Home Remedies for Dogs with Itchy Skin

Only a veterinarian can diagnose your dog’s skin complaint and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Why is my dog so itchy?

Itchy skin is medically known as pruritis. It is a symptom rather than a medical condition itself, with many possible causes. Here are some of the causes of itchy skin in dogs:

• Fleas
• Mites or lice
• Allergies
• Dry skin
• Infections (bacterial or yeast)
• Ringworm
• Hormonal conditions
• Anxiety or boredom
• Immune-mediated disease
• Skin cancer

Only a veterinarian can diagnose your dog’s skin complaint and prescribe appropriate treatment. The good news is that there are things you can do at home too, to help keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy.

What home remedy can I use for my dog’s itching?

If your dog is itching and uncomfortable, or you’ve noticed any changes to their fur or skin, then it’s time for a trip to your veterinarian! There are many possible causes for skin complaints, some more serious than others. Sometimes the problem can even be internal, such as a hormonal condition. In many cases, attempting home remedies will delay appropriate treatment and may even make the condition worse. 

First, common things are common! If you notice your dog itching all of a sudden, check if they are up to date with their flea prevention. Fleas are a very common cause of itching in dogs, and unfortunately, you may not actually notice the fleas until there are a lot of them! Itching is often the first thing a pet parent notices. Giving them their flea preventative could be a quick fix, saving you time and money!

Fleas are a very common cause of itching in dogs, and unfortunately, you may not actually notice the fleas until there are a lot of them!

Here are some other things you can consider for a dog prone to itchy skin:

Diet

A poor-quality diet can lead to dry skin and poor coat condition, which can be itchy. You can improve your dog’s coat by feeding them a good quality, nutritionally complete diet. Diets high in omega-3 are a good option for dogs prone to skin conditions and there are many diets specifically formulated to promote healthy skin. If you aren’t sure which food is best for your dog’s unique needs, then ask your veterinary team for advice.
Some dogs with itchy skin will have food allergies. However, food allergies aren’t as common as you’d think, and restricting your dog’s diet unnecessarily can be dangerous. If your veterinarian suspects or has diagnosed your dog with skin allergies, then they will advise you on which foods to avoid. They may also recommend a prescription diet that contains hydrolyzed protein. This means the proteins have been broken down into their individual amino acids (the building blocks of protein) so that your dog can’t react to them. 

Supplements

There are many supplements available to support healthy skin and coats. Some of the ingredients specifically helpful for skin include:

• Vitamin E: a powerful antioxidant known to promote healthy skin and coats.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: such as those found in fish oil, are beneficial for the skin. 
• Biotin: supports healthy fur, skin, and nail growth. 
• Zinc: is important for hair growth.

It’s always safest to choose a supplement specifically formulated for dogs since some ingredients in human supplements are toxic to dogs. Again, quality is key. Cheaper options may not contain enough of the active ingredient and are likely to be less effective. Checking whether a supplement has earned the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) seal of approval is a good start. Your veterinarian will also be able to advise on which supplements would be best for your dog.
Remember, you should always check with your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new supplement or changing their diet. 

How can I soothe my dog’s itchy skin?

There are many doggy shampoos available that are designed to soothe itchy skin. Shampooing your dog can also help by washing away allergens stuck on the coat, such as pollen after a walk. If your dog has a medical skin condition, then your veterinarian may prescribe a specific shampoo as part of their treatment plan. Shampoos can be soothing, antibacterial, antifungal, or a combination of all three! Shampoos containing oatmeal or chamomile tend to have soothing and moisturizing properties. You could even make your own colloidal oatmeal shampoo if you’re feeling creative!

Coconut oil applied topically to the skin is good for hydration and may help if your dog is itchy due to dry skin. Studies have proven its benefits in children with dry, itchy skin due to atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema).

Shampooing your dog can help by washing away allergens stuck on the coat, such as pollen after a walk.

Apple cider vinegar has been suggested as being soothing for itchy skin and paws. However, there is no scientific evidence to back this up at the moment. Apple cider vinegar will also really sting if it comes into contact with broken skin or wounds! If you do choose to try it, then always dilute it at least 50:50 with water first and make sure you only use it on skin that isn’t damaged. 

Some people suggest aloe vera gels for sore skin in dogs. However, aloe vera is actually mildly to moderately toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting and diarrhea if licked. There are enough dog-friendly remedies to try, so it’s safest to avoid aloe vera gel.

Final Thoughts

Now you know everything you need to about home remedies for dogs with itchy skin! Remember, you should always consult your veterinarian if your dog is very itchy, or they have any new issues with their skin.