Mouth sores on my dog

Question
Hi Doctor and thanks for your time. I took my dog to my regular vet because he had sores on his mouth (lips) and has been itching constantly. My vet said he was allergic to his plastic food bowls and determined that he did not have fleas and sent us home with a 10 day antibiotic. He really didnt check him over very good. Now my dog still has mouth sores and is chewing his paws and his nails are turning black (weird) and scratching terribly. I am going to a new vet tomorrow but would like your opinion as well. Also, any suggestions of what I should have the vet to look for and good questions to ask.
Thanks tons, Janet

Answer
Antibiotics do not treat allergies.  Often dogs with allergies will have mouth and lip lesions. Foot licking and face rubbing are common signs. Your vet may want to use some steroids to try and reduce the inflammation associated with the allergies. In addition, Omega3 fatty acids in the diet (found in fish oils) helps as does frequent bathing to remove allergens from the skin.