Are you wondering if your dog has fleas? Maybe your furry friend is itching for another reason.
Yes, itching can signify fleas, but it can also indicate anxiety or skin irritation. Problems with itching could point to a severe underlying condition, and it’s vital to seek a vet’s advice as soon as you notice the problem.
In saying that, many causes of dog itching don’t warrant a vet’s attention. But what are those conditions? Below, we look at why your dog may have developed excessive itching and what you can do about it.
- Allergies
Excessive itching is a common problem among dogs and can signify various medical issues, including allergies.
Allergies can cause dogs to scratch, lick, and chew at their skin until it’s raw and inflamed. Environmental allergies are the most common form of dog allergies and are caused by microscopic particles such as grass, mold, and dust mites.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are another common cause of canine allergies triggered by proteins found in specific food items. Environmental and food allergies can cause extensive inflammation and persistent itching, often leading to hair loss, skin irritation, and sores.
Treatment options range from antihistamines, steroids, special shampoos, and injections to dietary changes, but it’s always best to check with a veterinarian for the best treatment for your pup.
- Skin Infections
Skin infections accompanied by an excessively itching dog are one of the most typical skin problems encountered in dogs.
These infections usually begin with an underlying cause such as allergies, parasites, bacterial or fungal infections, and more. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Redness of the skin
- Excessive itching
- Hair loss
Additionally, depending on the cause, a dog may show symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, bleeding, and discharge from the skin.
Taking your dog to the vet if you suspect any skin infection is essential, as early diagnosis and treatment are vital in decreasing the severe discomfort caused by the disease and its symptoms.
Treatment Options
Treatment may include oral or topical antibiotics, antifungal medication, medicated shampoos, dietary supplements, or immunotherapy. It is vital to keep the area clean, regularly bathing the dog with antibacterial shampoo and using a vet-recommended topical treatment.
- Dry Skin
Dry skin infections are a common problem in dogs that can cause excessive itching and discomfort. Dogs with dry skin can suffer from irritated patches of skin or scaly, thick areas.
Common symptoms include:
- Dandruff
- Redness
- Hair loss
- Itching
If not addressed, the infection can spread to other areas of the body or become more severe. Therefore, it is essential to identify the root cause of dry skin and take steps to heal it.
Possible causes include environmental factors, nutrient deficiencies, allergies, or mites.
Treatment Options
Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause and can include supplements, topical medications, and antifungal shampoos. Oil for dog skin can be a great help too. Talk to your veterinarian to rule out severe underlying medical conditions if drying skin persists.
- Parasites
Parasite infections in dogs can cause excessive itching and discomfort, leading to an unhappy pup.
Common parasites that can cause itching to include fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. While some parasite infestations are apparent, others may be difficult to detect without veterinary help.
The most effective way to reduce the risk of parasite infection is by using flea and tick control products and worming tablets. Additionally, regular grooming and daily inspections of your pet’s fur and skin can help to catch any external parasites you may miss.
Finally, if your dog displays signs of a parasitic infection, it is best to consult a vet who can treat the underlying cause of the problem and help your dog feel comfortable again.
- Hormonal Imbalances
Various factors, such as poor diet, environmental toxins, stress, and disease, can cause hormonal imbalances in dogs.
These imbalances can lead to symptoms like:
- Weight gain or loss
- Lethargy
- Fur discoloration
- Aggression
- Excessive licking or chewing
- Increased urination
- Abnormal temperament
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination of the animal’s endocrine organs, including the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands, and blood tests to measure hormone levels.
Hormonal imbalances can lead to excessive itching in dogs. Common causes of this imbalance include hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and endocrine adenomas.
Hypothyroidism can cause a decrease in the production of hormones, leading to a weakened immune system and itchy skin.
Cushing’s disease is an overproduction of hormones, which can cause restlessness, anxiety, and extreme itching.
Endocrine adenomas are benign tumors growing on the glands that produce hormones and can cause irritation and itching.
Treatment Options
Treatments for hormonal imbalances can vary depending on the cause and may include medication, hormone replacement therapy, or surgery.
Changing your dog’s diet to include ingredients supporting skin and coat health is essential. In addition, providing your dog with daily grooming and regular bathing can help with excessive itching and further bonding with your dog.
Assessing for Dog Itching Regularly Is Vital
Watch for reactions such as scratching, sneezing, raw or flaky skin, or fur discoloration. These symptoms might be accompanied by other signs of illness, like lethargy, weight loss, or loss of appetite.
It’s vital to take your dog to the vet to determine the dog itching cause. Allergens could result from food, mold, or dust in your home. The vet might also want to run tests to check for hormonal imbalances.
Check out other blogs for more helpful fur friend content!