Reasons Why Your Pet May Be Itchy: Understanding Common Causes And Treatment

As a pet parent, I have always woken up to my dogs Luna and Max going to town scratching, licking and shaking their ears, paws and back.
Initially, I'd murmur a sleepy 'no' or 'please, guys, stop' before drifting back to sleep. Despite years of experience with my dogs, I realised there is always something new to learn, especially regarding their persistent itchiness.
Once, I consulted a professional about the various reasons why my dogs were persistently scratching themselves. Now, I realise how important it is to share this information with other pet parents like me!
Consulting a veterinarian unveiled various underlying causes for their discomfort, from environmental allergens to potential skin infections. Understanding these factors has been enlightening, and I feel compelled to share this knowledge with fellow pet parents to help them guide similar challenges. 

Why exactly is my dog so itchy?

 Unfortunately, the very act of your dog's scratching themselves may also be a simple act of self - cleansing. The key is to pay close attention to your dog's behaviour.

I spent some time “calculating” and by calculating, I mean stared at Luna scratching herself and realised how uncomfortable her facial expressions as well as body language were. 

Like most pet parents, I turned to Google for answers but was overwhelmed by the amount of information available. Ultimately, I decided to take her to the vet.

There are four main reasons why a dog may be itchy. 

• Food - related allergies - We love our dogs so much that it's hard to resist giving them some harmless-looking munchies. But what many pet parents don't realise is that even simple ingredients like sweet biscuits, processed meats, or certain fruits can trigger food-related allergies that manifest as skin irritations.

Just like how humans can react poorly to certain foods, our furry friends can experience adverse reactions as well. So, it's important to be mindful of what we feed them and to watch out for any signs of allergies or sensitivities.

• Fungal Dermatitis- There are many types of fungal infections, but one of the most common one found in India is known as ‘Fungal Cryptococcus’ this is most commonly occurring in areas where birds like pigeons gather in a large number. Now, this flock meeting may be very cute to look at, but our dogs cannot digest the soil around these areas as it can be toxic to their skin as well as their respiratory systems. Which is great because I don’t truly enjoy Max and Luna attempting a Tom Cruise-style pursuit of these unsuspecting birds.
• Ear Wax - Now this was a new one. What I learnt from my vet is that ear wax may be harmful to a dog depending on how sensitive their body may be. This may also lead to a painful infection which involves a lot of regular ear cleaning and massaging ear drops in their ears. This can be a tiring process so it’s always good to get them checked any time we visit a vet and participate in some regular grooming at the HUFT spa.
• Wrong Shampoos - Every dog shampoo has been designed differently.  Some are good for a shiny coat, and some are relatively stronger as they are tick avoidant shampoos. It is important to see how your dog is reacting to the shampoo of your choice as many times certain chemicals can also lead to fungal infections.

Environmental Factors 

• Rainy Season - Monsoons are a fun time in general. Yet our excited pups getting themselves wet in the rain can end up hampering their immune system leading to skin infections and an itchy dog as well. The air quality was not what it was years ago, and rainwater isn’t exactly clean. If the circumstances are unavoidable and your dog does rebel and gets drenched in the rain, the correct shampoo and a good towel chase around the house can save you from worrying about their health.
• Soil - I know this one is weird and makes me sound like a pandemic parent but believe it or not, the soil in dog parks may contain harmful particles that can affect your dog's health. While younger dogs with strong immunity may not be bothered by it, older dogs or those with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable. So, if you're a senior dog parent or have a dog with health issues, it's important to be cautious and avoid letting them play in muddy areas.
• Plants and flowers- There are lists of plant and flower species such as Lilies and Orchids which are poisonous for dogs. A good frame-able picture of your pup with a flower must be avoided at all costs

How to Treat the Dog Allergy & Skin Infections

Addressing your dog's skin allergies and infections requires a blend of awareness and effective solutions. Utilising natural remedies can offer relief and promote healing. 

Opting for shampoos free from sulphates and parabens, enriched with ingredients like aloe vera and apple cider vinegar, can soothe and heal irritated skin while combating bacteria and fungi. 

Incorporating oatmeal baths into your dog's routine can also alleviate itching and inflammation, as oatmeal possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, applying coconut oil can moisturise dry, itchy areas and provide antibacterial benefits. 

It is essential to monitor your pet for any adverse reactions and consult with a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.

Parenting is tough. No matter how many dogs you care for, whether they are Indie babies who have survived under harsh conditions or a particular breed with skin conditions. The common consensus always takes us to a point where we are learning and growing as pet parents every single day. Our furry friends deserve all the love and support, and we are here for them! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1 Are there any home remedies for my itchy dog? 

Yes, there are. Aloe-vera, chamomile tea soaks and apple cider vinegar can heal mild yeast infections and reduce irritant feelings of itchiness. Yet, it is important to note that none of these should be used without getting a heads up from a vet to avoid any sudden reactions from your dog's skin. 

Q2 Can hair loss be a possible effect of my dog's skin allergies?

Yes. If your dog has been shedding more than usual, going to a vet for a checkup will help prevent any harm!

Many times, food allergies can translate in the form of itching, dry skin and other allergic reactions.

Q3 How can we treat a flea allergy? 

A consultation with your vet and the correct form of antibiotics can easily help heal an allergy caused by a flea infestation. 

Q4 What are certain common flowers that can cause my dog to be itchy?

Plants such as tulips, lilies, chrysanthemums, carnations, and dahlias contain substances that may lead to allergic reactions or dermatitis upon contact. For instance, chrysanthemums are known to cause skin irritation in dogs. Similarly, exposure to lilies and tulips can result in adverse skin reactions. 
To ensure your dog's health and comfort, it is always recommended to monitor their interactions with these plants and consult your veterinarian if you notice any signs of irritation.