Losing such great amounts of hair and repeated hot spots and sores sounds like a 'health problem' to me. With her signalment (middle-aged female Golden) thyroid levels should definitely be assessed - it's easy and if found low supplementation can make a world of difference. Was the diet change recommended by the dermatologist? How long was each diet fed? Each should be fed for at least 2-3 months to properly assess effects. All treats and biscuits also need to be excluded. Any other dietary support given like omega3 fatty acid supplements such as salmon oil? Allergy testing can be done by either a serum assay or by intradermal testing. Both foods and environmental allergens can be tested for. This can really help in selecting a diet without having to go thru various food trials. If strong environmental allergies are found (such as to grasses, pollens, trees, etc) a specific hyposensitization shot can be formulated and given in a series. This may have to continued for the life of your dog. Sometimes it is the only way to give relief after nothing else works. Try to avoid long term steroid use as this can create a whole new set of problems.

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Holistic Wellness Care