Have you noticed that your dog has been scratching, chewing, or licking their fur more than usual? While occasional itching can often be harmless, frequent scratching may indicate something is irritating your pup’s skin. The good news is that many causes of itchy skin are manageable once you identify the source.
In this post, we provide tips for how you can manage your dog’s itchy skin, including:
WHAT COULD BE CAUSING YOUR DOG’S ITCHY SKIN?
There can be several factors causing your pup to itch, so it is always recommended to set up an appointment with your vet to get to the bottom of it. However, you can do some investigating on your own to help determine what you think might be the cause, especially if you can notice a pattern around when your dog starts scratching.
Some common causes of itchy skin for dogs include:
- Seasonal allergies caused by grass, mold, pollen, etc.
- Fleas or ticks
- Dry skin
- Skin infections caused by bacteria or yeast
- Dermatitis from environmental irritants
- Food sensitivities or allergic reactions
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN YOUR DOG STARTS SCRATCHING
If your pup starts itching out of nowhere or develops red spots, dry patches, thinning fur, bald spots, bad odor, or signs of an infection, it may be a sign of a more serious issue that needs to be evaluated by your vet. Take note of where your dog is scratching the most as that may provide clues for your vet. If your dog is chewing on their paws, they may have seasonal allergies related to contact with grass or pollen. If you dog is scratching their ears mostly, your vet may find a yeast infection or allergies as the diagnosis.
USE GENTLE SHAMPOO PRODUCTS FOR DOGS WITH SENSITIVE OR ITCHY SKIN
If your pup experiences mild, general itchiness, a gentle shampoo formulated specifically for dogs can help ease symptoms. Bathing them can help remove irritants from their coat, like pollen or dirt, and prevent further irritation by protecting their skin barrier.
DOG SPA PRODUCTS AT THE DOGTOPIA SHOP
We have several options available for itchy pups, including:
- Aloe & Oatmeal Soothing Dog Shampoo & Conditioner: This hypoallergenic duo can help restore natural moisture and relieve itchy skin.
- Keto Dog Medicated Shampoo: Using ketoconazole and chlorhexidine gluconate, this shampoo is formulated to provide a therapeutic bath to help manage skin problems caused by bacteria, dermatitis, seborrhea, yeast, and fungi.
- Keto-Dog Foam Aloe Vera: This leave-on foam helps manage hot spots and skin folds, yeast overgrowth, bacterial dermatitis, and more.
SUPPORT YOUR DOG’S SKIN THROUGH NUTRITION
A complete and balanced diet is the foundation of healthy skin. Adding certain foods and supplements into your dog’s diet can be one way to help relieve itchy skin from the inside out. For example, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and salmon, can help support skin health and reduce inflammation. Other foods high in antioxidants, such as carrots, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin, can also help promote skin health.
Before introducing any new food item or supplement, it is best to get the green light from your vet, as some supplements could cause stomach upset if not properly managed.
REGULARLY CLEAN YOUR DOG’S BELONGINGS
Sometimes environmental triggers, such as dust in your pup’s environment, can cause itching. It is recommended to wash their beds and blankets weekly, but stains or odors may require more frequent washing. Pro tip: if your dog is safe around blankets, add a light weight blanket topper on your dog’s bed that can be washed more frequently and easier than a dog bed cover.
MAINTAIN DAILY HYGIENE
Keeping your dog’s skin clean between baths can help eliminate built-up dirt and irritants, such as pollen, that accumulate from outdoor activities. Dog-safe grooming wipes are a convenient option for use after a walk or playtime outside.
Pay extra close attention to wiping your pup’s paws, legs, belly, and face after spending time outdoors, as these areas often come in contact with environmental allergens that could cause itchiness.
Dogtopia Shop’s Keto Dog Medicated Wipes provide therapeutic relief for dogs with bacterial dermatitis, seborrhea, yeast, or fungi on their skin, while our Cleansing Facial Wipes and Gentle Ear Wipes are great options for targeting specific areas.
AVOID THESE COMMON MISTAKES
- Don’t use human shampoos, as they are more likely to disrupt your dog’s skin barrier.
- Avoid giving human allergy mediations unless directed by your veterinarian.
- Skin conditions can worsen by bathing too frequently.
- Never ignore persistent itching, especially if your dog is creating wounds.
SCHEDULE REGULAR GROOMING SESSIONS AT THE DOGTOPIA SPA
Maintaining your dog’s hygiene routine is crucial, especially because it can help catch signs of skin issues early. At Dogtopia, our team of experts provides a range of treatments to keep your pup looking and feeling their best. Check out our spa page for more details, and reach out to your local Dogtopia today to learn more.
This blog was reviewed/edited by Dogtopia’s Senior Director of Health & Safety Lorraine Rhoads, an experienced animal biologist and environmental scientist.
