itchy armpits

Question
Hi there, my chorkie (Chihuahua x yorkie)has itchy armpits.  The vet says it could be a number of things and I was hoping that maybe there were some things I could start with eliminating.  She scratches herself raw- almost looks like eczema.  I am not asking medical advice just more if there is a trait that chorkies have or if there is something obvious besides food that I need to get rid of in the house.  How often should I bathe her?  Could that be a factor?

Thanks
Lara

Answer
If the itching is caused by environmental allergies, bathing might help. But be careful that it isn't caused from the shampoo itself or something that the groomer is putting on the dog. When bathing the dog, rinse, rinse, rinse, and then rinse again. Some allergic dogs need to be bathed daily or wiped down frequently to keep the allergens at bay.

You could try a diet with a minimum list of ingredients, such as a duck or venison and potato diet, but without knowing exactly WHAT the dog is allergic to, it may not help.

I highly recommend that you get your dog to a veterinary dermatologist who can help you determine what is making your dog itchy. At least get a second opinion as your vet sounds like he is just dismissing your problem and not even trying to help you find an answer.

http://www.acvd.org/site/view/66076_FindaDermatologist.pml;jsessionid=1adgjbedjh... (Enlarge map for your area to see all names and addresses.)