Is your dog itching like crazy? There are many reasons why your dog is so itchy, most controllable and treatable. Here are some of the top reasons your pup won't stop scratching.
Fleas - Similar to bug bites or any kind of allergic reaction, flea bites can be extremely irritating for your pup. Most commonly found behind the back legs of your pup, tail base or rear end, flea bites can be found anywhere when there is an infestation. One single flea bite can cause itchy skin and irritation on your pup!
Their Diet- Just like you, what you eat can affect you in many ways! Your dogs itchy skin might be directly resulting from what they are eating. Some dogs are allergic to commonly used ingredients such as chicken, beef and dairy products. Allergies from dogs most commonly affect feet, face, armpits and belly areas. Always contact your vet if you have any concerns about food allergies!
Environmental - Let's face it, as the season change we all face allergies. That also includes you pup! Many allergic reactions stem from environmental triggers such as pollen, dust and mold. While it may be season, some dogs face this challenge year-round. Many allergic reactions stem from common environmental triggers, like pollens, mold spores, or dust mites. Environmental allergens can cause itch during certain seasons, or even year-round. If you notice your pup scratching, rubbing, and licking – or see skin changes like redness or hair loss – it might be due to an allergen in their environment.
Skin Infections - While not as common as the above mentioned reasons why your dog is so itchy, it is still one you should be aware of. Yeast and bacterial infections may cause extreme discomfort for your pup. Infected skin is often red and greasy and can have a distinct odor. Yeast typically affects areas of folded skin, like ears, neck, under the tail, and around or in between your dog’s toes. Bacterial infections can be found anywhere and are often the result of irritated or damaged skin from scratching.
So there are the most common answers to the question "why is my dog so itchy?". All of the above issues can cause a lot of discomfort for your pup should they be left untreated. And allowing your pup to lick or scratch may only make matters worst. Dogs tend to lick when they are itchy or in pain - so be sure to schedule an appointment with your vet to get to the root cause.
How do I treat my dogs itchy skin?
There are many options to treat your pups itchy skin, including some you can get online or at your local pet store! We always recommend talking to you vet first, of course.
The following treatment options are commonly available and may offer some relief but may not be the right option if your dog requires long-term treatment.
Over-the-counter shampoos and oils. Most topical treatments only provide temporary relief and don’t get to the root of the problem. Every dog’s skin is different, and if your dog has skin allergies, common ingredients in these over-the-counter products might actually make things worse.
Antihistamines. Studies have shown that antihistamines are often not effective at controlling itch from skin allergies because they don’t address the underlying cause. They can also make your dog uncomfortable, causing drowsiness, panting, or trembling.
Prescription steroids. Steroids prescribed by a veterinarian can be effective in reducing allergic dog itch, but they may come with their own unpleasant side effects. Dogs on prescription steroids often experience increased urination, thirst, and weight gain. They can also experience behavior shifts, such as increased aggression.
If you see your pet scratching repeatedly at any time of year, check in with your veterinarian or you can find a veterinary dermatologist.
HelloMutt.com Product Recommendation for Dry & Itchy Skin:
Sources: akc.org/h.myers/2021
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