Can dogs have eczema?

Question
I have a ShihTzu that is 12 years old. For many years he has had problems with his skin but this winter seems worse. He is continually scrathing to the point his fur is coming off. His skin is dry and red and now is sometimes bleeding. I have heard they can have allergies but to what? What can I do to help relieve his itichiness?He also has an ear problem. His ears need to be cleaned at least once a week and the skin on the inside of his ears has a buildup of something that looks almost waxy and is orange in color. Thanks for you help

Answer
Skin allergies and ear disease go together. Dogs can be allergic to a variety of things in the house, like dust mites and carpet molds, or things outside, like pollens, trees, flowers, insects and molds. The ear is composed of skin, so it will itch just like the rest of the body.  

This very likely is an allergy causing both problems, so my best recommendation is to let your vet look at the dog to be sure.  The ears need to be cleaned out and assessed as to the cause of the waxy, orange stuff there. The vet also needs to give something to stop the scratching to prevent the sores and skin infection.