Although scratching with their feet is the most common way a dog will address skin irritation, they may also choose to bite or lick themselves to try and soothe the irritation. This could be brought on by food allergies, bacterial infections, environmental allergies and plenty of other complications that aren't fleas.
Dogs who keep itching but don't have fleas or mites are more likely to have a skin infection. These infections may be bacterial or might be fungal. Yeast infections may also be a culprit for some itching in dogs.
What can you give a dog for severe itching? If your pet has severe itching, it is time to get them to the vet. However, for mild cases, giving them a soothing bath, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and an effective next-generation flea medication can all be a good place to start.
Flea allergy dermatitis, seasonal allergies or atopy, food allergies, contact dermatitis (e.g., soaps and perfumes), and sarcoptic mange (mites) are some of the most common causes of pruritus in dogs. "Pruritus due to skin disease is one of the most common reasons dog owners seek veterinary care."
If you leave itchy skin in dogs untreated, it may lead to new problems, such as hot spots, which are areas of inflamed skin caused by excessive licking and biting. Your pet will also be uncomfortable, and the only way to stop the itching is to see a vet to find and treat the cause.
Zyrtec is an over-the-counter human allergy medication sometimes given to dogs with atopic dermatitis or mild to moderate environmental allergies. Vets may recommend Zyrtec for dogs who scratch excessively, are sensitive to insect bites, or have dermatitis.
Although there are a number of other more likely causes of itchiness in your dog, intestinal worms could be one of the potential causes. Behaviours that could link to itchiness caused by the presence of worms include any scratching of the rear end or rubbing or dragging their bottom on the ground.
Once a week, spray your dog's fur with the mixture. Although not scientifically proven to get rid of flea, the acidic taste of the vinegar may repel fleas and other parasites. If your dog dislikes being sprayed, dip a washcloth into the mixture and rub your dog's coat. There is no need to rinse your dog afterward.
Coconut oil can add moisture to your dog's skin and prevent flaking. It also helps freshen up a dog's coat if used with a light touch. To use it topically, simply rub a very small amount onto your hands and then gently pat the coat, run your fingers through the fur, and massage a little down onto the skin.
Itching: A characteristic of many possible skin conditions:
Fleas, mites, lice, and other external parasites. Anxiety or stress. Bacterial or fungal infections. Skin cancer.
Part your dog's fur with your fingers to expose the skin. If fleas are present, you may notice the following signs: The skin may look red and bumpy, especially if your dog has been scratching. You may see tiny adult fleas that scurry away quickly or even jump.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), cetirizine (Zyrtec®), and loratadine (Claritin®) are commonly used antihistamines that relieve allergy symptoms or counteract allergic reactions. Antihistamines are usually safe but can make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive.
Cetirizine (Zyrtec) ¼ - ½ mg per pound (one 10mg tab per 30-40 lbs) twice daily. Loratadine (Claritin): ¼ mg per pound (half of a 10mg tablet per 20 lbs) once daily. Clemastine (Tavist-1, Antihist-1): 0.02mg per pound (one 1.34mg tablet per 65lb dog) twice daily.
This medication will take effect in one to two hours and improvement of your pet's symptoms should follow.
Dabbing undiluted apple cider vinegar directly onto a bug bite works wonders. The acids help neutralize the itch while the pH balancing affects speed up healing.
Apple cider vinegar may help reduce itching by lowering inflammation and increasing moisture in the skin, but scientists have not yet confirmed that this is the case. Vinegar can also irritate the skin and it may burn. Speak with a doctor before using it, dilute the vinegar, and do a patch test first.
If you think you've identified excessive itchiness, a vet visit is advised strongly. Itchy skin is a symptom of many different ailments, from infections to allergies to parasites and disease. Your vet will be able to treat the itch whilst they try to diagnose the problem and provide the medical cure that's needed.
Autumn is peak season for itchiness in dogs for several reasons. Two standouts are fleas and ragweed allergies.
While bathing can relieve itchiness caused by dander, debris, bacteria, fungal organisms and dead skin on your dog, water can also cause dry, itchy skin. Find the right balance to relieve your dog's itchy skin. Usually bathe no more than twice a week, and with appropriate non-irritating shampoos.