Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with our dogs, but it can also bring a series of dermatological problems, one of the most common being itchy skin. If you have noticed that your dog scratches frequently, licks excessively, or shows signs of skin irritation, it is important to understand the possible causes of this itching and how to treat it properly.
In this article, we explain the possible causes of itching in dogs during the summer, as well as treatment and preventive measures to keep your furry friend comfortable and free from irritation.
Why does my dog keep scratching? - Causes
Food allergies
Some dogs may be sensitive to certain food ingredients, which can lead to itchiness and skin rashes. They can also develop intolerances to colorings, preservatives, or flavorings. Symptoms can include intense itching, skin redness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Flea dermatitis
Fleas are more common in warmer months and can cause irritation and intense itching in our furry friends' skin. Even a single flea can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive dogs. The presence of fleas can cause itching, redness, small bumps, and hair loss.
Contact dermatitis in dogs
Contact with certain plants, chemicals, or irritating materials can cause allergic contact dermatitis in dogs, which manifests as itching and skin redness. During the summer, dogs may come into contact with plants like poison ivy, which can trigger an allergic skin reaction.
Environmental allergies
This is the most complex of all, as it is difficult to determine which environmental substance is causing it. It can be caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites. One of the symptoms can include itchy skin, in addition to red and watery eyes. It tends to worsen in spring.
What to do if my dog keeps scratching? - Treatment
Consult your vet
If your dog experiences persistent itching or signs of skin irritation, it is important to seek veterinary attention. The veterinarian can perform a complete examination, determine the cause of the itching, and recommend appropriate treatment. Treatment will vary depending on the cause, and may include medications, dietary changes, special shampoos, etc.
We recommend checking out our natural shampoo for dogs, which has helped many of our furry clients fight their itching and irritations.
Allergy treatment
For environmental or food allergies, your veterinarian may recommend antihistamine medications to control allergic symptoms and reduce itching. In some cases, an elimination diet may be recommended to identify and avoid trigger foods. And in more severe cases, corticosteroids or other medications may be necessary to relieve inflammation and reduce itching. *It is very important to consult your veterinarian before medicating your furry friend.
Flea and parasite control
If the cause of the itching is flea dermatitis or other parasites, it is important to implement an effective flea control treatment that includes the use of products prescribed by your veterinarian. This may include topical treatments, collars, or oral medications. Additionally, it is important to treat all animals in the home and maintain a sanitized environment through regular house cleaning.
Dog skin care
Keep your dog's skin clean and healthy by using gentle, skin-friendly shampoos. Our shampoo contains 99% natural ingredients with soothing and antiseptic properties to relieve itching and reduce skin irritation. Want to know more about its benefits? Read this post where we explain everything you need to know about natural shampoos for dogs.
How to prevent my dog from itching? - Preventive measures
Maintain proper hygiene
Bathe your dog regularly using gentle shampoos suitable for their skin type. This will help remove allergens and irritants from their coat and skin. Here is a post with some tips for bathing your dog.
Brush your dog's coat regularly
Regular brushing helps remove dead hair, allergens, and potential irritants from your furry friend's skin, thus reducing the likelihood of itching. Additionally, brushing promotes blood circulation and overall skin and coat health. Try our new organic bamboo dog brush, suitable for long and short hair.
Avoid contact with known allergens
If you know your dog is allergic to certain environmental allergens such as pollen or dust, avoid exposing them to these substances as much as possible. Limit their outdoor activities during times of high allergen concentration and keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering the house.
Proper nutrition
Provide your furry friend with a balanced and high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. A healthy diet strengthens their immune system and contributes to skin health. We recommend our food supplement for dogs specifically for skin and coat. Its 100% natural ingredients help boost your furry friend's immune system and promote healthy skin, free from irritations, rashes, or itching. Additionally, their coat will look healthier and shinier.
As we have seen, itchy skin in dogs during the summer can be uncomfortable for both them and us, as guardians concerned about their well-being. Identifying the cause of the itching is essential to provide them with appropriate treatment and alleviate their discomfort.
Always remember to consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and follow their recommendations for treatment and prevention. With proper care and preventive measures, you can keep your furry friend healthy and free from itching during the warmer months of the year.