Chows can develop skin problems if not properly cared for.
According to K9 Web, chow chow skin problems are becoming more and more common. The causes of skin problems vary from dog to dog. Knowing the best way to care for, and treat, your chow's skin will help you keep her healthy and happy and also help you identify when medical intervention is necessary. Also, general skin care can help avoid costly vet bills and antibiotics by avoiding skin problems, such as hot spots.
Instructions
General Care
1. Use a rake comb and pin brush to thoroughly brush your chow. The rake comb is used to remove knots and loose hair from your chow's undercoat and the pin brush is used to remove mats and loose hair from the outer coat. Make sure to thoroughly remove all mats and debris from your dog's hair before proceeding.
2. Wet your dog's coat with water. Make sure you wet both the outer and undercoat.
3. Apply a dog shampoo to his hair. Use a dog shampoo and not one intended for humans since your dog's skin pH is different than yours. Rub the shampoo thoroughly into his coat avoiding his eyes.
4. Rinse the shampoo away completely.
5. Repeat step 3.
6. Use a rag to clean around his face and ears.
7. Rinse your dog again, taking extra care to remove all the soap. A little soap residue can irritate the skin causing him to develop hot spots. To ensure all the soap is rinsed off, rinse until the water is clear and then rinse him off an additional time.
8. Use a hair dryer to dry your dog's coat while you brush his coat to remove any new mats.
9. Repeat the bathing process at least once a month.
Hot Spots
10. Use hair clippers to remove any remaining hair from the infected area. This allows air to get to the infection. Air will help it dry and heal.
11. Use a surgical soap to clean the area. Surgical soaps can be purchased at your vet. Follow the package directions for proper cleaning procedures.
12. Towel dry the area. Use a dabbing motion and avoid rubbing the spot. Rubbing can cause pain and irritation to the area. Then allow it to air dry the rest of the way.
13. Apply any prescribed topical treatments. Your vet may recommend an antibiotic or steroid cream to treat the infection. Follow your vet's direction for application.
14. Place an Elizabethan collar around your chow's neck to keep her from further aggravating the area if necessary. The site needs to be left alone so that it can heal. If she insists on licking or chewing the spot, a collar can keep her from reaching it.
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