07 Feb Itching in dogs: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment (Part 2)

In the previous part, we explained itching in dogs. Itching isn’t a disease, but it can be a sign of a problem in dogs. For example, the presence of skin diseases, parasites, allergies, dry skin and infections can cause itching, pimples, redness of the skin, pain, alopecia and many other symptoms. We have already described parasites, fleas, ticks, mites and dry skin. In this section, we will discuss the other important points and home remedies for this problem.

Skin allergies

If the dog doesn’t have parasites, it’s likely to itch due to allergies. Pet allergies are similar to humans. Dogs may be allergic to the same things we are sensitive to, and their skin may itch instead of respiratory symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose. The most common causes of skin allergies include:

• insect bites
• Food allergies
• Reaction to environmental allergens
• Sometimes the dog may be allergic to the drugs he’s taking

An allergic reaction to food or medicine can cause a condition called atopic dermatitis, one of the symptoms of which is itchy skin. Allergens in the environment (such as pollen, dust, or mildew) can also cause itching. Another condition that causes itchy skin is contact dermatitis, which is caused by direct contact with allergens such as flea bites or certain herbs or detergents.

Environmental or food allergies usually cause itching around the dog’s paws, ears, buttocks, and groin. Insect bites can occur on any part of the body. Some autoimmune diseases can also cause itching all over the body. Dogs that itch only in a certain season are more likely to have seasonal allergies (for example, to pollen). But if their skin is itchy all year round, they‘re probably either allergic to the materials around them (such as dust) or some foods and maybe both.

Skin infection

Itching may also occur due to skin infections. Bacterial, yeast and fungal infections can also cause itching. For example, some bacteria cause pyotraumatic dermatitis which causes the dog to scratch, lick and bite parts of his skin. Dermatophytosis, or ringworm, is a fungal disease that causes baldness, sores, and itching on the dog’s body, causing round, hairless patches on the skin with pink, scaly sores. This fungus usually doesn’t cause itching, but it may make the animal scratch the wound. There are also yeast infections that are less common in dogs. In addition to itching, symptoms such as shedding, scaling, bad odour, and fluid and pus discharge are common. For any skin infection, it’s better to see a veterinarian determine the exact cause and prescribe appropriate medications for it.

Home treatment for itching in dogs

Sometimes it’s necessary to visit a veterinarian to treat itching, but sometimes the problem can be treated with simple home remedies. If your dog’s itching is mild or occurs only occasionally, you can use these completely safe methods. Just note that if the dog’s problem remains unchanged or worsens after using these methods, stop treatment. If the itching of your dog’s body doesn’t treat with the following methods, be sure to visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. There are 7 ways to treat itching in dogs at home with natural materials.

Oatmeal powder

Oats are a type of cereal that can cure itching by reducing inflammation and eliminating allergens that get stuck in a dog’s hair. Thoroughly powder the seeds of this plant and then boil it until its extract comes out and pour this extract into the water in which your dog bathes. Oatmeal is also completely harmless and if it enters the dog’s mouth, no problem will occur.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an antibacterial and antifungal agent. Pour 50% vinegar and 50% water into a bottle to mix and then spray on the itchy area of ​​your dog’s body. If the dog’s claws are itchy, you can soak his claws in this solution for up to five minutes. You can easily make your dog anti-itch spray, which often works well. Just be aware that vinegar shouldn’t be rubbed directly on the skin or come in contact with open wounds as it can be very painful for your dog and make his problem worse.

coconut oil

Coconut oil is also one of the substances that can be used as a home remedy for itching in the dog’s body. Massaging dog skin and hair with cold coconut oil can reduce itching and discomfort related to eczema, allergies, skin infections and even insect bites.