You know the sounds–they’ve kept you up at night. The scratching, the licking, the chewing. Your dog is itching like crazy and it’s driving you both up the walls! Chronic or severe itching and scratching in dogs can have many causes. Whether you've been asking yourself, “Why is my dog so itchy?” for a few days or for a few weeks, it's time to get some answers. That's why we created this list of natural remedies for itchy dogs!

Before you check out the list, keep in mind that some dogs may require a checkup by a licensed veterinarian for severe itching issues. If the itching your dog is experiencing has been ongoing or if your dog is developing self-inflicted wounds due to itching, it's time to visit the vet!

Chamomile and Herbal Tea Soaks

• Chamomile, calendula, and green tea have properties that soothe and cool irritated skin and reduce inflammation, making them great additions in a dog bath for itchy skin. These soaks are best for dogs who have hot, itchy patches of skin that are at risk of getting rubbed raw.
• If your dog is inconsolably itchy all over, fill up your tub or sink with warm water and let several herbal tea bags steep for three minutes. Remove the tea bags and let your dog soak in the bath for at least five minutes.
• Alternatively, for smaller, itchy patches, steep one or two tea bags in about two cups of hot water. Once the tea has cooled down, pour it on your dog’s skin as a quick fix, letting it drip dry without rinsing.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Itchy Dogs

• Apple cider vinegar is a natural, safe soother for especially dry, itchy skin. The antiseptic and antifungal nature of apple cider vinegar makes it a great form of relief from poison ivy but NOT on raw or opened skin. If your dog has itched their skin raw, this solution will sting the exposed wound.
• To avoid getting vinegar in any open cuts, fill a spray bottle with 50% water and 50% apple cider vinegar to target affected areas. If your dog walked through a patch of poison ivy, oak, or sumac, soak their paws in the solution for up to five minutes.

Oatmeal Bath for Itchy Dogs

• Oatmeal is an age-old remedy for our dry, itchy skin that happens to be safe for use on our canine friends too! In fact, most doggy hypoallergenic shampoos include oatmeal as an active ingredient to soothe and fight irritation.
• Start by grinding plain oatmeal into a powder to sprinkle in your dog’s warm bath. The oatmeal will typically take 10 to 15 minutes to cool down red, angry skin, no matter the cause. It is also nontoxic, so it’s okay if your pet licks some off during their long bath. If this sounds like a long time for your pup to be in the tub without a struggle, try some of our techniques to Curb Bath Time Fears.
• Another option to avoid a full-on bath is to make an oatmeal paste. Take your ground oatmeal and gradually add a little bit of water until you are left with a paste that has a spreadable consistency. Target spots that have been bothering your dog and make sure the paste is in contact with the skin on longer-haired dogs for maximum relief.

Sugar-Free Plain Yogurt

• Feeding your itchy dog plain, unsweetened yogurt may offer many health benefits. Some yeast infections and skin irritation can stem from your dog’s digestive system. This remedy is good for dogs who have certain types of rashes, hives, or allergies. Before you feed yogurt to your dog, be sure to check with your vet about the potential risks.
• Feeding small dogs one teaspoon of yogurt and big dogs two teaspoons once a week will improve their overall gut health. Most dogs like the taste of yogurt on its own, but it can also be mixed with food to help digestion.

Coconut Oil for Itchy Dogs

If you have been asking yourself, “What can I give my dog for itchy skin if nothing else is working?” then coconut oil may just be the perfect remedy for your pup. Its high viscosity immediately soothes, while its other components help to calm the skin right away.

• The best oils for dogs are those that offer the kind of viscous protection needed to create a natural barrier between angry skin and the environment. For this reason, coconut oil is among the best oils for canine skin, which is why so many products for pups use it as a key ingredient.
• Many natural beauty products now contain coconut oil because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also an excellent moisturizer for canines, as the oils can penetrate fur for direct contact with the skin. Dogs who are suffering from eczema, allergies, yeast infections, and even insect bites and stings can all benefit from direct application of coconut oil.
• Put coconut oil in the fridge or a cool, dry place so it turns completely solid. For quick relief to dry skin, massage the oil into the coat and on the skin of your dog. Over time, you'll notice your dog’s coat improving, along with relief from constant itching!

Why Is My Puppy So Itchy?

If the dog experiencing severe itchiness is still a puppy and you have already ruled out any potential causes like diet and environment, you should visit a licensed veterinary dermatologist as soon as possible.

A veterinary dermatologist can run tests that general practitioners do not have the ability or equipment to handle in-house. Additionally, you have a better chance of getting to the bottom of your dog's itchiness faster with a specialist who can quickly recognize the root of the problem, whether it be food allergies, air quality, other environmental causes, or even psychological or behavioral issues.

The itchy dog home remedies noted above are safe for most dogs and skin issues. However, you should always consult your veterinarian before using any of these treatments on your pet. A proper diagnosis is key to providing the most effective treatment for your dog’s itchy skin.

Take some of the stress out of unexpected skin conditions with Accident & Illness Coverage from AKC Pet Insurance (underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company). Our dog pet insurance plans are designed to be there when you need them, allowing you to focus more on the health of your pet and less on costly veterinary bills. Click here for a quote today!

 The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not serve as a substitute for the professional medical advice of a licensed veterinarian. Always consult your vet with any questions about your pet’s health before initiating any treatment regimes.

— Update: 09-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Dog Itching: How To Make It Stop from the website winpropet.com for the keyword my dog is itching like crazy.

Is your four-legged friend constantly scratching or biting at their skin? Instead of wanting to play a rousing game of tug of war, is your opponent scratching like crazy? If this sounds like your dog, you need to get to the bottom of what is making your dog miserable and learn how to relieve their symptoms. Once you do, your dog can get back to playing their favorite games with their favorite person.

What Is Causing All the Itching?

It is widespread for dogs to experience pruritus, or the feeling of itchiness, at some point in their life. Sometimes, it can get so bad, your poor pup may need a little help from you to figure out what is causing your dog’s itchy skin. Itching can be caused by a number of reasons, from anxiety to an ear infection, but here are some of the main reasons your pup may be a little extra itchy.

Fleas, Mites, and Bites

Parasites like fleas and mites can cause your dog to lick and itch like crazy. Fleas will bite dogs, injecting them with flea saliva, causing them to itch for days. On the other hand, mites burrow into the skin, causing painful itching, scabbing, and hair loss. If your dog has flea dirt or a tick issue, make sure to talk to your vet to treat the underlying problem. Most likely, they will prescribe a medication that will kill off the parasite.

Just like people, dogs are susceptible to mosquito, ant, and fly bites as well. Make sure you are protecting your furry friend on those summer nights. There are insect repellents specifically made for dogs, so do not just use those made for humans, as they may not be safe for our fur babies.

Allergic Reactions

Your super scratcher may be bothered by an allergic reaction. This can come from a food allergy or environmental allergy-like pollen, a new soap, or mold. Paying attention to when your puppy has watery eyes or is itching and any correlation to the time of year, location, or a change in routine will help rule out an allergic reaction. 

A way to reduce environmental allergens is to brush your dog often to remove any pollen or dust left on their fur. You can also bathe your dog more during months when pollen counts are higher, but make sure not to overdo it. Too many baths or water that is too hot can dry out their skin. Adding Epsom salt or aloe vera to their regular baths can soothe their skin and add moisture back into their skin.

Read more  Why Is My Dog So Itchy? Causes & Treatment

Watch for any allergic reactions to beef or wheat, two common trigger foods in dogs. For more information, you’ll want to visit your vet for medical advice. 

You can also support your pet by giving them a supplement for allergy support. Supporting your dog from the inside out can help to eliminate the problem before it even begins.  

Skin Issues

Unfortunately, some dogs are genetically destined to have dry or itchy skin. Certain breeds have more skin irritation issues than others. Dry skin can also be caused by cold weather, fungal or yeast infections, or even a thyroid issue.  If you suspect an underlying cause to your dog’s dry skin, make sure to get them into their vet’s office for a check-up.

How to Stop the Itch

Once you have an idea of what is causing the itch and have eliminated the problem, if you can, now it is time to stop that itch!  There are supplements and many home remedies to help soothe your furry family member. All dogs are different, so you may need to try a couple of different options to find out what works best for your one-of-a-kind dog.

WINPRO Allergy Supplement

Fight allergy symptoms naturally with our unique plasma-powered formula that delivers powerful antibodies to inflamed areas. Quickly reducing inflammation and minimizing itching and irritation, this formula promotes healing from within. Unlike any other supplement on the market, the spray-dried plasma proteins calm inflammation triggered by stress, environment and seasonal allergies, while also promoting a healthy coat and clearing up allergy issues with their eyes, ears, and nose.

Oatmeal Baths

If your dog is a bathing diva, this is a great option. Oatmeal baths are a good option if your dog is itching all over. You can make your oatmeal bath powder by taking plain oatmeal and grinding it in a coffee grinder or blender.  You can also buy a prepackaged version; either option is perfect. 

Once you have your oatmeal powder, add it into a bathtub of lukewarm water. The amount of oatmeal depends on the size of your dog, but usually, ⅓ cup to one cup works well. The water should come up to about their belly.  Once your dog is relaxed, pour the oatmeal water around your dog and give them a good old fashion massage.  Make sure to cover all of the rashes or other super itchy areas. After soaking for about 10 minutes, rinse your pup and towel dry them off. 

Baking Soda

A mixture of equal parts baking soda and water can make a paste that can be applied on your dog’s itchy spots. This mixture is great for bug bites, bee stings, heat rash, or general irritation. While this is consumable, don’t let your dog eat this mixture, as too much baking soda can be harmful to your curious pet.

Apple Cider Vinegar

If you have caught your dog itching early, and they have not caused any raw or open skin, apple cider vinegar is a soothing, albeit stinky, option to relieve your pet’s itch. In a spray bottle, combine a 50/50 combination of vinegar to water and spray your dog’s itchy areas. An added benefit to apple cider vinegar is it repels fleas, so if your dog is scratching because of those annoying little bugs.

Coconut Oil

Topically, it provides relief to dry, itchy skin. Coconut is an easy way to relieve your pet. All you need to do is open a jar and apply the coconut oil to areas of the skin your dog needs relief. Since coconut oil is safe to eat, you don’t need to worry about them liking the oil off their skin. They may even get added benefits from ingesting coconut oil. Adding a small amount to your dog’s food can help with coughing, digestion, and brain health. Always ask your vet if you have questions about diet changes.

Chamomile Tea

Like an oatmeal bath, you can make a soothing bath with chamomile tea and let your doggie soak to relieve itchy skin. Simply add a few tea bags to the tub of lukewarm water. Once it has steeped for about three minutes, help your dog into the bath and let it soak for around five minutes. To finish, rinse off our pup and towel dry off.

Diet

Diet can play a huge role in combating itching skin, especially if it is caused by allergies or an internal issue in the body. Making sure your dog is getting omega-3s is important as it can help support the immune system and its response to allergens. Incorporating a gut health supplement supports your dog’s gut, which will also support their immune response.

Conclusion

When our furry family member has an incessant itch, not only is it miserable for them, but it is heartbreaking to watch. Visiting your veterinarian and understanding the cause of the itching is the first defense in making it stop. Once we understand the cause, it can better guide us in picking a remedy to help our dog.

Your dog’s health and happiness are our biggest priorities. At WINPRO Pet, we aim to help you and your pet get through the ups and downs of life together and our Allergy supplement is the best solution for an itchy dog

Sources:

Fleas | Animal Health Topics | School of Veterinary Medicine (ucdavis.edu)

Coconut Oil for Dogs: Is it Really Good for Them? | American Kennel Club (akc.org)

— Update: 10-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Why Is My Dog So Itchy? Causes & Treatment from the website www.holistapet.com for the keyword my dog is itching like crazy.

It’s summertime, and the dogs are itching! Or, maybe it’s all the time that your dog seems itchy? If your furry friend is scratching more than usual you’re probably wondering, why is my dog so itchy? Finding the reason as to why your buddy is itching is key in determining whether or not you should seek a veterinarian’s help.

In general, it is more likely for your furry friend to itch during the summer because of the rise in pollens. Although many other things from fleas to ringworm can initiate intense itchiness in dogs. Learning how to discern the difference will allow you to notice the problem quickly and find a suitable solution.

Why Is My Dog So Itchy? Is It Normal For Dogs to Itch?

Are you constantly wondering why your dog is so itchy? This shows you care about and pay attention to your pup! A little itch here or there for dogs is as normal as it is for us. But, some pet owners have the misconception that it is in their dog’s nature to itch or lick themselves frequently. For your dog’s sanity, please do not believe this fallacy! It is important to know the difference between a normal itch and severe scratching.

What Is Severe Itching in Dogs?

Your canine should itch just as much as you do. If you notice your best friend scratching themselves more than usual, it is time to analyze the dietary and environmental changes that have occurred. Keep in mind that intense itching is only a sign that something may be wrong, not a diagnosis.

Besides constant itching, there are some other telltale signs to look for, such as:

• Biting/licking skin
• Bald spots/hair loss
• Hot spots
• Irritated/inflamed skin
• Foul odor (from the skin)

Do Some Dog Breeds Itch More Than Others?

Although a large number of dogs are affected by skin allergies, there are a few breeds that are more prone to skin allergies than others— such as the French Bulldog, Dachshunds, Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherd, or Labrador Retriever.

Allergic reactions occur at a young stage in your dog’s life, so be sure to notice any changes in your dog’s behavior when introducing the new food. Also, it varies on the country or part of the country. If you got your puppy from a breeder, there is a chance your breeder has been crossing dogs that are known to have certain allergies.

Why Is My Dog So Itchy? Does My Dog Have Fleas?

Unfortunately, there are more serious reasons for your furry child to scratch than pollen. The most common reason is fleas, and chances are your dog might have had them. The bright side is that you can identify fleas easily. They are typically around the size of a speck of pepper and there are some common areas to check on your pup.

Fleas usually hide around the ear, head, neck, back, and under regions. If your dog has floppy ears, make sure to check underneath them.  These parasites are the first thing your veterinarian will try to exclude if you take your dog in for scratching. If you have more than one animal in the house, be sure to check them all. If your pet does have fleas, don’t panic, there are many home remedies to help!

Related Article: Home Remedies for Fleas on Dogs [Proven Methods]

Why Is My Dog So Itchy but Has No Fleas?

Usually, it is common for a pet owner to jump to the conclusion that their dog is being chewed alive by fleas, but there are plenty of other possible reasons why your dog is so itchy. Before you call up your veterinarian, take a look for some of the common causes for scratching, biting, and licking:

Parasites

Besides those pesky fleas, there are other parasites to keep an out for. Ticks love to attach themselves to canines causing them excessive irritation and the urge to scratch. A tick’s body size can range between 1/16 and 1/8 of an inch.

Ticks can be hard to spot because they like to hide in odd places and burrow partway into the skin while feasting on blood and avoiding detection. Ticks typically like to hide beneath the color, under the tail, around the groin, on the legs or elbows, and between toes. These sneaky parasites can even hide under the eyelids.

Ear Mites

Another irritating parasite to look for on your canine is ear mites. If you notice your dog scratching their ears excessively, there’s a chance they caught ear mites. Ear mites like to reside under a dog’s ear and eat earwax and oils. Other signs to look for are crust or irritation around the ears, discharge from the ear, head shaking, or hair loss by the ears.

Read more  Does Your Dog Have a Flea Allergy?

Mange

Mange is caused by Demodex mites. Unlike fleas, ticks, and ear mites, Demodex mites are not visible because they are a fraction of a millimeter and they burrow beneath the skin. In order to determine and classify mange, a veterinarian needs to inspect a skin sample from your dog.

There are, however, some other signs to look for: crusty or scaly skin, scabs, redness, rash, hair loss, pus, hotspots, foul odor, and of course scratching and biting their skin.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a frequent occurrence that can affect the skin, fur, and also nails. Ringworms are particularly dangerous because it can spread to other animals and humans inside the house. If you notice hair loss, itching, flaky or a crusty coat, misshapen, or brittle nails, take your doggy to the vet for treatments as soon as possible!

Treatments for ringworm are simple and efficient. Make sure you disinfect your house once a diagnosis has been made to stop the spread of this fungal infection. For those who look to avoid the vet bills, there are some home treatments for ringworm that may help.

Yeast Infection       

Yeast Infection is caused by the overproduction of fungal bacteria on a dog’s skin. It is inflamed by the moisture in the air and the areas of the skin that can hold the most moisture. Although you as a pet owner can not confirm if your dog has a yeast infection, you can look for clues that can detect signs.  Some pooches are prone to yeast infections more than others. Building up your dog’s immune system might make all the difference. A lot of health issues are linked to your dog’s immunity, so it is important to take care of it. You can find out more about dog care on this page.

Dry Skin 

A dog with dry skin can truly be can be a reason for its itchy discomfort. The slightest touch can be a catalyst for your dog’s excessive scratching. Depending on where you reside, your dog (and you), could be prone to dry skin. In places with low humidity your furry friend my begin getting dandruff, which will cause him/her to itch.

It should be noted that the food you feed your canine may contribute to the dry skin. To help your dog’s coat, you might want to feed him/her food with healthy fatty acids. Unfortunately, some dry dog foods are known to dehydrate dogs. If your dog’s skin is dry, there might be a nutritional imbalance.

You can easily identify dry skin by parting the hair. If the skin appears flaky or scaly, your dog may have dry skin. Dogs with dry skin can itch but are usually never the only reason why your dog is itching and is usually a result of allergies.

Allergies

It’s weird to think your hound has allergic reactions, but it is actually pretty common! Allergies can cause atopic dermatitis, which is caused when a canine’s immune system is overreacting to a normal environmental or dietary element. Your pooch might overcompensate to discomfort by vigorously itching his/her skin. This can potentially cause breakage in the skin or cause ulcers that will inevitably make your pooch more prone to other infections. Your veterinarian would be able to target the reason for your dog’s allergies, but here are some things that may trigger it.

Environmental Allergies

Environmental allergens are mostly seasonal. Pollen can be the major reason your dog is itching. Unlike humans, a dog’s hair floccule does not have an outer root sheath to stop things from getting in, therefore, their skin is much more sensitive than ours. The pollens from grass and plants can easily sneak their way in the follicle causing your buddy to itch.

Pollen can also enter the body through the respiratory tract or eyes. Dogs with dry skin have a higher chance of having an allergic reaction to environmental allergens in areas with low humidity. Keeping your pet indoors might help reduce environmental allergies. Another alternative is to find a good allergy medicine that works well for your dog. 

Food Allergies

According to the former president of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, Susan Wynn, 10% of allergies are caused by diet in dogs. However, there is a difference between intolerance and an allergic reaction. Besides scratching, the signs your dog may be having a reaction are chronic ear inflammation, gastrointestinal problems, chronic diarrhea to chronic gas, licking their feet, or an itchy rear end.

Above are the most common reactions, but it does not stop there. The most common allergens are beef, dairy, wheat, egg, chicken, lamb, soy, pork, rabbit, and fish. And, most pooches are usually allergic to more than one thing! The only true treatment would be to find out exactly what your pooch is allergic to and avoid it.

Related Product: CBD Dog Treat By Holistapet

Home Treatments – Why is My Dog So Itchy?

Unfortunately, sometimes the treatment for this is not that simple. The goal is to promote a healthy digestive system so it can absorb fluids from the foods your pet eats. Probiotics are known to help the digestive tract by having high amounts of digestive enzymes. Clinical research has shown that high-potency cultures of beneficial probiotic bacteria help prevent pets from developing allergies.

Also, providing fresh, filtered drinking water can improve the quality of your dog’s coat. Besides the dietary changes, ask your groomer to use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner for itchy skin, and to turn down the heat on the blow dryer.

Regrettably, not all itches can be treated with some TLC. In those cases, all you can do as a pet owner is comfort your bud until you get them to a vet. There are at-home remedies you can try, such as oatmeal baths, apple cider vinegar & water spray, natural skin tonic, Omega 3s, coconut oil, CBD oil, baking soda, neem oil, yellow dock, vitamin E oil, yogurt, olive oil, chamomile, calendula, and Epsom salt soak. 

Final Thoughts – Why is My Dog So Itchy?

— Update: 10-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Why is My Dog Itching and Scratching? (And How to Fix It) from the website www.toe-beans.com for the keyword my dog is itching like crazy.

One of the most common issues for dogs is itching and scratching.

Why is my dog itching and scratching? I bet you have wondered many, many times. Dog itching and scratching is so common because it has a variety of different causes, all with different solutions.

We’re not talking about the occasional ear or side scratch here; we’re talking constant itching or scratching behavior that never gives you (or your pup) a moment of peace.

What’s going on? Is it fleas? Is it something worse? Figuring out the problem is the first step to getting it solved.

In this post I discuss the most common causes for dog’s itchiness and scratching. From Allergies, to anxiety to infections to hormonal problems.This section comes with two short educational videos 📽️ worth watching.

If you are interested in more dog care guides🐶, my blog is full of these. I’ve handpicked some great ones and added them at the bottom. 

Lets dig in!

Your Dog Has Allergies

Do you get itchy eyes, a watery nose, or sneezing fits in the spring or fall? That’s allergies and your dog can experience them too.

There are four broad types of allergies your dog might have.

• Environmental Dermatitis. This is like our seasonal pollen allergies in humans. Something in the air makes your dog itchy. You’ll also likely notice watery eyes and sneezing, as well as skin issues.
• Nutritional Dermatitis. Similar to human gluten/shellfish/nut allergies, in many instances, dogs can have nutritional allergies. You’ll need to determine what they’re eating that they’re allergic to and remove it from their diet.
• Contact Dermatitis. Some allergens aren’t airborne; think poison ivy. Maybe your dog rolled in something or brushed against something, and it’s irritating their skin.
• Flea Allergic Dermatitis (FAD). Flea saliva can trigger a particular kind of allergy, even if your dog doesn’t currently have fleas.  

Allergies can be remedied by removing the source of the allergen. If that’s not possible – such as airborne pollen – you’ll need to talk to your vet about antihistamines.

A home air filter can help as well.

Read More Dog Care Guides

• How to Tell When Your Dog Has an Ear Infection (And What to Do)
• 6 Reasons Why Your Dog’s Breath Smells Like Fish
• How Often Should a Healthy Dog Poop Each Day?
• Your Dog Got Kicked Out of Doggy Daycare – What Now?
• Home Remedies: How to Remove Water from Your Dog’s Ears

Keep in mind that food allergies need to be monitored and controlled.

While they’re not likely to be dangerous, they’re unpleasant, and you’ll want to make sure your dog’s diet avoids whatever is causing the problem.

Your Dog Has Anxiety

Dogs that have anxiety can develop coping mechanisms, often of an unhealthy variety.

In some cases, this can result in something akin to obsessive-compulsive disorder, where your dog compulsively licks, scratches, or chews, often on parts of themselves.

You’ll want to talk to your vet to find a way to deal with these behaviors and address the causes when possible.

CBD oil for dogs has been proven effective in helping improve situational anxiety in dogs. 

Your Dog Has Fleas or Other Pests

Your first thought when you see your dog itching is probably, “oh no! Fleas!”

There are many causes for itching though, and most of them aren’t related to little insects infesting your fur baby’s coat.

There are several different kinds of parasites that can trigger itching.

• Fleas, of course. Fleas are common and easily treated.
• Mites. Various skin and hair mites can cause itching. Keep a close eye if your dog is always scratching their ears. Some mite infestations can also lead to Mange, which is curable but dangerous.
• Lice. Similar to human head lice, dogs can get a form of lice (that thankfully doesn’t jump to humans!) that makes them itchy. Anyone else scratching their head right now?? Treatment often involves a thorough medicated bath.
• Ticks. Ticks are larger and usually more obvious than other forms of parasites, but fewer of them attack your pup at once. They can also leave itchy spots even after they detach, so check for welts.

Read more  Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food Review (Dry)

Read More Dog Care Guides

• A Pet Parent’s Guide to Caring for a Dog After a Hike
• Buy USDA Certified Organic Dog Paw Balms Made in the USA
• [Guide] How to Train Your Dog to Let You Clip Their Nails
• What Is Dog Recall Training and How Do You Start?
• DIY Guide: Natural Ways to Repel Ticks and Fleas from Your Dog

Dealing with various parasites means identifying which one is causing the problem, and getting the appropriate medication to deal with it.

You’ll want a good pair of gloves, a warm bath, and some time spent inspecting your fur baby’s coat.

For fleas, well, you probably know what to look for; tiny jumping specks that can be easily spotted if you look closely at the root of the hair. Mites often cluster around the ears and can cause patchy fur, scaly skin, or redness.

Lice need special comb for removal and tend to cluster in the hindquarters or neck fur. Ticks, of course, can end up as large lumps of engorged insects and need to be carefully removed to avoid infection or further irritation.

Read More Dog Care Guides

• How to Select a Safe Dog Rope Toy
• 6 Reasons Your Dog Barks at Night (And What To Do)
• How to Find the Quick When Trimming Black or White Dog Nails
• How to Buy Pup Paw Balms
• Are Dog Rope Toys Safe? How to Spot and Avoid Dangerous Ropes
• How to Bathe and Groom Your Dog Like a Professional

Once you have some idea of what pest you’re dealing with, talk to your vet for an appropriate solution. Usually, a prescription for a simple medicated bath is all you need to have your dog as right as rain again.

Here is a complete DIY guide on natural ways to repel ticks and fleas from your dog.

Alternatively and, more like a preventative measure, our USDA certified organic dry dog shampoo has been formulated to help your dog smell fresh longer after each bath while keeping pesky bugs away.

Your Dog Has Contact Irritation

As cute as that little doggy sweater or bee costume is, it might be causing itching!

Just like when you wear a sweater and it makes your skin itch, your fur baby might itch from an outfit you put them in. It’s called contact dermatitis, and the solution is simple: stop putting that outfit on them.

Some dogs have sensitive skin and won’t tolerate clothing or even certain collars.

Others just need natural fibers rather than synthetic, or vice versa. Get them the right fabric, and they’ll have no trouble being your Instagram model!

Also, keep in mind that there’s a difference between pawing at a new outfit because it’s weird; the “why did you put this on me, mommy?” and something that causes a topical allergic reaction.

Allergic reactions are stronger and last longer, even after the article of clothing has been removed. 

Read More Dog Care Guides

• Weird Dog Feet Smells? Here’s Why (and How to Fix It)
• How to Keep Dog Paws from Getting Burnt on Hot Pavement
• How to Control and Calm Down a Hyperactive Dog
• Methods to Safely Untangle and Brush Out Matted Dog Hair
• FAQ: Is It Ever “Too Late” to Socialize an Adult Dog?

If the outfit is a poor fit, it might also cause irritation. This is the same as if you’re wearing a too-tight piece of clothing and it rubs in one place enough to rub your skin raw.

Make sure any clothing you get for your fur baby fits properly.  Our best advise is to avoid any type of unnecessary outfits altogether.

Your Dog Has Dry Skin

Dry skin is very common, and unfortunately can be difficult to diagnose. It might be due to a nutritional deficiency, such as low fatty acids, particularly Omega 3.

On the other hand, it might just be because the air is dry.

If your dog is itching the most in winter weather, s/he might have seasonal dry skin.  

Another common cause of dry skin is the soap or shampoo you use when you’re giving them a bath.

Just like some soaps dry out our skin, some shampoos can dry out your fur baby’s skin, leaving them itchy once they dry.

If dry skin is caused by dry air, you can try adding a room or house humidifier. These can be effective, but they have their own problems (they can get moldy or leave residue on surfaces in your home, for example), so they aren’t always ideal.  To avoid the residue left on surfaces, make sure to always use distilled water.

Conversely, if dry skin is caused by a specific soap or shampoo, switch it out.

There are plenty of pet shampoos out there, many of which include moisturizers to help avoid exactly this problem.

You’ll want to avoid certain ingredients in your pet shampoos, including ammonium laureth sulfate, parabens, lanolin, phthalates, formaldehyde, polyethylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, and any sulfate. Here’s a more detailed guide.

Your Dog is Dirty

We get it, life gets busy, and you may have put off that bath for your pup longer than you had planned. 

Unfortunately, one of the most common causes of itching is just dirt. Dirty skin and fur itch, and can cause minor infestations of bacteria and fungi that also itch.  

Some dogs are very averse to bath time and fight it every step of the way.

Others don’t mind it, and still, others love wet playtime. You can likely train your fur baby away from aversive behaviors and get them to love bath time with a little work, using techniques similar to those we recommend for nail trimming.

You’ll want to make sure to give your dog a bath at least once a month, though some experts recommend as often as once a week. And, of course, give them a bath any time they stink (skunks are not your friends), get excessively dirty, or roll in something they shouldn’t.  

Different dog breeds have different bathing schedules as well. Some can last longer without needing one, while others need them more often. Here are some guidelines you can follow.

Your Dog Has an Infection

Dogs can get a bunch of different skin infections, and it’s not necessarily your fault if they do.

Sometimes they just happen. Some bacterial infections cause itching, as do fungal infections like ringworm.

Yeast is another common one. There are many different kinds of yeasts, and some of them can infest the skin and cause itching and other problems.

Signs of infection, other than itching, include patchy skin, redness, bald patches, and swelling.

If you suspect your fur baby may have some kind of infection, be sure to talk to your vet to get the appropriate medical treatment right away. The sooner you solve it, the sooner you can relieve the itching and get your dog back to their playful self.

Your Dog Has Hormonal Problems

Hormonal problems often look like allergies, but if they persist after treating allergies, it may actually be a hormonal issue. The two main culprits are the thyroid and the adrenal gland.

Thyroid issues can lead to itchiness, while the adrenal gland puts out cortisol, the stress hormone, which causes itchiness in excess.

Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Hormonal issues are less common than the other culprits, but if every other treatment has failed, you might want to ask your vet about getting a blood test done to check for hormonal problems.

Treating hormonal problems depends on the severity of the problem, as well as the source.

Often, it may be as simple as a daily hormonal supplement or even a dietary adjustment. Sometimes it’s harder to treat and might require more medical intervention.

Adrenal Gland Problems in Dogs

Your Dog Has a Genetic Disorder

Some breeds of dogs have genetic issues that cause itching.

For example, according to Homes Alive:

Typically, if you have a purebred pupper of a particular pedigree, you’ll probably know what genetic issues they’ll be at risk of developing throughout their lifetime.

If you’re unsure of your dog’s breed, you might need to do some research and possibly even a genetic test.  

Your Dog is In Pain

Sometimes the behavior you assume is itching isn’t actually itching at all, but pain.

For example, if your fur baby is chewing at their paw, they may have a sharp stone or thorn stuck in a pad and causing irritation.

Older dogs may also react with scratching/biting when they have an internal pain. This is a very common symptom of arthritis and hip dysplasia.

Any issue with the bones is something your dog won’t know how to deal with and pawing at it is the one way they try to deal with the affected areas.

There are a lot of things you can do to relieve pain, depending on the cause. For younger dogs, finding the cause, or protecting them while they heal is all you need.

For older dogs, it may be time to look into more comfortable beds and other adjustments to help with their aging joints.

You’re Using the Wrong Kind of Brush

There are a lot of different kinds of dog brushes out there.

One, called a slicker brush, looks like it would be great for helping your doggo out during shedding season, but the sharper spines and stiff bristles can scratch your dog’s skin, leading to irritation as it heals.

Instead, consider getting a softer de-matter brush. These brushes are much gentler on the skin and won’t scratch it.

In fact, they can even help spread out the natural skin oils in your dog’s coat, keeping them more protected from environmental problems.

Have you had to diagnose a particularly implacable case of the itchies? Does your pup scratch constantly, leaving you at your wit’s end? Hopefully, our guide can help you figure out what’s wrong and deal with it appropriately.

Additionally, if you are feeling like getting a little special something for your fur baby that is unique, made right here in the USA, 100% pup and cat safe, USDA certified organic and, brought to you by a US company, check out Toe Beans online pet supplies store!