Itching, scratching and licking in dogs is a common issue to such an extent that a dog not indulge in any of these can be deemed abnormal. However, frequent itching in dogs can be the sign of serious underlying health problems.

As a pet parent, it is imperative to understand why your pooch is itching throughout the day as it can make a big difference if you act according as early as possible. This smart move can help you save some crucial money. For achieving this, it is imperative for you to be knowledgeable about the different reasons for dog itching.

Nutrition

Lower quality diet can easily trigger itchiness in pets. Pet diet that lacks omega 3 fatty acids, digestive enzymes can lead to itchiness and other skin infections. It is highly recommended that you choose the diets for your dog carefully, understand the ingredients and do a Google search if necessary.

Always keep in mind that cheap food for dogs can contribute to expensive vet bills. Choose natural and if possible homemade food for your dog.

Skin infections

Constant dog itching is one of the classic symptoms of skin infections. Hard to identify, skin infections if not treated quickly, can lead to wound and other serious health hazards.

On some occasions, dogs get diagnosed with an infection type called “hot spot” or localized skin infection, which is known to be extremely itchy and requires medical attention to heal. At times, dogs can also get infected with yeast; this can be intense especially for dogs with skin folds on face like bulldogs or boxers. The infection can be smelly and requires to be attended via medicated shampoos or wipes.

Atopy

Atopy (airborne allergy) is a dermatitis condition diagnosed as an allergic reaction to the environment. The condition is characterized by generalized itching. These allergies are not easily diagnosable and as the other possible causes needs to be ruled out.

Pets can also be allergic to household cleaning items or other chemical products.

Food allergies

Food allergies can also trigger itching in dogs. Food allergies can be easily treated by removing all the suspected allergens and reintroducing the diet one by one. Dog can be allergic to beef and milk. On most of the occasions, diets dominated by novel protein and raw food diets can help to alleviate the concern of food allergies.   

Genetics

Some breeds of dogs and cats are more vulnerable to skin irritations. Dogs with additional facial skin folds like bulldogs and boxers, mainly brachycephalic dog breeds are sensitive to skin infections. Factors like temperament, emotional stresses like anxiety, can also lead to issue relating to skin infection.

Fleas

Constant flea attacks can make your dog allergic to flea bites. The allergy may present itself as hair loss and rashes on the skin. The allergic reaction to flea is called as Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), makes the dog allergic to flea saliva.

If you live in a flea infested area, make it a point to take necessary precautions to counter flea skin irrigations.     

Dog itching can be a common issue, however, it is important that you are able to understand when this can be overseen and when it should be considered as a serious issue. Spending some time with your pooch is the recommended solution to tackle this.