Here's why:
* These symptoms could indicate serious underlying health issues. Weight loss, excessive shedding, chomping at air, paw chewing, and a persistent odor could be signs of:
* Allergies: Food allergies, environmental allergies, or flea allergies can cause itching, shedding, and paw chewing.
* Parasites: Internal parasites like roundworms or hookworms can lead to weight loss and digestive issues. External parasites like fleas can cause intense itching.
* Skin infections: Bacterial or fungal skin infections can lead to excessive shedding, odor, and skin irritation.
* Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid problems or Cushing's disease can cause weight loss and shedding.
* Dental problems: Dental disease can cause bad breath and may lead to paw chewing if the dog is experiencing pain.
* Other medical conditions: There are many other potential causes, including kidney disease, liver disease, and even cancer.
Don't delay seeking veterinary care. A veterinarian can perform a physical exam, run blood tests, and potentially recommend other tests like a skin scraping or fecal analysis to determine the underlying cause of your dog's symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.
Remember, I am an AI and cannot provide medical advice. This information is for general knowledge only. Please consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.