Dry and itchy skin has to be one of the most common conditions that vets deal with. As you can imagine, the condition is quite uncomfortable for your dog and can become frustrating for you if your dog keeps scratching, chewing, or licking the affected areas.
So, in this post, we will look at some common cause for dry and itchy dog spin and hopefully help you identify what’s specifically wrong with your pup. Nevertheless, we recommend that you see a vet so that they can recommend the best treatment plan.
Skin parasites
The first thing you should do when you notice your dog scratching is to look for fleas. The tiny bloodsuckers puncture your dog’s skin to get their fill and that can be irritating. Worse still, fleas can cause tapeworm infections and allergy reactions. If your dog is hypersensitive to flea saliva, they will experience intense itching not just on the bitten part but all over their body. Mange mites are other parasites that are known to cause hair loss, scabs, and itchiness in dogs’ skin.
Allergies
Dry or itchy skin could also be as a result of your dog’s allergy to certain things. This could range from food items such as chicken, soya wheat, and corn to environmental factors such as mold spores, pollen, and dust mites.
Bacterial or Fungal Infection
Ringworm is one good example of a fungal infection that can cause lesions on your dog’s skin. What’s worse, dogs with dry and itchy skin have a higher chance of getting bacterial and fungal infections as they expose themselves due to incessant chewing and scratching that opens up their skin.
Weather
A change in temperature and humidity is also known to cause dry and itchy skin in dogs. It doesn’t have to be natural. Air conditioners and home heaters will also have the same effect.
Over-bathing
Yes, your dog’s itchiness could be due to allergic reactions to bathing products but it could also be because you are giving them too many showers. This depletes the skin of its natural oils and can also damage the hair follicles.
Poor nutrition
If your dog isn’t getting enough proteins or the essential fatty acids then they could develop a dry, itchy skin. Talk to your vet so that they can help you plan the best meal plan that includes all the necessary nutrients for your dog.