Just like milk and cookies and peas and carrots, itchy skin and hair loss in dogs often go together. Itchy skin and hair loss are symptoms of a variety of canine ailments. Unfortunately, unless you know the cause of these problems, they likely will not permanently subside. However, there are a few things you can do to help manage the hair loss and itchy skin until you are able to take your dog to a veterinarian for a full diagnosis and proper treatment.
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Minimize Contact With Other Pets
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Because hair loss and itchy skin are symptoms of a variety of issues--some of which are contagious to humans and other pets--it's best to keep contact to a minimum or completely avoid it, if possible. According to PetMD.com, hair loss and itchy skin are symptoms of sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies. Scabies is an extremely contagious condition that is caused by a mite. Another transmittable condition with symptoms that include hair loss and itchy skin is ringworm---a contagious fungus that affects the skin on dogs. Therefore, until you know what is causing the issues in your dog, it is best to keep it away from others to avoid further transmission.
Moisturizing Treatments
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To help manage the itchiness and hair loss in a dog's skin, try treating it with moisturizing products. Gentle shampoos, conditioners and sprays that contain moisturizers can be helpful in stopping the discomfort your dog may feel as a result of the condition it is experiencing. Bathe your dog with hypoallergenic shampoos, or those that contain colloidal oatmeal, once every two weeks to help soothe the itchiness of your dog. See your veterinarian to find out what product may best treat your pet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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Dogs that are experiencing itchy skin and hair loss as a result of allergies may find comfort when treated with omega-3 fatty acid supplements. According to PetEducation.com, omega-3 fatty acids work with the skin to reduce the effects caused by histamines and other substances the body releases when exposed to allergens. The supplements can also improve the quality of the dog's coat. Not every allergy dog will respond to this type of treatment and those that will may take several weeks to do so. Follow the dosage instructions on the package label, because the dosage varies.
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