Why is my dog itching so much?

Quick takeaways about dog itching

• Frequent itching, nibbling and licking could be a sign of a skin condition or allergy.
• Around 10% of dogs experience canine atopic dermatitis – an allergic skin condition that causes itching.
• Itchy dog treatments can include antihistamines, medicated shampoos and dietary changes.

 

While all dogs like a good old scratch now and then, if your dog seems to be itching all the time it’s worth investigating the possible causes.

Dog itching can be caused by something as simple as a change in your household washing powder, a case of fleas or a sensitivity to certain foods.

It’s also the most common symptom of canine atopic dermatitis (CAD), an allergic skin condition in dogs. CAD is thought to affect around 10% of pooches, according to studies cited by the University of Nottingham.

Regardless of the cause, repeated itching, licking and rubbing can lead to redness, fur loss, and damaged skin.

Understanding how to manage frequent itching can help to keep your dog comfortable, and prevent their skin from becoming infected.

 

What are the most common causes of itching in dogs?

1. Allergies

Itchiness caused by environmental allergens like dust mites, grasses and pollens can lead to canine atopic dermatitis (CAD), a long-term skin condition in dogs.

But there are other things your dog could be allergic or sensitive to, including washing detergent, scented candles and cleaning products around your home.

Food allergies and sensitivities can be another trigger for itching, which can lead to fur loss and skin conditions if left untreated.

Treatment possibilities
Working out which allergens your dog is sensitive to is key to eliminating or at least reducing contact with them.

Seasonal allergies are most common, so there’s a good chance the itching could be caused by a pollen allergy if it gets worse during spring.

If there’s no clear link or cause, pay close attention to anything you might have changed around the home, and keep a diary of symptoms to help you spot any patterns before speaking with your vet.

 

2. Skin conditions

As we mentioned above, CAD is one of the most common skin conditions in dogs that causes excessive itching.

There are many more skin conditions that can cause itching though, including seborrhoea – which causes excessively dry, flaky skin – and mange, which is caused by tiny mites and can lead to fur loss.

Your vet can help you to determine which condition is causing your dog to itch.

Treatment possibilities
Depending on the skin condition, your vet will be able to offer treatments including topical shampoos and creams and medications like corticosteroids and antibiotics.

 

3. Parasites

Fleas, lice and ticks are some of the most common culprits when it comes to itching in dogs, and they can also carry diseases.

They can be picked up from other dogs or the grass when out on walks and can be hard to spot – particularly in long-haired and dark-haired dogs.

Treatment possibilities
This will depend on the type of parasite. Regular flea treatment, for example, can help to prevent and treat flea and lice infestations.

Only 5% of the total flea population will live on your dog, so you’ll need to treat your home and your pet’s bedding thoroughly.

Ticks must be removed as soon as you find them as they can spread disease, but it’s important to use the correct tool and remove them completely. If in any doubt, book in to see your vet.

 

4. Bites and stings

Bites from flies, wasps, mites and bees can all cause your dog to itch and are more of an issue in warmer months.

If your dog has been bitten or stung, you’ll notice they’re itching a specific area of their body and you may see one or multiple bites, bumps or raised areas.

Treatment possibilities
You can cool the area with an ice pack wrapped in a towel, and keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t become inflamed or infected.

Remove any insects or stings left behind, and keep an eye out for ticks – as above, these must be removed immediately and fully, using a special tick removal tool.

 

Do I need to see a vet about my dog’s frequent itching?

Some itching is normal for all dogs. But if your dog is itching, rubbing, licking or biting their skin a lot more than usual and you can’t find an obvious cause, it’s worth speaking to your vet.

They’ll help you get to the bottom of the issue and suggest suitable treatments depending on the cause and severity.

 

Why is my dog always itchy after eating?

While only 10% of dog allergies are food-related, skin problems are one of the most common symptoms of a food allergy in dogs.

If you’ve noticed that they’re itching after eating, rather than there being any seasonal pattern, they might have a food intolerance or allergy – for example to a common dog food allergen like chicken or beef.

You might notice other symptoms like rashes and hair loss if this is the case, as well as problems with your dog’s digestion.

Start by recording a food diary and talk to your vet before making any dietary changes.

 

What treatments are available for dog itching?

Your treatment plan will depend on what’s causing your pooch to scratch. Common solutions to itchy skin in dogs include:

• Antihistamines
• Anti-itch creams
• Antibiotics or corticosteroids for infections
• Medicated shampoos
• A buster collar or surgical coat to protect their skin
• Hypoallergenic dog food
• Flea, worm and tick prevention medication.

 

Is there anything I can do to stop my dog from getting itchy in the first place?

While some dogs are naturally prone to itching, some preventative steps can help to guard your dog from the common triggers. That includes:

• Keeping on top of their grooming routine
• Drying your dog when they get wet
• Feeding a natural diet – like our complete and balanced raw – that avoids foods they’re sensitive to
• Staying up to date with their flea and worm treatments
• Sticking to areas of shorter grass in summer
• Keeping their bedding clean and dry

By checking your dog’s coat regularly, you’ll be able to spot anything out of the ordinary quickly and be more able to nip issues in the bud before they become a bigger issue.

 

Dog itching FAQs

What can I do if my dog is itching their ears and face?

Environmental allergies might cause your dog to itch their face – for example, if they sniff or lick pollen or grass while they’re out and about, which irritates their nose and skin around their mouth.

If you find they’re using their paws to itch their ears a lot, check inside their ears to rule out a foreign object or ear mites.

If you spot any bites, areas of soreness or irritation inside their ears, especially if their itching seems to come out of nowhere, speak to your vet.

 

My dog is constantly chewing their paws – what can I do to stop them?

Some paw-chewing is normal for dogs, but there could be an underlying issue, especially if your pooch is making their paws red and swollen.

Your dog’s paws may have come into contact with an allergen like pollen, or they may have a bacterial or fungal infection.

Treat chewing like itching – check their paws carefully, try to keep them clean and dry, and speak to your vet if you’re concerned that something is bothering your dog.

 

Should I bathe my itchy dog more or less?

Regular baths can help to remove any irritants that might have come into contact with your dog’s skin or fur.

But, too many baths can strip the natural oils from their coat – so unless your vet has advised otherwise, bathe them as you normally would to keep them clean.

Groom your dog as normal and always dry them when they get wet, as bacteria thrive in moist conditions.

 

Can changing my dog’s diet help with itchy skin?

A balanced and healthy diet is essential for your dog’s skin health, so choose food with plenty of protein, B vitamins, Omega-3 and 6 essential fatty acids. Raw food is a great option for feeding all of these.

If your dog has sensitive skin or a food intolerance or allergy, changing up their food or switching to a different protein could help.

Every dog is different, so always speak to your vet if you’re concerned that diet is a factor.

 

CTA: Try our personalised meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients, including plenty of proteins and vitamins to help keep your dog’s skin healthy.