Older Golden Retriever With Recurring Oozing Sores

Repeated bouts of pimples, oozing sores and chewing that clear up with antibiotics usually mean a skin infection that keeps coming back because something underneath isn't controlled. In dogs this is most often an allergy, but in an older dog your vet may also check for a hormone problem such as low thyroid.

Medicated antiseptic shampoos and sprays are now the first choice for surface skin infections and can reduce how often antibiotics are needed, so a regular topical routine is a good step. Whether it keeps working depends on finding the trigger. A strict prescription elimination diet for at least 8 weeks is the only reliable test for food allergy, and a diet with many proteins, treats and supplements makes that hard to judge.

If antibiotics are needed again, ask about a bacterial culture so the right one is chosen.

See hot spots on dogs, skin rashes in dogs and dog allergies.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.