When your dog is itchy and uncomfortable, you may not know what to do. Here are a few reasons why your dog may be scratching incessantly and how a veterinarian can help. 

What Causes Itchiness in Dogs? 

Allergies and pest infestations are two of the top culprits for itchiness in dogs. Unfortunately, both issues can be difficult to detect.

If your animal has a thick coat, it can be tricky to spot ticks, especially if the bugs aren’t fully engorged. Keep your animal’s coat well-trimmed to screen for pests more easily. When looking for ticks, run your hands over their skin to feel for tiny bumps. If you find a bump, inspect the area for a tick. 

Some dogs can have allergic reactions to flea bites that cause swelling, hair loss, hot spots, and even infections. Inspect your animal’s fur with a flea comb regularly, particularly after they’ve been playing outdoors. 

Dogs can also have seasonal or food allergies because of everything from grass and pollen to dairy and eggs. When you feed your pet something new, pay attention to how they react afterward. 

If your pet has a skin condition that causes itching, such as psoriasis or a yeast infection, a veterinarian who has experience in pet dermatology can identify and treat it. 

How Can Your Veterinarian Help? 

In addition to checking your animal for pests and watching what they eat, seek a veterinarian’s services to keep your pet comfortable. Anti-flea and tick medications can eliminate or prevent pest infestations, and prescription shampoos can help quell lingering symptoms. Veterinarians can also treat any diseases contracted from ticks.

For allergies, your vet may prescribe an elimination diet. Your dog will be given a hydrolyzed protein diet, and foods will be added back to their daily diet one at a time to identify the allergen. The vet can also prescribe medication for seasonal allergies. 

If the vet finds signs of skin diseases, they may prescribe creams, lotions, or soaps to reduce itchiness and help your dog recover. 

When your pet has a skin condition, turn to The Pet Clinic in Honolulu, HI. Dr. Scott Harada is an active member of the American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology, so his expertise will allow him to diagnose your dog’s condition. Learn more about how the clinic can help by visiting their website, or call (808) 946-5096 to schedule a checkup.