Information on Itchy Skin on Dogs

Itching in dogs is a common problem that has many different causes. Dogs that itch and scratch excessively often develop sores, hot spots and hair loss. Your veterinarian will help you determine the cause of your dog's itching by eliminating the most common causes first.

  1. Causes

    • According to Dog Breed, the 10 most common causes of itching in dogs are flea infestation, airborne allergies, contact allergies, allergies to certain foods, bacterial skin infections, fungal infections, such as yeast, seborrhea and diseases such as liver disease or cancer. Infestation with parasites are another top cause of itching in dogs. The presence of mites, lice or scabies is another common cause of severe itching.

    Diagnosis

    • Determining the cause of itching in dogs is done by the process of elimination. New foods should be eliminated, flea treatments will be administered to rid the dog of any infestation, and the veterinarian will perform an examination for parasites. Dogs who have severe itching accompanied by a foul odor, may have a genetic condition known as Sebaceous Adenitis or SA, common in dog breeds such as the poodle and German shepherd. SA is often diagnosed by breed and the examination of skin biopsies.

    Treatment

    • Treatments for canine itching depend on the underlying cause of the condition. Bathing the dog in a cool bath may help ease the itching, and oatmeal baths often help quell the urge to scratch. Antihistamine medications will relieve some types of itching in dogs, and many of these medicines are available over-the-counter. Never give your dog any medication without checking with your veterinarian for the proper dosage.