Being a pet owner can be an exciting experience, so you will always want the best for your furry friend. As such, you will quickly notice any strange behavior in your dog and want to discover the problem. Whenever your pet is uncomfortable, you also experience a feeling of anxiety and will perhaps try to find some homemade remedies to help ease the discomfort. The feeling is no different when you see your dog has excessive itching, which can lead to restless behavior in your favorite pet. Are you wondering, “Why does my dog itch so much?” Reach out to Suzie's for help; we’re always happy to answer your questions!
Let’s explore various reasons why your dog may itch so much and offer safe remedies that will help ease the discomfort.
So, why does my dog itch so much? Read on to learn more.
Causes of Dog Itching
There could be different underlying reasons for your dog's itching, such as skin conditions or environmental allergies. Some of the major causes include:
Allergic Dermatitis
Allergic dermatitis has been recorded as one of the leading causes of itching in dogs. A recent survey showed that most pet owners filed insurance claims related to allergic dermatitis. This condition is caused by airborne substances such as pollen or dust and may also occur when your dog ingests certain foods.
Allergic dermatitis may be triggered by:
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Food Allergies
Certain foods may trigger allergic reactions in your dog, resulting in itching. It may occur when your dog ingests certain foods or substances that trigger an allergic reaction. It’s always best to monitor how your dog reacts to their food, especially if you give them a different brand than they usually eat.
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Seasonal Allergies
As your dog adapts to a new season, sudden changes may trigger an allergic reaction. Allergens in the air, such as pollen, mold, and dust, may cause an itchy feeling that makes your dog uncomfortable.
Flea Allergy
Some dogs are sensitive to flea bites and may develop skin irritation or inflammation. When fleas bite your dog, they suck blood, and the contact is what triggers the sensitivity, which in turn causes an itchy sensation.
Sarcoptic Mange
Sarcoptic Mange or scabies in dogs may be the cause. This contagious skin infection is caused by spider mites hiding beneath your dog's hair follicles. It can be transmitted between animals or from your pet to humans, so you need to contact your veterinarian if you suspect mites could be the reason your dog is itchy.
Whether you think your dog has an allergic reaction to food substances or flea bites, it is important to seek professional help from your vet so you can get the most appropriate treatment option. Lab tests may be necessary to ascertain the exact cause of the itching.
What Is Severe Itching In Dogs?
If your dog has inflamed skin that appears red, it could be an indication of severe itching. Other signs of severe itching include:
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Bleeding due to the constant scratching
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Hair loss
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Crusting
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Scales on the skin
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Red ears
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Constant biting, licking or scratching of some body parts
If you notice any or a combination of these signs, consider visiting a veterinarian as soon as possible.
How to Treat Your Dog's Itchy Skin
While treating your dog's itchy skin may seem daunting, determining the exact cause of itching makes it much more manageable. For severe itching, you need to visit a professional veterinarian who will examine your dog and perform any necessary tests to help determine the cause.
Over-the-counter drugs such as antihistamines may offer relief from irritation and reduce inflammation. Consider using over-the-counter shampoos and oils to soothe your dog's irritated skin. There are also trusted CBD products that offer a therapeutic intervention that addresses inflammation and irritation in your dog.
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