Your dog is constantly scratching - but why does he do that?
Help, my dog keeps scratching! What should I do?
You've probably experienced it before: Your dog is sitting next to you, completely relaxed, and suddenly it starts – the incessant scratching. It might start with a gentle shake of the ear, then the paw moves to the neck, and before you know it, he's in the middle of a veritable scratching marathon. This can easily cause concern for a dog owner. Why does your dog scratch so often, and what can you do about it?
Possible reasons for scratching
There are many reasons why dogs constantly scratch. The most obvious reason, of course, is fleas. These little pests are not only annoying, but also quite difficult to get rid of once they've settled in the fur. A clear sign of fleas are small, black dots in the fur—these are the remains of flea droppings. But don't worry, fleas are easily treatable, and with a little patience and the right products, they'll quickly be history.
What other reasons are there for your dog to scratch - Allergy
But fleas aren't the only reason your dog constantly scratches. Allergies are another common trigger. Dogs can be allergic to anything: pollen, dust mites, certain foods, or even the materials their toys or sleeping area are made of. If you suspect an allergy might be the problem, it's best to consult a veterinarian. They can conduct tests to determine what your dog is allergic to and recommend appropriate treatment.
Another reason could be dry skin. Especially in the winter months, when the air in homes is very dry due to heating, your dog's skin can dry out. This then leads to itching and flaking. A special moisturizing cream for dogs or a high-quality oil in their food can help.
What can you do?
First, it's important to determine the cause of the itching. Observe when and where your dog scratches most often. Is it after a walk in the park? Or perhaps after eating? Sometimes it helps to keep a diary in which you note when your dog scratches and what he was doing shortly before. This can help you and your veterinarian identify the trigger more quickly.
If you suspect fleas are the cause, you can first comb through your dog's fur with a flea comb. If your suspicions are confirmed, there are special flea shampoos, sprays, and tablets that can provide quick relief. But don't forget to treat the surrounding area as well – the dog bed, carpets, and upholstered furniture should be thoroughly cleaned to remove all flea eggs and larvae.
If you suspect an allergy, it's important to identify and avoid the trigger. For food allergies, this may mean switching to hypoallergenic food. For environmental allergies, it can help to wipe your dog's coat with a damp cloth after a walk to remove any pollen or dust.
For dry skin, bathing your dog less frequently can help, as frequent bathing dries out the skin even more. Use a mild dog shampoo and make sure to dry your dog thoroughly. A few drops of high-quality fish oil or coconut oil in your dog's food can also support skin health from within.
Why herbs for allergies and itching?
Allergies in dogs can be triggered by various factors, such as environmental allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites), food allergies, or contact allergies. These allergies often manifest as skin problems such as itching, redness, dandruff, or hair loss.
Herbs for your dog's well-being when itching
Herbs can provide gentle and natural support for allergies and itching in dogs.
When should you go to the vet?
If your dog's scratching persists for weeks, if he develops bald patches in his coat, or if you notice him scratching himself raw, you should definitely consult a veterinarian. This could be a serious skin condition that requires specialized treatment.
In some cases, a hormonal disorder, such as hypothyroidism, can also be the problem. These conditions can usually be treated well with medication, but require a precise diagnosis.
Liver herbs for dogs
