Why is my dog itchy?

If your dog has a skin condition, you may notice he's been itching, scratching and licking more than usual. Our vets share tips on potential causes of your dog's skin issues, how you can help treat them and when to consult your vet. 

Itching, Scratching & Irritability

While most dogs will experience itching at some point in their lives, itchy skin conditions can cause your pup to scratch persistently and feel miserable. Though these skin conditions may be annoying for your pet, they aren't usually a cause for concern. That said, some conditions will require veterinary care and treatment to prevent them from progressing into something more severe. 

Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Your dog may begin to scratch, bite or lick at their fur for several reasons. That said, some of the more common causes of itchy skin include:

Parasitic Bites

Flea and mite bites are one of the most common sources of itching in dogs. Fortunately, they can be among the easiest to treat. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication to quickly resolve your pet's parasite problem. You can also proactively give your dog medication to avoid external parasites such as ticks, mites or fleas in the first place. 

Environmental Dermatitis

A common skin irritation in dogs, environmental dermatitis develops due to contact with certain substances such as plants, dirt and grass. Symptoms include blisters, redness, swelling, rashes or itchy/dry skin. 

Oatmeal baths or antihistamines are effective ways to alleviate the condition. Depending on the severity of your dog's skin condition, a vet may prescribe a cortisone cream or alternative.

Nutritional Dermatitis

This tends to be a relatively uncommon issue for dogs; however, it is possible for your pet to react negatively to an ingredient in their food. Typically, nutritional dermatitis results in skin irritations and scratching, but digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting can also occur. If your pup is displaying any type of symptom, it's best to make an appointment with your primary care vet.

Skin Allergies

Several dog breeds are prone to allergies, making this a somewhat common reason for them to see the vet. Allergens that cause itchy skin can be found in pollen, dander, plants or insects, among other things. Symptoms that your dog may exhibit aside from itching include overgrooming or licking, watery eyes and sneezing, rashes, and inflamed skin. Your vet may be able to diagnose what is causing the allergy and recommend treatment. However, more severe cases may require the services of a specialist. 

Hives

Hives are another type of allergic reaction that can be observed in dogs. Hives can be a reaction to many things, from medications to bug bites and more. Hives manifest as a raised bump that causes the dog's fur to stick out, or swelling near and around the eyes. Using a hypoallergenic shampoo for dogs often helps to alleviate this condition. A dog-specific hydrating leave-in conditioner may also help. Ask your vet what they recommend for your pet.

Emergency Cases

If your dog's itching persists for more than 48 hours, you should make an appointment for urgent care so your vet can diagnose the issue and treat your pup's annoying skin condition. Prolonged itching can cause excessive scratching and biting at the source, which can result in self-inflicted injuries and in some cases infections. This can become serious if left unchecked.

Does your pet have a skin problem? Talk to a veterinarian near you to learn more or to book an appointment for testing and treatment.