Itching, scratching, and licking can not only be annoying, they are signs your dog has a skin condition known as dermatitis. Let our Stockton veterinary find out what might be causing these skin problems and how to treat them.
Skin Conditions That Cause Itching & Irritability
It's normal for most dogs to be a little itchy at some point. It can often be annoying for your dog but not necessarily cause for concern. Some conditions can be serious and require a trip to the vet for treatment and to prevent them from becoming worse.
Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
There are several reasons to consider if you've caught yourself wondering "why is my dog scratching so much?" Some of the more common ones include:
Parasitic Bites
One of the most common reasons your dog is itching are bites from fleas and mites, thankfully they are also one of the easiest to treat. Your vet will prescribe medication to resolve the issues. Preventive solutions are also available for these types of parasites so they don't become a problem in the first place.
Environmental Dermatitis
This is a skin irritation that develops due to contact with certain substances, such as grass, dirt, and plants. Symptoms include itchy/dry or cracked skin, blisters, rashes, swelling, or redness.
Suggested ways to alleviate this condition include antihistamines or oatmeal baths. Your vet may recommend a cortisone cream or other alternative depending on the severity.
Nutritional Dermatitis
Sometimes issues can originate from allergic reactions to ingredients in their food. Typically, nutritional dermatitis results in skin irritations and scratching, but digestive issues may happen as well, such as diarrhea or vomiting. If your dog is displaying either type of symptom, it's best to make an appointment with your vet.
Skin Allergies
Some dogs are prone to allergies, making this a somewhat common reason to visit the vet. Allergens that cause itching can be found in pollen, dander, plants or insects, among other things.
Some of the symptoms aside from itching include excessive grooming or licking, rashes, watery eyes and sneezing, and inflamed skin. Your vet may be able to diagnose what is causing the allergy and will recommend treatment as well as ways to prevent future allergic reactions.
Hives
Another type of allergic reaction is hives. Hives can be a reaction to many things, from bites or medications. Symptoms show as a raised bump that would cause the dog's fur to stick out.
Occasionally, hives will present with swelling near the eyes. Bathing with Hypoallergenic shampoo can help relieve your dog of uncomfortable symptoms. A hydrating leave-in conditioner may also help. Ask your vet what they recommend for your pet.
Emergency Cases
If your dog's itching persists for more than a few days, you should make an appointment so your vet can diagnose the issue and treat it. Prolonged itching can cause excessive scratching and biting at the itch which can create a self-inflicted injury. This can become serious if left unchecked.
