Perhaps the most common causes include fleas (which could be present even if you aren't seeing them) and diet. Dogs that aren't eating a high-quality food, or a diet that is not well-matched to their needs, will often develop a dull, dry, flaky coat.
Luckily, there are several home remedies to relieve your dog's itchy skin. Not every cause of itchiness requires a prescription medication or treatment. Colloidal oatmeal baths, fish oil, and baking soda are among the items you can use for home remedies.
Your dog's skin needs some moisture to maintain its elasticity and resilience, and really dry air can cause it to lose that moisture. If you notice that your dog is mildly itchy with some skin flaking during the winter, or if you live in an arid climate, try using a humidifier in your home.
Compulsive chewing or licking can also be a response to orthopedic problems, including arthritis and hip dysplasia. Parasites. Among the most common causes for compulsive dog licking, chewing, or scratching behaviors are fleas, ticks, and mites.
If your dog is itching but doesn't have fleas, there are a number of other things that could be going on, including, allergies, parasites, and infections. Symptoms and treatment for each of these conditions vary but treatment ultimately starts with a consultation with a vet.
Skin conditions in dogs and cats can be caused by nutritional deficiency or due to adverse reactions to food. The most common deficiencies are to zinc, vitamin A and polyunsaturated acids. Adverse reactions may be due to toxins within the diet or due to immunological or allergic reactions to the food.
Look for Omega-3s
If you want your pup to look and feel good, Omega-3s are the way to go. For this reason, the best diet for itchy dogs often includes fatty fish, such as sardines, or leafy greens. You may also be able to ease your dog's itchiness with the right supplements added to your dog's food.
Yes, eggs are good for dogs with itchy skin. In fact, they are a very nutritious treat for your dog. Eggs are a source of protein that is full of fatty acids that work to keep your dog's skin and coat healthy. It is also full of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A and vitamin B, iron, selenium and folate.
If they're scratching, biting, or chewing themselves excessively you might suspect they have mites, and take a closer look. Your vet, however, is the best person to diagnose mites in your dog. They will be able to tell what kind of mites your dog has, and how they should be treated.
Humans use pure shea butter to soften dry, cracked elbows and heels—and it works just as well on dry dog skin. It's totally dog-safe when applied topically in small amounts. Use shea butter to soothe dry paws, noses, elbows, and other dry patches. You can moisturize your hands and your dog's paws at the same time.
For many dogs, the answer is yes. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the fatty acids in coconut oil can be beneficial for dogs, whether you feed it to your pet or apply it topically.
The best supplement for dogs with skin allergies will be usually something that helps relieve itchy, dry or irritated skin. Fish oil supplements are commonly recommended for dogs with skin allergies, and supplements containing coconut oil, quercetin and yucca are popular, as well.
Treatment of inflammatory skin disease
A study was performed on 16 dogs with itchy skin. Compared to the placebo group, those receiving fish oil demonstrated significant improvement (less itching, less self-trauma, and improved hair coat)2.
Baking soda can work wonders! It has a soothing effect due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it acts as an acid neutralizer and creates a more basic pH that truly helps to relieve your dog's itching. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a little water to make a paste.
Although there are a number of other more likely causes of itchiness in your dog, intestinal worms could be one of the potential causes. Behaviours that could link to itchiness caused by the presence of worms include any scratching of the rear end or rubbing or dragging their bottom on the ground.
Clemastine (Tavist-1, Antihist-1): 0.02mg per pound (one 1.34mg tablet per 65lb dog) twice daily. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): 1mg per pound (one 25mg tablet for a 25lb dog) twice daily. May be sedating – may be beneficial to use an night to aid sleeping.
Flea allergy dermatitis, seasonal allergies or atopy, food allergies, contact dermatitis (e.g., soaps and perfumes), and sarcoptic mange (mites) are some of the most common causes of pruritus in dogs. "Pruritus due to skin disease is one of the most common reasons dog owners seek veterinary care."
You can safely give Zyrtec to your dog up to 20 mg per day.
It should only be administered orally. You can see a quick overview of dosages here: 5 Ibs: 2.5 mg or ½ of a 5 mg tablet. 10 Ibs: 5 mg or 5 mg tablet.
Plain Sugar-Free Yogurt: Feeding your dog plain yogurt might also offer relief from itchy skin. If your pup happens to have a food allergy, then plain yogurt can help soothe their digestive system and stem the scratching.