Excessive scratching is a huge problem amongst household dogs. If a dog has any dermatological problem, three out of four times it will result in too much scratching. Scratching itself even amplifies the problem enormously. Excessive scratching may develop from skin infections, parasites, allergies, or sometimes nothing at all, but regardless of the cause, it must be treated quickly and the scratching must stop.

Just like in the cartoons, the most common reason that dogs feel an itch is due to fleas. Fleas are parasites that make their home on your pet’s skin, but their habitation is easily prevented. There are an enormous host of flea preventative products sold in stores that are safe and efficient, but many pet owners never take the time to take control of the problem or keep it from happening. There are monthly topical applications, weekly treatments, collars, and more, so there is a method for every owner and every dog. Dogs pick up fleas and other tiny parasites in their own backyard, so no pup is too good for proper flea treatment. Sometimes the itch from fleas becomes so overpowering that dogs will scratch bald spots on their skin and create very intense deep epidermal rashes.

Actual infections are somewhat less common, but do occur in dogs as well. Bacterial and yeast infections most commonly occur when a dogs are experiencing stress, illness, or severe allergies. During this time, the immune system in a dog’s skin is low, making them vulnerable to an attack. The interesting thing is that these bacterial or yeast organisms are always found on a dog’s skin. The problem is that their numbers have increased dramatically. These types of infections are fairly easy to identify and should be treated immediately, however the cause of the low immune system must be stopped as well. Bacterial infections can be diagnosed by the appearance of small bumps while smelly, greasy skin is characteristic of yeast infections. Treat the sickness first, and then the skin infection. This way the infection is less likely to return.

Allergies are second to fleas as the common cause of itchy dogs. Many dogs actually have allergic reactions to fleas themselves, creating a miserable scenario. Like humans, dogs also have environmental and seasonal allergies, but they are also more susceptible to dust mites, regular house dust, and molds. The normal human reaction to these kinds of allergies is usually sneezing, runny nose, sinus trouble, or occasionally a skin reaction. For dogs, allergens cause their trouble mostly through itchy skin. Even food allergies can case a skin reaction as well as intestinal problems. Dog allergies are easily treated with anti-inflammatories and shampoos, but these only treat the symptoms. Bring specific allergy problems to a veterinarian, who can determine the root of the problem so that the allergy can be prevented.

The causes of itchy skin can be prevented as well as cured. Dogs do not have to live a life of itching torment, and the habit of scratching their own skin can become a difficult one to break. That is why it is important to address the causes of scratching and treat them quickly and effectively.