Why is my dog so itchy?
Itching (the medical term is pruritus) is a symptom, not a diagnosis. The most common culprits are allergies — to fleas, food, or things in the environment like pollen and dust mites — along with dry skin, irritation and skin infections that develop from all the scratching.
Signs of itchy, irritated skin
Beyond the obvious scratching, look for the knock-on effects on the skin and coat.
- Frequent scratching, licking, chewing or rubbing
- Red, inflamed or broken skin
- Hair loss or thinning patches
- Flaky, dry or smelly skin
- Recurring hot spots or ear problems
Soothing and managing itchy skin
A calm, consistent skin-care routine helps break the itch-scratch cycle. The aim is to soothe the skin, support the skin barrier and reduce exposure to triggers.
- Stay on top of flea prevention all year round
- Use gentle, soothing topical products on irritated areas
- Support skin and coat from the inside with omega oils
- Wipe paws and coat after walks in allergy season
- Keep bedding clean and consider what’s in their diet
Signs to look for
ScratchingRed skinLickingFlaky coat
When to see your vet. See your vet if the skin is broken, smelly, very red, or if the itching is intense and persistent. Allergies and infections often need a proper diagnosis and treatment plan — supportive products then help you maintain healthy skin day to day.
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