Why is my dog itching, chewing, and has a skin infection on his back?
Poor Louis! There are a number of things that can cause excessive itching and chewing of the skin like this. Some common possibilities would include allergies, fleas, a bacterial or fungal skin infection, or skin mites (mange). If there is a focal area that is moist and looks infected, this may be what's called a "hot spot", which is a bacterial skin infection that is quite painful and itchy.
It sounds like Louis will likely need prescription medication such as a steroid and antibiotics to treat this problem, as well as possibly some skin testing to determine what caused the infection, so I would recommend taking him to the vet today for an exam. Your vet can do some simple skin tests if needed to help diagnose the problem and get him started on appropriate medication to treat it. In the meantime, I would also suggest placing an e-collar (plastic cone) on Louis to prevent him from continuing to chew at the area and make things worse until you are able to see the vet.
Updated on September 23, 2025