How to Relieve Dog Scratching Due to Dry Skin

Dry skin plagues certain dogs in the same way it does humans. The problem commonly leads to itching, which may cause your dog to scratch uncontrollably, leading to rashes or even bleeding. To relieve dry skin, you can use multiple remedies, some of which are similar or even identical to remedies used for human beings with dry skin. Some methods may prove more effective than others on your particular dog, so try different methods to provide relief.

Things You'll Need

  • Canine shampoo/conditioner
  • Chamomile tea
  • Aloe vera juice
  • Oatmeal
  • High quality dog food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe your dog using a specialized canine shampoo that contains vitamin A, vitamin E, humectants and silk, wheat or oat proteins. After rinsing the shampoo, apply a canine conditioner containing chamomile, vitamin E, hydrolyzed oat proteins and natural oils. Bathe the dog when you notice excessive scratching, but try to limit bathing to a couple of times per month. Excessive bathing can worsen dry skin in dogs.

    • 2

      Rinse your dog's coat with cool chamomile tea to provide quick relief for scratching and dry skin. Chamomile contains natural moisturizing properties that relieve dry skin and irritation upon contact. Some pet supply manufacturers also sell a chamomile spray designed especially for dogs. Check your local pet supply store.

    • 3

      Spread natural aloe vera juice over visual lesions and over any areas where redness appears on your dog's skin. For best results, use the liquid straight from the plant. If using a bottled aloe vera juice, read the ingredients and make sure that the product is made from 100 percent natural aloe vera juice.

    • 4

      Make a pot of fresh oatmeal using real oats and boiling water. Use just enough water to create a thick paste; allow it to cool, and then apply it directly to the dog's skin for soothing relief. .

    • 5

      Improve your dog's diet. A poor diet can negatively affect the quality of your dog's skin and coat, leading to dryness and scratching. Avoid table scraps and feed your dog high quality meat-based dog food, high in protein and fortified with vitamins.

    • 6

      Visit your veterinarian to determine if your dog has a more-serious problem if home remedies don't help. Frequent scratching and dry skin may indicate a form of dermatitis, an allergy or even a parasite. A veterinarian can determine the exact cause.