Does your dog have itchy or sensitive skin? If so, you might be wondering whether a different shampoo could help. Well, the answer is… maybe.
To explore this further, we’ll look at common causes of itchiness in dogs, soothing shampoos, and when you should seek help from your vet. Read on to find out more!
Itchy skin in dogs
There are many different reasons why your dog might have itchy skin. These include –
● Parasites – fleas, mange mites and lice can all cause itchiness and other symptoms like hair loss or skin sores.
● Allergies – An overreaction of the immune system to environmental allergens like grass pollens and house dust mites can cause itchiness. Food allergies occur too, with common triggers being chicken, beef and dairy products. Contact allergies are another possible, e.g. a reaction to a carpet cleaning product or fabric softener used on their bedding.
● Bacterial infection – Bacteria can cause itchy skin, inflammation, pustules and sores, a condition known as pyoderma. Pyoderma needs medicated shampoo or antibiotic treatment.
● Fungal infection – Ringworm (dermatophytosis) can cause itchiness, hair loss and ring like lesions on your pet. Malassezia is a yeast which can also cause itchiness, though it is often secondary to other issues like skin allergies.
● Behavioural issues – Some dogs may lick or chew obsessively due to underlying issues like anxiety, boredom or pain.
● Seborrhoea – A skin disorder that causes flaky, greasy skin with secondary infections.
● Dry skin – Some dogs may have irritated skin either due to their diet, weather conditions, use of harsh grooming products or too many baths.
Choosing a shampoo for itchy dog skin
If you want to try a shampoo for your dog’s itchy skin the there are certain features to look out for –
● A dog-specific product – Always pick a dog shampoo rather than a human one. This will be more appropriate for the pH of your pet’s skin, helping to prevent further irritation.
● Natural ingredients – A shampoo containing natural ingredients like soothing oatmeal, moisturising coconut oil or tea tree oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
● Avoids harsh chemicals – A product that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals like parabens and alcohol is preferable. These chemicals could further irritate and dry your pet’s itchy skin.
● Medicated shampoos – Your pet may require a medicated shampoo for their skin issues.
Whichever shampoo you choose, make sure you use it properly. Bathing your dog too frequently can strip the coat of natural oils, which also causes problems.
Other treatments for itchy skin in dogs
If your pet has persistently itchy, or they have other skin symptoms, then your dog may need more than just a sensitive shampoo.
Treatment for itchiness in dogs includes:
Medications to reduce itchiness –There are an array of different options available, including steroids (prednisolone), oclacitinib, cyclosporin, monoclonal antibodies and antihistamines. Immunotherapy may be useful in dogs that have undergone allergy testing.
Topical treatments – Prescription shampoo, medicated wipes or topical creams may be required to clear secondary skin infections and reduce skin inflammation.
Anti-parasite treatment – products to treat and prevent flea or mange mite issues.
Antibiotics – Oral antibiotics may be required for severe skin infections.
Change of diet – This is especially important in dogs with suspected food allergies
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) supplements – EFAs can help some dogs with itchy skin. They work by improving the health of the skin barrier and coat condition.
