The most common areas of irritation for allergic dogs are around the back and tail, the abdomen, and the legs and paws.
Chronic cases of itching might result in the thickening and roughening of the skin so that it looks like elephant hide. Hot spots are often the symptom of allergies to fleas, foods, grass, mold or other environmental substances. There may be more complicated underlying conditions such as low thyroid (hypothyroidism) levels or Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism). Secondary bacterial and yeast (malassezia) infections are not uncommon and will require specially tailored treatment. [1] X Research source
Dogs are usually itchy due to an underlying allergy. If you find that their itching is only seasonal, meaning they’re only itchy during certain seasons of the year, then that fits within environmental allergy. However, if your dog is itchy all year round, then that means it could be food or environmental allergies.
Check your dog’s ears for signs of scratching, redness, blood, or dirt. See if their belly, groin, or the base of their tail has red bumps. One way to check for fleas is to stand your dog over a white surface, such as paper towels or pieces of paper, then comb their coat. Flea feces will fall out when you comb the dog and it will be more visible on the white paper.
Sarcoptic mange is contagious and can be transmitted to people and other dogs very easily. Your veterinarian can diagnose sarcoptic mange by collecting skin scrapings from your dog.
It is sometimes called “walking dandruff” because the mite pushes up scales of skin as it travels, making it appear as though the scales are moving. You might be able to see the mite, which is yellow.
Other signs of lice include hair loss (especially around the neck, ears, shoulder, groin, and anus); a rough, dry, or matted coat; small wounds or infections; tapeworms or other parasites that can be spread by lice; and even anemia in severe cases or in small dogs.
Demodectic mange is not very contagious and people cannot contract it. It is generally passed on to nursing puppies by the mother. [9] X Research source A predisposition for this skin problem may be inherited. It is not uncommon for the puppies to have Demodex if their parents also had Demodex at some point in their lives. [10] X Research source
Some pets with minor infections can be treated topically, whereas other animals will need oral anti-fungal medication. Treatment of ringworm will also include disinfecting your home. It may take months to control. [11] X Research source
Alopecia, or hair loss, can be brought on by low thyroid (hypothyroid) conditions and is not typically itchy. Low-thyroid dogs tend to have more skin issues than normal-thyroid dogs. [12] X Research source Dogs with Cushing’s disease will drink a lot of water and want to eat all the time. You may notice that the dog’s fur is thinner and has less undercoat. The dog’s belly may even be nearly bald and the skin looks thinner too.
Use prescribed medication according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Medication is used to control the itching and start the healing process.
Flea control for your dog, all other pets in the household and the immediate environment must be implemented and continued on a monthly basis.
Scabies can easily spread to other animals and humans. Steps must be taken to eradicate the infestation in the dog’s entire environment as well as on the dog and on any other pets that may be exposed to the infestation. [20] X Research source
Over-the-counter flea shampoos such as medicated or coal tar shampoo risk further irritating open skin wounds. Consult with your veterinarian before trying any over-the-counter treatment on your dog. Bathing is good for itchy skin, but don’t use human shampoo. A mild oatmeal-based shampoo specially formulated for dogs may temporarily decrease itching. If your dog’s skin is abraded or infected, do not use any shampoo or topical treatment without talking to your veterinarian. You may make the problem worse by using an inappropriate product. Don’t over-wash your dog. A bath once a month is all most healthy dogs really need, and some dogs need even less frequent bathing. Bathing your dog removes oils from the skin. If your veterinarian prescribes a special shampoo, she will discuss with you the recommended bathing frequency for your pet’s condition. Also, bathing is only helpful if the allergic reaction is due to something that the skin was in contact with. Since allergic skin reactions can be manifestations of that the dog ingested, bathing might not do anything.
Steroids do have side effects and need to be used carefully. Long-term use can lead to liver or adrenal gland problems. [21] X Research source [22] X Research source
No single product works for every dog, so an “antihistamine trial” will need to be started to find out which medication helps your pet the most. Be aware that antihistamines may not help the super itchy dog, but they are often used after steroids have taken care of the initial problem so that you continue to manage the allergy symptoms.
Immunotherapy injections may be suggested by your veterinarian if allergies are causing your dog’s itchiness.
Home remedies such as turpentine, petroleum jelly, mouthwash or vinegar should also be avoided. However, benign topical treatments such as green tea rinses and coconut oil may be effective for mild cases of dry skin with no signs of infection. Your efforts to help your pet may result in making the problem worse for both you and your pet.
If you feed processed foods, look at the ingredient list on your dog’s food. Check to make sure that protein is the first ingredient, not a carbohydrate. Essential fatty acids are good for healthy skin and coat and should be included on the ingredient list. [27] X Research source [28] X Research source
Omega fatty acids help support the skin barrier, moisturizing the skin. They’re anti-inflammatory and can also be anti-itchiness. Follow the product directions or your veterinarian’s instructions for dosage information.
For example, if your pet has been eating lamb and rice dog food with treats made of beef and wheat, the new diet cannot contain any of those ingredients. The food elimination trial will typically last for 2-3 months. You need to adhere to the strict diet (including treats) in order to get the best information from your experiment. It may take a few rounds of this food elimination diet to determine which foods your dog is sensitive to. You may be able to get your dog’s food at a pet store, but often a special diet from your veterinarian may be needed to manage a pet’s food allergy. [31] X Research source Once a diet has been found, then you can start challenging the body with small amounts of one ingredient at a time to see if your dog starts itching again after introducing the additional ingredient.
