It is normal for dogs to scratch themselves every day as part of their self-grooming routine. But it is not normal if a dog scratches so much that bald patches or skin inflammation appears. The danger is that the dog will scratch so much the skin will rip open and become infected.
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Initial Inspection
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Get a closer look at where the dog is scratching. You may need to provide a chew treat in order to distract the dog long enough for you to check the itchy spot. Causes for scratching can include parasites, infections, allergies or injuries. Puppies and older dogs are prone to getting ringworm, a fungal infection. The ringworm itself is not itchy at first, but can be as it progresses. Check for bald patches, flaking or crusty skin, blood, discoloration, strange smells, any discharge from the skin or little strange specks in the fur. Fleas can be difficult to spot, but their droppings look like black dandruff. Take this black dandruff and place it on a moist paper towel. If the black specks turn blood red, that is proof of flea droppings.
Veterinary Inspection
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Even if the cause of the dog's itching seems apparent, the dog should still be seen by the vet, especially if it has ripped its skin open. Antibiotic medications may be needed to avoided infection. Causes of extreme dog itching like ringworm or ear infections need to be treated with medications. The vet may need to do a skin scraping in order to determine the cause of the itching. If the dog will not stop scratching, an Elizabethan cone collar or a softer, more flexible Bite Not collar may be in order. According to Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook (Debra M. Eldredge, DVM, et al; 2007) cortisone creams may be prescribed to help suppress the body's immune system, which can cause inflammation and itchiness. If the vet suspects allergies are causing the scratching (especially if hives are present), the dog may be given antihistamines such as over the counter human Benadryl (diphenhydramine). The dosage for dogs is 2 milligrams per pound that the dog weighs.
Hot Spots
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Acute moist dermatitis (hot spots) are a special concern for dogs because they are persistently itchy. According to Marty Smith, DVM, hot spots can be treated by trimming the fur around the area and letting the air dry it out. The spot may be bathed daily with a gentle antiseptic solution such as Nolvasan. Since hot spots are caused by a variety of reasons, any medications the dog may take can vary according to the cause. If the dog is in pain, the vet may recommend buffered aspirin as a painkiller.
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