What is causing my Min-Pin's rash?

Question

My 14 month old Min-Pin (Miniature Pinscher) has had a bad rash on his back in the area around his tail for 2-3 months now. It feels bumpy like acne and it is bothering him. He is constantly l*****g at it. I've taken him to the vet twice now. Both times I was given medication (steroids) which have done nothing. The vet says it's probably an allergy but he doesn't seem to be able to solve the problem. I've spent nearly $400 with this vet so far and don't want to start the entire process over with a new vet.

I've switched his food twice this summer. First from a Beneful (grain based) to more expensive holistic meat based brands. The first made him sick so I switched to the second. I don't think it has anything to do with the foods though. His environment has not changed. Nor have his habits. He has no fleas and very little interaction to other dogs (an occasional playdate with a couple of friends dogs). It doesn't seem to be getting any worse, but unfortunately it also doesn't seem to be getting any better.

I'm running out of ideas and money trying to solve this problem. I've even given him a two week minor dosage of Benedryl to see if that would help. Nothing.

Any ideas? I'm desperate and I feel so bad for him.

Answer 1

It still might be a food allergy.  You've done great so far by getting him off the Beneful, but even a grain-free kibble could cause allergies if your dog is allergic to a meat like beef or chicken.

The best way to rule out food allergies is with a raw diet, because you feed only one thing at a time.  With dry food, that list of ingredients is so long it's nearly impossible to determine which part is causing the reaction.  If a raw diet is something you'd like to try, there are lots of websites with more info on how to get started.

http://www.rawlearning.com/rawfaq.html

http://www.rawfeddogs.net/

Also take a look at this article on pet itching.  You might find something here that sounds like what your dog has.

http://www.thepetcenter.com/gen/itch.htm...

Answer 2

what you are describing is a hot spot and can be attributed to allergies or even fleas. I have a couple that go through this every year and to help eliminate much of the problem I add omega 3 fish oil to their food. In one, as it is allergies I give him benadryl to counter the itching. In the Miniature Pinscher you do not bath regularly. The breed is prone to dry skin issues which can also in fact create this problem. Bathing should be done no more than 4 to 5 times a year. If dirty, use a baby wipe to clean down the coat. Usually a cordisone injection will alleviate much of the skin irritation which in turn alleviates the need to itch as it will generally de-sensitize the skin. You can also try an aloe based regenerating lotion. Light rubbing in the area can in many cases eases the skin discomfort. It is though most likely allergies and once the season changes you should see a change in him.  

Answer 3

Alias right.. about the food... wait was that her name? LOL... oopsie. Also try medicaided shampoo and a daily skin and coat suppliment wouldnt hurt. I recomment Linatone Plus for Skin And Coat this suppliment has plenty of fatty acids that your dogs skin needs. I have a pug that has this type of rash but its because of the heat. The shampoo use DermCare Anti Itch Shampoo. Hope this helps. PS change the food and give her the supplements.