How to Stop My Puppy From Itching

Puppy allergies are common and can be caused by a number of things: detergents used to clean bedding or clothing, food, fleas or common allergens including dust, pollen and smoke. According to VetInfo, symptoms typically appear within 2 to 3 days of being exposed to an allergen and often include chewing or scratching. If the itching is due to allergies, environmental adjustments, low doses of antihistamines and steroids, flea prevention and diet changes are recommended to prevent and treat allergies.

Things You'll Need

  • Antihistamine medication
  • Anti-flea shampoo
  • Flea prevention treatment
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Take your puppy to the veterinarian, who may prescribe antihistamines and steroids to alleviate allergy symptoms. Administer all medications as directed by the veterinarian. Antihistamines should be changed after several months of use because the puppy's immune system can build resistance to the medication, according to VetInfo.

    • 2

      Evaluate your puppy's diet. Your puppy may be allergic to an ingredient in its food, and determining that ingredient may require a food trial. The veterinarian will prescribe 12-week "exclusion diet" that gradually reintroduces foods to your puppy's diet. An allergic reaction will occur when the offending allergen is reintroduced in the diet.

    • 3

      Wash your puppy's bedding and clothing in a dye-free and fragrance-free laundry detergent. Some detergents may cause an allergic reaction such as rashes and itching. Hypoallergenic detergents are available at your local grocery store as well as pet stores.

    • 4

      Bathe your dog in an anti-flea shampoo. If fleas are the cause of your puppy's itching, weekly bathing kills adult fleas and newly hatched eggs over time. Wash the dog's bedding in the hottest temperature setting possible to prevent fleas from reinfecting your dog. Use topical flea treatments such as Frontline and Advantage to kill adult fleas and keep fleas from attacking your puppy. These treatments are available through a veterinarian, who will prescribe the correct dosage for your dog.