An itchy dog is a common reason for owners to visit the vets. It could be stressful to see your dog uncomfortable and constantly itching, which can be more prevalent in summer months, or during the warmer weather.
If you find yourself asking the question, why my dog is itchy, we have highlighted the common signs, reasons and tips to help reduce the itch.
Common signs of an itchy dog include:
- They may nibble at their skin
- Licking at their paws
- They could rub their face or body on furniture
- They may have bald patches, red skin or scabs
Reasons for itchy skin on dogs
Dogs with dry skin could continually itch and cause stress for their owners. As an owner you want to understand the cause of your pet’s dry, itchy skin. There are a number of factors that can cause your dog to itch. We highlight some of the most common reasons below:
Allergies
All year round allergens include household dust mites, household chemicals, air fresheners and washing powder, which can cause your dog to itch. However, allergens such as pollen and grass are prevalent at certain times of the year. During warmer months in the summer, when your dog spends more time outside could be when you notice your dog itching more than usual.
Diet
Another reason for your dog’s itchy skin could be their diet. Dog food allergies, such as wheat, beef and soya are responsible for a significant number of cases of skin allergies in dogs. Often dogs unwittingly receive an unnatural diet, which is too high in Omega-6 fatty acids derived from high levels of cereals and vegetable proteins. Special Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA from refined fish oil are particularly important to counteract the Omega-6 imbalance.
Pests
Fleas and mites are a common cause of itchy skin on dogs. Even the cleanest of dogs can pick up fleas, so it’s important to keep up-to-date with treatment to help keep them at bay. This not only includes treating your pet but also areas in your home, such as furnishing and dog bedding.
Itchy dog skin relief – what can you do?
There are a number of things you can do to help reduce the itch and help your dog to feel more comfortable. These include:
Regular grooming
This will help to remove loose hairs, keep your dog’s coat free from dirt and distribute natural skin oils, which help to make their coat shiny. Try not to groom them more than once a week, as this could lead to irritation on the skin.
Don’t over bathe your dog
This can lead to dry and sensitive skin. Be sure to only use animal specific shampoos, as human shampoo could irritate their skin.
Protect your dog from the sun
Like humans, overexposure to the sun is bad for your pet’s skin. Dogs with light skin and short or thin hair are more susceptible to sensitive skin caused from the sun. Try to limit the amount of time your dog spends in the sun and watch for signs of burning.
Food
Be sure to feed your dog a good quality diet. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, oils and vitamins can support healthy skin.
Parasite control
One of the most common causes of skin complaints is parasites and fleas. Prevention is always the best treatment for flea control. Be sure to treat you dog, consult your vet for the best product to treat your pet.
Fluids
A constant supply of water is important to keep your pet cool and hydrated, like us, your dog requires water to maintain healthy skin.
Reduce stress
Stress in dogs and cats can lead to over grooming. Understand what is causing your pet to become stressed and try to reduce this, if possible.
Keep your home and their bed clean
Regularly clean, provide fresh bedding and reduce dust in your home. Hoovering on a regular basis, at least twice a week will help to get rid of any excess dust.
Use supplements for itchy dogs and cats
Using a natural supplement for your itchy dog will help to calm their sensitive skin. Nutramega contains high quality Omega-3 fatty acids, biotin and Vitamin E, which naturally calm sensitive skin, soothe dry, flaky skin and reduce itching and scratching.