Itchy skin in dogs is common, but it can significantly affect your pet’s quality of life. If your pup is struggling with scratching, licking, or biting at their skin regularly, it’s likely they’re dealing with skin inflammation, and if left unchecked, it can lead to even more issues.

Many pet owners in Arizona have turned to AnimalBiome test kits t o understand the root causes of their dogs' itchy skin. Alongside these test kits, The Fetching Dog offers affordable supplements and fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs), often at a fraction of the cost compared to veterinary clinics, to keep your dog feel happy, healthy, and itch-free.

Read on to learn more about itchy skin in dogs and how you can help improve your dog’s skin health.

Common Causes of Itchy Skin in Dogs

To help soothe your dog’s itchy skin, it’s important to understand the common causes and why your dog may be affected. Here are some of the primary causes:

  1. Allergies

Your dog could be sensitive to something in their food or environment. This sensitivity can cause an allergic reaction, leading to skin inflammation. 

Dogs can develop food allergies to certain ingredients, like grains, dairy, or specific proteins. Chicken and beef, for example, are common food allergies for dogs.

In addition to food, environmental factors can trigger allergic reactions, leading to atopic dermatitis. When inhaled by your dog, allergen particles like pollen, dust mites, grass, and mold can lead to inflammation of the skin, among other symptoms.

  1. Parasites

The itchy skin could also be a reaction to small parasites on your dog’s skin. Fleas, for example, are one of the most common causes for itchy skin in dogs. When a flea bites your pup, it can cause an allergic reaction, leading to flea allergy dermatitis and the incessant scratching you associate with fleas.

Mites are another possible parasite that could be affecting your pup. Mites can burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, and eventually leading to mange.

  1. Skin Infections

Skin infections are another common cause of itchy skin, including bacterial and yeast infections. Also known as hot spots, localized areas of bacterial infection on your dog’s skin can start as small, red spots but spread quickly, causing widespread, itchy, painful areas.

Similarly, fungal infections caused by yeast can cause itchy, greasy spots in your dog’s skin, typically in areas with folds.

Symptoms of Itchy Skin

Recognizing the symptoms of itchy skin can help you take action before the condition worsens. Common symptoms to look for in your dog include:

  • Excessive Scratching, Licking, or Biting: Dogs will often scratch, lick, or bite at itchy areas, leading to further irritation.
  • Redness and Inflammation: The affected areas may become red, inflamed, and swollen.
  • Hair Loss in Affected Areas: Continuous scratching and biting can result in hair loss and bald patches.
  • Odor: Especially if your dog’s itchy skin is caused by a skin infection, you may notice an unpleasant, musty odor.

Diagnosing Itchy Skin

Once you’ve started to recognize symptoms in your dog, it’s important to diagnose your pup as soon as possible to find effective treatment options. Here are some steps to consider:

Veterinary Consultation and Examination

A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination to identify the cause of your dog's itchy skin. They may conduct skin scrapings, allergy tests, or blood tests. Once diagnosed, your veterinarian will help you make a treatment plan to get your dog healthy and itch-free.

AnimalBiome Test Kits

These kits analyze your dog's gut microbiome, providing insights into imbalances that could be contributing to skin issues. By understanding the microbiome, you can tailor treatments more effectively.

Because you can purchase these kits at your local pet store, like The Fetching Dog, they can be a more cost-effective option than a visit to the vet

Treatment Options for Itchy Skin in Dogs

Once the cause of your dog's itchy skin has been identified, you can explore various treatment options:

1.   Supplements

Supplements such as those offered by The Fetching Dog can provide essential nutrients and support a healthy skin and coat. Look for products rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.

2.   FMTs (Fecal Microbiota Transplants)

FMTs, also known as stool transplants, can help restore a healthy gut microbiome, potentially alleviating skin issues.

With an FMT, your dog ingests an oral capsule of stool that contains healthy, species-specific gut microbes. This can help balance your dog’s gut microbiome, improving not only your dog’s itchy skin, but digestive disorders and various immune system issues as well.

3.   A nutritious, fiber-rich diet

If your dog’s allergies were food-related, ensuring your pup is on a healthy, allergen-free diet that supports their gut health is important for treatment and preventing future issues.

A healthy, low-carb, fiber-rich diet can also be beneficial, as it promotes the growth of good bacteria in your dog's gut. In some cases, even if your dog’s itchy skin wasn’t allergen-related, probiotics and good fiber are all it takes to alleviate your dog’s skin inflammation.

Fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn supports overall skin health. Green Juju freeze-dried and frozen products are excellent sources of probiotic fiber, along with Super Snouts GI Balance supplements.

By incorporating these into your dog's diet, you can help manage and prevent itchy skin issues.

4.   Oatmeal baths

Oatmeal has natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and hydrate your dog’s itchy skin. The oatmeal can also help build a protective layer on your dog’s skin to fight off minor skin irritation in the future.

You can purchase a dog-safe shampoo with oatmeal, or you can create your own oatmeal bath with ground, unflavored oatmeal and warm water.

5.   Hydration

If you want your dog to have healthy, moisturized skin, you have to keep them hydrated. Give your dog access to plenty of fresh, clean water throughout the day, and offer wet food, water, or broth mixed into their meals for even more hydration.

Preventing Itchy Skin in Dogs

To prevent future flare-ups of itchy skin in your dog, create healthy habits for your pup. Consider these tips:

  • A regular grooming schedule: Keep your dog's coat clean and free of irritants by grooming and bathing regularly. Use gentle, hypoallergenic shampoos, and make sure your dog’s skin fully dries to prevent hot spots.
  • Flea and Tick Prevention: Use flea and tick preventatives year-round to protect your dog from parasites that cause itching.
  • Healthy Diet and Supplements: Provide a balanced diet rich in nutrients and fiber. Supplements like those from Green Juju and Super Snouts are great options for supporting your dog’s overall health and preventing skin issues.
  • Chat with Staff at Your Local Pet Supply Store: The Fetching Dog offers a range of products specifically designed to help with itchy skin. These products are affordable and effective, making them an excellent choice for pet parents. Our staff are here to help you find the right products for your dog.

Soothe Your Dog’s Itchy Skin

Itchy skin can be a challenging issue for dogs and their owners, but with the right approach, it can be managed effectively.

By using AnimalBiome test kits, supplements, and FMTs, you can address the root causes of itchy skin and improve your dog's quality of life. Incorporating a healthy, fiber-rich diet can further support your dog’s gut and skin health.

Don't let itchy skin become a constant battle for your dog. Explore the range of products and other resources available at The Fetching Dog to find relief and enjoy a happy, itch-free summer with your furry friend.