Recheck exams are crucial because they help ensure that your dog's condition has been fully treated and that no underlying issues remain unaddressed. Without a recheck, there's a possibility that your dog may not fully recover and may require additional courses of antibiotics or other treatments, which can lead to antibiotic resistance.

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination of your dog's skin, from nose to tail, and will look at the ears, belly, and all other areas. They will also ask for your dog's medical history, including how long the issue has been going on, any correlations with specific times of the year, and what medications your dog has been on.

Maintaining a clean environment and keeping your dog on flea, tick, and mosquito prevention can help keep their skin healthy. It's also recommended to bathe your dog no more than once a week, unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian. Ideally, a bath every two to four weeks is healthier for your dog's skin.

If you notice no improvement in your dog's skin condition after a day or two, or if the area worsens, it's time to consult your veterinarian.

Minor issues like mild insect bites or scratches may resolve on their own. However, skin infections, insect-related problems, and metabolic issues like thyroid problems need to be addressed by a veterinarian.

For the majority of skin conditions, a general veterinarian should be able to guide you towards a diagnosis and treatment. However, some more complex conditions might require the help of a specialist. Your regular veterinarian can help you get started on the right track.

Dog dermatology is the study of anything related to a dog's skin, ranging from skin masses and infections to other conditions affecting the skin.