Dog Itchy Skin Problems

The Facts

• According to the Pet Center website, one of the most common calls made by pet owners to veterinary hospitals concerns dog itchy skin. Many owners instinctively think that parasites, such as fleas, are the reason for their dogs' scratching problems. While this is often the case, there are other potential causes. The dog's veterinarian will likely run a few tests to determine the problem, then base the dog's treatment for the puritis, or itchy skin, on the results.

Causes

• The Doctors Foster and Smith website states allergies are one of the leading reasons for itchy skin among canines. When allergens, such as trees, weed pollen or house dust are inhaled they cause the dog's body to produce a protein that attaches itself to mast cells in the skin. This process causes the body to release antihistamines, which can cause reactions in the skin. Allergies to ingredients in the dog's diet can also cause skin flare-ups. In addition, mange and yeast are also common reasons for itchy skin.

Diagnosis

• Performing allergy testing on a dog will pinpoint the antigens causing itchy skin. Parasites are often deemed the cause of itchy skin when either seen with the naked eye or under a microscope. To diagnose mange, the doctor will use a blade to scrape skin cells off the dog, then look under the scope to detect them. Diagnoses of yeast infections can be made through culture and sensitivities, which will determine the cause of the problems, as well as the medication that can resolve it.

Treatment

• The Doctors Foster and Smith website states that allergies are often treated with antihistamines, fatty acid supplements and sometimes steroids. Dogs that are suspected of having food allergies are placed on diets that contain proteins they have likely never eaten before, such as venison or rabbit. Parasites are typically treated with insecticides. Yeast infections are treated with medications that are designed to eliminate the culprit; however, most dogs with yeast infections typically have underlying issues that must first be resolved before successful resolution can take place.

Prevention

• Preventing certain skin problems is sometimes possible, depending upon the cause. Apply a flea preventative to your pooch to keep fleas and their potential problems at bay. In addition, avoid allowing interaction between your dog and any dog that is suspected of having mange or other parasites. Feed your dog a high-quality diet that is free of artificial colors, flavors or preservatives to potentially prevent food allergies. In addition, give your dog fatty acid supplements to help protect the dog's skin from allergens.