Itchy Dog? Top 7 Questions to Ask
It’s no fun to itch all day! Sure, dogs itch a little normally, but when they are losing a lot of hair or making themselves bleed, that is not normal.
Here are the top 7 things to consider if your dog is super itchy!
1. Are they on flea medication?
Fleas are the number one cause of itchiness, even if your dog never goes outside! Fleas can hitch a ride on your clothes or other pets, making it easy for them to infest your home and your dog.
2. What type of flea medication are they on?
Some older types of flea medication, such as Advantage, might not work as well.
Some over-the-counter flea medications do not work at all or could actually be dangerous for some pets!
It’s crucial to use a modern, effective, and prescription-strength flea treatment to ensure the best results.
3. Are the flea medication instructions being properly followed?
It’s important to read the directions. Does it say to apply it on the skin or give it orally?
Is it to be administered every month or every three months?
An incorrect dosing schedule or method can render flea treatments ineffective.
4. Is there something that causes them to itch?
Sometimes season changes can cause itchiness.
Allergies may also be the trigger of itchiness.
Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or mold can lead to itching. Food allergies are another common cause, and identifying the specific allergen can be a process of elimination with the help of your vet.
5. What do you bathe your dog with?
Some shampoos might cause your dog to be even more itchy! It’s essential to use a hypoallergenic, dog-specific shampoo. Human shampoos or harsh chemicals can strip the natural oils from your dog’s skin, leading to dryness and increased itching.
Consult your vet for recommendations on suitable bathing products.
6. Are people getting itchy around your dog?
Some diseases are zoonotic (able to be spread to humans) such as ringworm.
If you or other household members are experiencing itchiness, it’s possible that your dog could be the source of a zoonotic infection. Ringworm, mites, and certain bacterial infections can be transmitted between pets and humans, necessitating prompt veterinary and medical attention.
7. What else is different about your dog?
Some hormone diseases, like hypothyroidism, can cause very bad skin, tiredness, and weight gain.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough of a hormone that regulates the metabolism. Diseases like this need to be addressed with hormone therapy, and the skin issues from hypothyroidism will likely not resolve until the underlying hormone levels are addressed.
Other systemic diseases, such as Cushing’s disease, can also lead to skin problems and should be assessed by your vet.
Additional Considerations
Consult Your Vet:
Persistent itching despite flea treatment might indicate other underlying issues such as skin infections, mange, or allergies. A thorough veterinary examination can help diagnose and treat these conditions effectively.
In conclusion, while fleas are a common cause of itching in dogs, they are not the only cause.
Ensuring the proper use of effective flea treatments, considering environmental factors, and consulting with your vet are essential steps in managing your dog’s itchiness. If you are in doubt, always talk to your vet as they are there to help you and your pet!