Dog owners want the best for their beloved pets. That includes providing their dogs the best treatment possible when they have itchy skin or allergies. If you find your dog scratching or chewing at their skin, there are lots of different things you can do to help them feel better.
Here are some of the most effective ways you can get rid of your dog’s itchy skin.
Do Not Feed Your Dog Table Scraps
Most of us know that feeding your dog table scraps can cause weight gain and an upset stomach. However, did you know it can also lead to allergies?
Table scraps are an easy way to spoil your dog and make them feel loved, but they are not a great source of nutrition for dogs. While you may believe that your dog is getting just enough protein and vitamins from the occasional bite of chicken or steak, in truth, it is not getting any nutritional benefit. A lack of nutritious meals can hamper their immune system making them more vulnerable to allergies.
Instead, feed your dog regular dog food alongside occasional treats. Keep things balanced when it comes to feeding your dog. Too many treats will increase its weight, while too much regular dog food might bore your dog.
Experiment with Food
Food allergies are very common in dogs. So, try some new foods to see if you can find one that works for your dog. If you know that certain foods cause your dog’s skin to flare up, try eliminating them from his diet entirely.
Do not change the diet abruptly, however. Let your dog ease into it. Sudden dietary changes can upset your dog’s stomach.
Some food allergies are seasonal. In these cases, it may be necessary only during those times of the year when symptoms flare up again.
Bathe Your Dog With a Good Shampoo
Bathing your dog is an important part of keeping its skin clean and healthy. Most dogs will love the attention that comes with a bath. You can use this time to check for fleas or ticks as well. Be sure to use a good dog shampoo that is pH balanced, fragrance-free, tear-free, and has hypoallergenic formulations to avoid irritation. Never use regular shampoo on a dog. The chemical compositions in these shampoos are not suitable for a pooch.
Seek Help from Your Vet
To help your dog get rid of its itchy skin, vets will likely suggest natural skin soothers. They may also prescribe medications like Apoquel for dogs as they can also soothe your dog’s skin and help get rid of skin irritation. Of course, your vet will first want to take a good look at your dog. So, do that first and listen to what the vet has to say.
Modify Your Home Environment
In addition to your dog’s diet, one of the most important things you can do to help an itchy pup is to modify your home environment.
Allergens are everywhere and can be a major irritant for dogs with sensitive skin. Some of the most common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander (skin particles). You must remove these allergens from your home as much as possible. One way to do this is by using air purification systems, such as HEPA filters or air purifiers. You should also clean all surfaces in your house regularly and frequently vacuum with a high-quality vacuum cleaner that can get rid of pet hair.
If you notice signs of allergy in your dogs, such as excessive licking or scratching around their face or feet, consider installing a dehumidifier. That is because humidity often exacerbates allergies in dogs who suffer from seasonal allergies like grass pollen allergies during spring.
Consider Natural Remedies
There are several natural remedies you can opt for to deal with your dog’s allergies and itchy skin. These include:
- Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet. They can help reduce inflammation, which can help relieve itching.
- Give your pooch probiotics and digestive enzymes. They help balance out the bacteria in your dog’s gut, which may be causing some intestinal discomfort leading it to scratch more often than usual.
- Feeding your dog glucosamine and chondroitin supplements which can reduce swelling associated with arthritis. They also have similar benefits when it comes to alleviating itching.
Dogs are often itchy. However, if you maintain the standards and follow the treatment guidelines we have discussed above, your dog can surely get rid of allergies and skin irritation.