Itching is something almost every dog experiences at some point. Just a quick scratch here and another one there is perfectly normal. But when your dog is scratching a lot, then it’s cause for concern.
Once it starts to become a usual sight, a dog scratching and itching a lot should be given attention. If left untreated, dogs can develop hot spots, a condition caused by excessive scratching and itching.
In this blog, we’ll discover the common reasons why dogs scratch and how to help.
What Causes Dog Itching and Scratching?
The first step is to know what causes your dog's itching. It can be a mild cause or something much more serious.
Allergies
Skin allergies are among the most common causes of dog itching. Like humans, dogs can develop an allergic reaction to several irritants and allergens. These include pollen, dirt, dust, and mold.
Some can even come from their food. Dogs itch when they eat foods that don’t agree with their bodies. Along with scratching, food allergies can present symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal upset.
Parasites
Parasitic infections are another common cause of dog scratching. These include:
Fleas. Fleas on dogs are tiny parasites that cling to their coats and suck their blood. These wingless parasites are one of the many reasons why dogs itch and scratch a lot. In some cases, dogs can also be allergic to the fleas’ saliva, causing flea allergy dermatitis, another itchy situation.
Ticks. Another common parasite in dogs is ticks. Along with their tendency to cause severe irritation and itching, they can also spread diseases like Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis. These diseases are highly dangerous and can be life-threatening.
Mites. Mites are tiny parasites that infest a dog’s coat and cause mange. It’s a condition in which the mites burrow into the dog’s skin and cause intense itching, redness, and irritation. Plus, they’re highly contagious, meaning they can easily spread from one pet to another.
Infections
Bacteria and fungi can cause infections that could trigger itching in dogs. These infections can range from mild to complicated cases. Ringworm and yeast infections are the more common examples. These usually come with hair loss, redness, and a foul odor.
Dry Skin
Dry skin can also be the cause of dog scratching. The dry and scaly skin can be extremely uncomfortable for them, which mostly comes from cold weather, a poor diet, allergies, and excessive bathing.
Stress and Anxiety
In some cases, dogs may scratch and lick themselves excessively because of the stress and emotions they feel. Dogs may have behavioral responses to the psychological issues they experience. This behavior can become a habit if the stress has dealt some serious long-term effects on your dog.
Other Conditions
Itching can also come from several health conditions, as it’s a symptom. It may also come from pain and discomfort, which makes them want to scratch the affected area, such as an open wound or an irritated part of the skin.
Breeds Prone to Skin Problems
Some breeds are more susceptible to itching and scratching because they’re prone to skin issues. For example, Golden Retrievers and Shih Tzus are susceptible to food and environmental allergies.
Dogs with skin folds like Bulldogs and Pugs are more prone to bacterial and fungal infections. Additionally, Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds are prone to dry skin, which can cause intense irritation.
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