Why is my dog’s skin red and greasy in places? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
Red, greasy patches on a dog’s skin are often seen with seborrhoea, but there are several possible reasons for it. It can happen on its own, or alongside another skin issue such as allergies, infection or an underlying health problem. The good news is that there are a few simple things you can check at home before deciding what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Check where the redness and greasiness are showing up. Some dogs get it around the ears, armpits, tummy, paws or skin folds.
2. Look for other changes such as flaking, a waxy feel, dandruff, an unusual smell, scabs, discharge or hair loss.
3. Notice whether your dog is itchy, licking, rubbing or scratching more than usual.
4. Think about any recent changes in food, treats, shampoo, grooming products, bedding or cleaning products.
5. Check whether the skin feels warm, sore or swollen, which can suggest irritation or infection alongside the oiliness.
6. Consider your dog’s age and history. Long-term skin problems, repeated ear issues or recurring odour can sometimes point to an ongoing pattern rather than a one-off flare-up.
7. Note how quickly it has appeared and whether it is spreading or staying in one area.
Common Causes
Seborrhoea is one common reason for skin that looks red, greasy or flaky. It describes an abnormal skin and coat condition rather than a single cause, so it often needs a closer look at what’s happening alongside it.
Allergies are another frequent cause, especially if the skin is itchy as well as greasy. This can include food-related allergies or reactions to things in the environment.
Skin infection can also make the skin look red, oily or smelly. Yeast or bacteria may build up, particularly in warm, damp areas or skin folds.
Less commonly, hormone problems or other internal health issues can affect the skin and coat. These are not something you can confirm at home, but they may be considered if the problem keeps returning or affects larger areas.
What To Do
Keep the area clean and avoid over-washing, as too much bathing can sometimes make skin more irritated. If you do bathe your dog, use a mild dog-safe shampoo and make sure the coat is rinsed and dried properly.
Watch for any pattern to the flare-up. A simple note of when it happens, what it looks like and whether your dog is itchy can be very helpful if you need to speak to a vet later.
Try to keep bedding clean and dry, and avoid switching multiple grooming products at once. If your dog has skin folds, gently checking and drying them can sometimes reduce build-up of moisture and grease.
If the skin stays red and greasy, keeps coming back, or your dog seems uncomfortable, it’s sensible to book a vet appointment. Skin problems are often easier to manage when the underlying cause is identified early.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the skin is very sore, spreading, smelly, scabby or oozing, or if your dog seems unwell. You should also get advice if the problem keeps returning, is not improving with simple care, or if there is hair loss, marked itchiness or ear trouble alongside it.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s coat or skin is looking greasy or uncomfortable, a gentle grooming and washing routine may help support day-to-day care. The arlo.® Pet Care collection can be useful for keeping on top of regular coat and skin hygiene.
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Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.