As a parent of a pet, the worst thing is to see your lovely dog itch, bite, or lick their skin endlessly. Endless itching may ruin the quality of life in your dog, disrupt their sleep, and even cause infections. If you've ever wondered, "Why is my dog so itchy?", then you're not alone.
Knowing the reason behind itchy skin and how to cure it can be a lifesaver — for your dog, and for your own peace of mind.
Why Do Dogs Itch?
Itchiness, or pruritus, is usually a sign, not the illness itself. It may result from a variety of causes. These are the most common ones:
1. Environmental Allergies
Dogs, much like humans, can be allergic to pollen, dust mites, grass, mold spores, or even household cleansers. Seasonal allergies tend to act up in spring and summer.
2. Fleas and Mites
One flea bite can initiate severe itchiness, particularly if your dog has a flea saliva allergy. Mites (such as mange-inducing mites) can also infest your dog's skin and lead to incessant scratching.
3. Food Sensitivities
Some canines will develop food allergies to such ingredients as beef, chicken, dairy, or grains. Food allergies will typically produce both gastrointestinal and skin symptoms such as itchiness and ear infections.
4. Dry or Irritated Skin
Harsh weather, low humidity, or excessive bathing may remove natural oils from your dog's skin, which can become dry and itchy.
5. Yeast or Bacterial Infections
Secondary infections often develop when a dog's skin is broken from excessive scratching. These infections can make itching even worse.
6. Hormonal Imbalances or Autoimmune Conditions
Some medical conditions, like hypothyroidism or lupus, can cause chronic skin problems and itching.
How You Can Help Your Dog Stop Itching
The solution to assisting your dog is to address the itch from multiple angles. Begin by visiting your vet to determine the root cause. With a diagnosis, you can then start to treat the itch with special care.
These four great, vet-approved items at BudgetVetCare provide different methods of itch relief — from medication that acts quickly to holistic, natural remedy.
Best Itch-Relief Products for Dogs
Natural Animal Solutions Itchy Scratch Pack
A soothing, all-natural solution for soothing mild to moderate skin irritation. This pack calms irritated skin and aids in skin healing without artificial chemicals. Great for pet owners seeking a natural path to soothe their dog.
Apoquel for Dogs
For dogs with more severe allergic responses, Apoquel is a strong option. It addresses the cause of the itch at the cellular level and brings relief in 4 hours. Apoquel is not sedating and is a vet favorite for managing chronic allergies.
EcoVet Eco-Allergy Liquid
EcoVet Eco-Allergy Liquid is a homeopathic, chemical-free liquid that lessens sensitivity to environmental allergens. It's safe for multi-cat and multi-horse households and is simple to administer.
Dorwest Green Releaf Tablets
Formulated from a mixture of natural herbs, Dorwest Green Releaf Tablets encourage healthy skin and ease inflammation. Suitable for ongoing use, Green Releaf takes care of your dog's immune system and offers a consistent defense against itchy flare-ups.
Tips to Support Your Dog's Skin Health
In addition to treatment, the following are some lifestyle adjustments that can decrease itching and promote your dog's skin health:
- Bathing: Apply vet-recommended, hypoallergenic shampoos.
- Flea Prevention: Be persistent with flea and tick preventives.
- Dietary Support: Provide high-grade food with high levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
- Hydration: Make sure your dog has unfettered access to clean, fresh water.
- Regular Vet Visits: Early detection of skin problems can keep them from escalating.
Final Thoughts
Scratchy skin is more than an annoyance — it can be a symptom of underlying health problems that require attention. If your dog requires fast relief from allergies, or a natural supplement for on-going skin health, BudgetVetCare has reliable solutions for all pets.
Don't let your dog suffer in silence. Shop the right products for your dog's skin health today at BudgetVetCare.com and restore the comfort to their wag.