Why Do Dogs Itch All The Time

All dogs will be itchy at some point. It is in their nature. You may believe that only fleas cause this and as such the solution is easy and simple. This is not true. There are a few reasons why dogs may feel itchy and each one is different. Why do dogs itch all the time? There are 5 common reasons and each one requires a different approach and solution. Here we can add that this is not normal and you need to help your dog. He is in massive discomfort and he needs you. First, we will explain what itching means and why it happens.

 What Itching Means?

The skin of your dog will come in contact with some irritation. A dog will feel the urge to scratch and remove the sensation that makes him do this. The allergen can come from almost anywhere and it will be a huge problem for a dog. Below are a few cases that explain the topic in detail and why it happens.

8 Reasons Why Dogs Feel Itchy

Food

Food can cause this issue. It means your dog could be allergic to some ingredients found in the food, such as chicken, dairy, or anything else. In this case scenario, he will be itchy under the armpits, on the belly, and also on his feet and face. You have to modify his diet and find the ingredient he is allergic to. For that, you have to take him to a vet. 

From The Environment

All kinds of allergens can come from nature and they can cause itchy skin. These include pollen, dust, mold spores and so many more. Some dogs will have this problem all year round while others will have it just in a particular season. For instance, if your pet has itchy skin in the spring, pollen can be the main cause. 

You can see your dog licking and scratching one spot. He will probably have red skin and lack of hair on that spot so you can easily spot it. If this is the cause, you may want to invest in a bed that will keep your pet away from the ground and minimizes the exposure to allergens. 

Skin Infection

Bacterial and yeast infections can cause itchy skin all the time. There are some differences here. For instance, yeast infection is usually present in areas where skin folds. You can see it between the toes, around the neck, etc. Bacterial infection on the other hand can affect all body parts and it can present in all sorts of ways.

With most dogs, you can see red skin, itchy skin that lasts for weeks, and a massive level of discomfort. You can notice a foul smell as well. This is not something that go away and your pet will be fine. This could be a huge problem that needs a proper solution and treatment. 

Wound

It is not an allergen in this case but it is one of the reasons we must add. It happens when the wound is small so it is itchy or it starts to heal and it is itchy. You can see the wound and you will notice that scratching makes it worse. If this happens, your pet will need help with the wound and you may have to use certain medications, creams, or even some procedure to help him recover. In some situations, you may have to use an e-collar to prevent a dog from licking and biting the wound. 

Fleas 

This is the most common and the most obvious reason. Just one flea can cause itchy skin and can make the life of your pet a huge nightmare. You need to inspect your pet and react. Fleas are typically present at the base of the tail, on the rear legs, and on the belly. But, they can bite a dog everywhere and he can be in massive discomfort. There are great solutions out there and yo definitely need to invest in one. 

Hot Spots

Hot spots, a prevalent dermal condition, can trigger an itchy and irritable sensation that prompts your canine to scratch itself incessantly. They are inflamed and irritated skin patches and can occur due to a myriad of factors, ranging from allergens to parasites or bacterial infections.

The primary treatment for hot spots is to ensure the affected region remains free of moisture and contaminants. Topical treatments, such as hydrocortisone cream, are also useful in soothing inflammation and mitigating itching. In acute cases, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to combat the underlying infection.

Boredom

Believe it or not, boredom can also be a reason why dogs itch. If dogs are bored, they could turn to self-destructive behaviors, such as excessive scratching and licking. This behavior is known as “psychogenic licking” and it is difficult to treat.

To prevent psychogenic licking, it’s important to provide your dog with plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and playtime, Puzzle toys and interactive games is a good optionto keep them entertained. Also you can enroll your dog in training classes or hire a dog walker for an additional stimulation and socialization.

Anxiety

Anxiety is another common reason why dogs may itch. To reduce this, it’s imperative to identify the root cause of their anxiety and manage it appropriately. For instance, if your furry companion suffers from separation anxiety, collaborating with a professional trainer can help teach your dog coping mechanisms and gradually desensitize them to your absences. 

It’s crucial to understand that each dog is unique and may respond differently to the techniques used to address their anxiety. In doubt, the best option is to visit your vet. A vet could prescribe anti-anxiety medication to ease the symptoms your dog experiences.

Options You Can Try At Home

Try to remember that in some cases you can help your dog at home and eliminate itchy skin completely. In others, you will need to take him to a vet and get help. Here are the possible solutions that may help you. But, if these do not work or they make the situation even worse, take him to a vet immediately.

• Shampoos and Oils

Yes, you can use certain shampoos and oils and they can work sometimes. But, they usually treat the issue and not the cause so they are not the best option. However, these can remove environmental allergens and make your pet feel much better.

• Antihistamines

Antihistamines can make your pet feel better in a few minutes. These can be used for all kinds of issues and they are a common solution many dog owners use. However, they rarely solve the cause of the problem hence you can see that this is not the best treatment for your dog. 

• Steroids

Steroids will usually have to be prescribed by a vet. These are effective in treating allergies and can work well. But, there are some side effects. Dogs will change their behavior. They may be thirsty all the time or they can gain weight. 

If you try all of these home options and nothing works, it means that the problem could be more severe and you will need to take him to a vet. 

The Final Word 

Today we have explained all the things that can cause this issue. Why do dogs itch all the time? They have some issue that affects the skin and forces them to scratch and solve the problem in their own way. You need to react and you need to help your pet by finding the main cause of the itchy skin and eliminating it. Your vet will have some products that will work perfectly and are easy to use.