Itching is a common problem for dogs. There are many different causes of itching in dogs, so it is important to figure out the underlying cause of your dog’s itchiness before treating it.
If his itchiness is due to allergies, you will need to identify and avoid the allergens that are causing the problem. If his itchiness is due to a skin condition like hot spots or eczema, you will need to talk to your veterinarian about the best course of treatment.
- Common Reasons for Dog’s itching
- 1. Chamomile and Herbal Tea Soaks
- 2. Apple Cider Vinegar
- 3. Oatmeal Baths
- 4. Coconut Oil
- 5. Vitamin E Oil
- 6. Yogurt
- 7. Baking Soda
- 8. A Nutritious Diet
- 9. Aloe Vera
- 10. See the Vet
Common Reasons for Dog’s itching
Itching skin in dogs can occur for a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:
1. Food Allergies
One of the most common reasons for itching is food allergies. A food allergy may cause your dog’s scratch. Some dogs are allergic to typical dog food ingredients like beef, poultry, and milk. Food allergies in dogs can cause itching around the paws, cheeks, armpits, and tummy.
2. Environmental Dermatitis
This is a type of skin irritation caused by contact with environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, grassy areas, cleaning products, or even shampoos with harsh chemicals.
If you notice your dog itching after being in contact with a certain substance, it’s likely they are allergic to it.
3. Nutritional Dermatitis
This is a skin condition that can be caused by a lack of certain nutrients in your dog’s diet. It is often seen in puppies who are not getting enough of the right nutrients, but it can also affect adult dogs.
If you notice your dog’s skin is dry, flaky, or they are losing hair, it could be a sign of nutritional dermatitis.
Hives can be caused by a variety of factors, such as insect bites or drugs. Symptoms include a raised bulge that causes the dog’s fur to protrude. The bumps are often itchy and may be accompanied by swelling.
Another common cause of itching is bitten by fleas. Fleas are small, wingless insects that live off the blood of animals. If your dog has fleas, they will likely be scratching a lot as the fleas bite and feed on their blood. In addition to causing itchiness, fleas can also lead to hair loss, hot spots, and anemia.
If your dog has been bitten by other insect bites, like a mosquito, or tick, they may also scratch the area excessively as it heals. Insect bites can also lead to hot spots, hair loss, and scabs.
6. Dry Skin
Dry skin can also be a contributing factor to itching. Dogs with dry skin may have flaky patches of skin or dandruff. Dry skin is often the result of a lack of moisture in the air, so it’s more common in winter months or in arid climates.
Rashes can also cause itching. Rashes can be caused by allergies, infection, or contact with irritants like poison ivy. If your dog has a rash, it will likely be red, inflamed, and uncomfortable.
Once you have figured out the cause of your dog’s itchiness, you can try one or more of the home remedies listed below to see which ones work best for your dog.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your veterinarian. He or she can help you determine the cause of your dog’s itchiness and recommend the best course of treatment.
If your dog’s itching is severe or persists despite home treatment, be sure to take him to see the vet for further evaluation and treatment.
1. Chamomile and Herbal Tea Soaks
Chamomile has long been a popular herbal remedy for humans, and it can work wonders for dogs as well. Chamomile tea soothes the skin and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. This can be very helpful if your dog is experiencing itchy, inflamed skin.
To make a chamomile tea soak, steep two chamomile tea bags in boiling water for 10 minutes. Allow the tea to cool, then put your dog in a bathtub or sink and pour the tea over him. Let him soak for 10-15 minutes, then rinse him off with warm water.
You can also add a few other soothing herbs to the chamomile tea, such as lavender or calendula.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural, safe moisturizer for dry, irritated skin. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it an excellent treatment for poison ivy, but it should not be used on raw or unprotected skin.
To use apple cider vinegar to relieve your dog’s itching, mix one part vinegar with one part water and apply it to his skin with a cotton ball. You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to the mixture to help soothe your dog’s skin.
3. Oatmeal Baths
Oatmeal is another popular remedy for itchy, dry skin. Oatmeal baths can help to relieve the itchiness and inflammation associated with conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
You can grind plain oatmeal to powder to use in your dog’s warm bath. It will take 10 to 15 minutes for the oatmeal to work its magic, so let your dog soak for at least that long. You can also add a cup of plain yogurt to the bath to help moisturize your dog’s skin.
After the bath, be sure to rinse your dog off well and towel him dry. You may want to apply a hypoallergenic lotion or cream to his skin to further soothe and protect it.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural, effective treatment for many skin conditions in dogs. It can help to relieve the itchiness and irritation associated with allergies, hot spots, and dry skin.
Coconut oil can also be used as a preventive measure. If your dog is prone to allergies or other skin problems, you can rub coconut oil into his coat on a regular basis to help keep his skin healthy and hydrated.
5. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is a natural antioxidant that can help to protect your dog’s skin from damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritated skin. You can apply vitamin E oil to the affected areas of the skin.
Plain yogurt is another simple, effective remedy for itchy skin. The probiotics in yogurt can help to improve your dog’s skin health, and the coolness of the yogurt can help to soothe irritation.
You can put yogurt on the affected areas of his skin or add a few tablespoons of plain yogurt to your dog’s food to help improve his skin health from the inside out.
7. Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used to relieve itching on dogs. It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help to soothe the skin and reduce irritation.
To use baking soda for your dog’s itching, simply mix it with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas of your dog’s skin and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse the paste off with warm water and towel your dog dry.
You can do this treatment once or twice a day as needed.
8. A Nutritious Diet
Feeding your dog a nutritious diet is one of the best things you can do to keep his skin healthy and help relieve his itching. Dogs with allergies or other skin problems may benefit from a food that is specifically designed for sensitive skin.
You should also make sure that your dog is getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in his diet, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve your dog’s skin health. Just be sure not to overdo it, as too much omega-3 can cause problems like diarrhea and vomiting.
Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish oil supplements or in certain types of food, such as flaxseed oil.
9. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural plant that has many healing properties. It can be very helpful in treating itchy, dry skin. You can directly apply aloe vera to your dog’s affected areas. You can also add a few drops of aloe vera juice to his food or water.
10. See the Vet
If your dog’s itching is severe, or if he has any other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or discharge from his skin, it is important to take him to see the vet. These could be signs of a more serious condition that will require medical treatment.
Your vet may recommend a course of antibiotics if your dog has a bacterial skin infection. He may also prescribe a medicated shampoo or cream to help relieve the itching and inflammation associated with allergies or other skin conditions. In severe cases, your vet may recommend corticosteroid injections or oral steroids to help control the symptoms.