Is your dog scratching? Some cases of a dog’s itchy skin are due to an allergic reaction. It can be from a contact source such as wool, a new chemical on the lawn, even fresh cut grass, and of course…..fleas. Another thing to consider is the possibility of an allergic reaction to one or more ingredients in their food. Most food allergies are going to be accompanied by gunky ears – Winston’s ears will have dark yuck and have an ammonia smell. Here are some common causes of itchy skin:
Dog Food Allergy
- Itchy skin (most common symptom for a dog with a food allergy)
- Chronic or recurrent ear infections
- Hair loss
- Excessive scratching
- Hot spots
- Skin infections (that respond to antibiotics but reoccur after they are discontinued)
- Frequent bowel movements
- ear infections
Dog Fleas
- Persistent biting, nibbling and/or scratching different areas of the fur or skin.
Inhaled allergies – because histamine is located in highest concentration in these locations, you’ll notice itching:
- on the tops of a dog’s feet
- up the front legs
- in the corners of mouth
- around the eyes and ears
Depending on your dog’s symptoms, here are some possible remedies.
- Change your doodle’s food to a grain and chicken free dry food. I use Taste of the Wild for Winston. Make sure ALL treats and chews are also grain free.
- Try including fish oil or flax oil in your dog’s diet. Up to 40 percent of atopic dogs respond well to essential fatty acids. Prozyme is also a great additive for dogs.
- Include Vitamin C in your dogs diet.
- Keep your dooodle’s bedding clean. I wash Winston’s bed covers and toys in hot water weekly. His beds from Up Country have a cover that comes off for easy cleaning.
- Do NOT bathe with oatmeal shampoo – it’s a grain.