Be Alert: Common Itching Causes in Dogs Often Overlooke

It's clear that a dog's relentless scratching is a sign of something amiss, even if no visible skin abnormalities are present. There are numerous potential causes for a dog's itchy skin, and it's crucial not to overlook them. Here are some common reasons and explanations to help you understand what might be at play:

1. Parasite Infestations: Fleas, ticks, and mites are common external parasites that can cause a dog immense discomfort through their biting and laying eggs. These pests can trigger intense itching, and their waste or the inflammation from their bites can also lead to allergic reactions, worsening the itching. Inspect your dog's skin and fur, particularly around the ears, belly, and paw pads, for signs of parasites or their droppings, such as the tiny black specks of flea feces.

2. Skin Diseases: Dogs may suffer from dermatitis, eczema, fungal infections (like ringworm), or bacterial infections, all of which can cause itching along with symptoms like redness, hair loss, scabs, and pustules. Sometimes, skin issues can be subtle, necessitating a veterinary diagnosis.

3. Allergic Reactions: Dogs can be allergic to certain foods, environmental allergens (like pollen or dust mites), grooming products, or herbs, leading to itchy skin. Allergic dermatitis often presents with persistent itching, rashes, and hives.

4. Ear Issues: Infections inside the ears, such as ear mites, bacterial, or fungal otitis, or allergies, can cause dogs to shake their heads and scratch at their ears in an attempt to relieve the itching. Look for signs of redness, increased discharge, or an unpleasant odor in your dog's ears.

5. Dry Skin: A lack of adequate skin oils, frequent bathing, or the use of harsh soaps can lead to dry, flaky skin and itching. Dry air during winter or skin issues in older dogs can also contribute to this problem.

6. Endocrine Disorders: Conditions like hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) or Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism) can cause symptoms like dry skin, hair loss, and itching due to hormonal imbalances.

7. Psychological Factors: Anxiety, boredom, or obsessivecompulsive disorder can lead dogs to excessively scratch themselves, often accompanied by other behavioral abnormalities, such as stereotypical behaviors or restlessness.

If your dog continues to scratch excessively, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly to pinpoint the cause and receive appropriate treatment. In the meantime, consider these proactive steps: regularly deworm your pet, maintain a clean living environment, choose grooming products suited to your dog's skin type, supplement with vitamins like Golden葆 (Comprehensive Vitamin B Tablets), and maintain a balanced diet. These measures can help prevent and alleviate itching. If your dog has sensitive skin, also try to minimize exposure to allergens to reduce the risk of allergies.