Min Pin Skin Disease?

My mother has a 9 year old Min Pin. About 2 or 3 years ago he started getting very itchy and was licking himself. He's lost his hair on his feet and his tail. His skin is also gray and tough in these areas; different from everywhere else on his body. He smells pretty bad as well. He has been to the vet numerous times and has been treated for just about everything he, my mom or I can think of. I feel so bad for the little guy because the "creeping crud" has found its way into his ears and it bothers him. I was just wondering if anyone has ever seen this before and what it is. As I've said he has been on numerous medicines, steroids, creams, foods, etc. Nothing seems to help. Thanks...

Min Pin Skin Disease?

Some minpins are the victim of "bad breeding" which can cause this genetic skin condition. It sounds like your vet hasn't been able to help you much. Have you considered a second opinion? There are treatments-they don't cure, but can certainly lessen the effects of the condition. There is a website called veterinary partner that you may want to check out. It has a wealth of information about all kinds of conditions and the treatments for them. Good luck-poor pin!

Min Pin Skin Disease?

Has he been checked for mites? It really sounds like dermodectic mange. The treatment is difficult. There really is not a completely effective treatment for the disease. As long as he isn't suffering, just do what you can and enjoy him.

I would suggest a different vet too for a second opinion. Perhaps the vet did not check for this form of mange.

Min Pin Skin Disease?

Have you had a thyroid panel done? That would be my first thought . . . that or a food allergy -- they often manifest in skin and ear problems. I had a friend whose dog was allergic to chicken products of any sort (and many times they have you switch to a chicken based diet).

I like the Hunde n Flocken foods for my MinPins -- they have a diet that is Bison/Salmon for the protein source and my dogs do very well on it.