Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin [Why Skin Gets Itchy & How To Help]

It’s hard to ignore an itch. The urge to scratch is almost impossible to ignore, especially for dogs since it is a common issue. Dog shampoo for itchy skin will have your canine feeling fresh, clean, and fully appreciative of its healthier coat!

With so many choices and ingredients, how do you know which dog shampoo is the best? Of course, it is best to use a product that will benefit your dog’s skin and fur the most. But first, it is essential to understand what causes itchy skin and how to address it properly!

What Causes Itchy Skin on a Dog?

Different things can cause a dog’s itchy skin. It is easy to notice when your dog is scratching itself, but it will take a bit of knowledge and an in-depth inspection of their coat to determine the root of the problem.

There is not anything wrong with your dog having a tiny itch now and then. It is part of how dogs self-groom themselves. Dog breeds are different sizes with various-sized furs and coats, but sensitive skin can affect any dog. Once we know why our furry friend is scratching itself, we can address the problem quickly before it worsens. Here are the most common causes for itchy skin on dogs:

Allergies

People are not the only ones that have to deal with allergies. Dogs can get seasonal allergies too. A dog’s allergies can be triggered by:

• Food
• Dust
• Pollen
• Mold

Itchy skin is a common symptom, along with sneezing, stuffy or runny noses, and watery or red eyes. Dog allergies are seasonal, so it is not unusual to see symptoms arise during the beginning of spring. Besides shampoo for dogs, one of the best ways to avoid triggering your dog’s allergies is by ensuring your home is clean of dust and well-ventilated.

Insufficient Diet

A dog on a bad diet will begin to experience unwanted discomforts like losing or gaining weight, joint issues, and poor skin health. Dogs also need enough water to stay hydrated. A dog with a deficiency in its diet and hydration might start to experience itchy skin as a side effect.

A dog’s diet should include all-natural ingredients containing essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. This type of rich diet will not only benefit your dog’s skin and fur but also promote your dog’s overall health.

Dry Air

A lack of moisture in the air may also contribute to itchiness on a dog’s skin. It is more common for dogs to experience dry air during the summer. During colder weather, some dog owners might make the mistake of placing their dogs near a heater. Unfortunately, the dry air from the heater might also make their skin itchy. Instead of a heater, provide your dog with a warm bed, blanket, or heated dog vest.

Stress

One of the most common ways a dog becomes stressed is through separation anxiety. Dogs can develop unwanted behavior due to a lack of attention and stimulation from their owners. There are many symptoms a dog can display (such as excessive barking and destroying furniture), and constantly scratching itself from itchy skin is a common sign of stress.

People tend to get busy, but one of the best ways to keep your dog happy and stress-free is by taking it on walks or setting aside dedicated playtime around the house. A few walks a day can go a long way!

Fleas

These tiny parasites feed off your dog’s skin, leaving behind tiny red bumps. A flea bite can lead to dry, itchy skin and make your dog wanting to scratch itself nonstop. What makes fleas even more annoying is that they are difficult to spot unless you are actively brushing your dog’s coat. However, you can use a special comb for fleas to find and rid them of your dog’s sensitive skin.

There is also itch relief shampoo created especially for parasites like fleas. If a flea infestation becomes worse, consult an animal health expert for further consultation.

Ticks

Aside from leaving your dog with severely itchy skin, ticks may also carry infectious diseases that can put your dog’s health in jeopardy. Ticks are parasitic creatures that use their tiny mouths to latch onto a dog’s skin and feed off it. Ticks require a steady hand and some tweezers to remove them off the skin. Unfortunately, using your fingers can hurt your dog and spread the infection.

Mites

Mites are other pesky parasites that like to cause itchiness and irritation to your dog’s ears. A canine scratching its head might seem normal at first, but it actually could indicate that mites have taken residence in its ears.

Instead of feeding off your dog’s skin, mites eat the ear wax and oil inside the canal. It’s as uncomfortable as it sounds, and causes dogs to scratch at their ears for relief. Mites can also cause a skin disease known as mange. It is best to consult with a vet or seek dog shampoo meant to soothe mange.

Bacterial Infections

Dogs are susceptible to bacterial infections, which can cause itchy skin. In addition, dogs love spending time outdoors, where they may be exposed to fungal and bacterial infections such as ringworm, yeast infection, and impetigo. These skin infections should be addressed as soon as they are discovered. To treat the issues might require a diagnosis from a veterinarian. The vet could prescribe antibiotics or specialized dog shampoo for sensitive skin.

Dog Breed Genetics

Skin conditions like itchy skin are sometimes more common in some dog breeds than others. For example, short-haired dogs are more likely to have dry and itchy skin than long-haired dogs. Hairless dogs are known for having sensitive skin and require special care to ensure they do not develop skin conditions. Before adopting a dog breed, make sure to research possible skin health conditions so that you are prepared for their coat’s needs.

Is It Normal for Dogs to Be Itchy?

Yes, dogs can have a normal itch they easily dismiss with a simple scratch. However, what should be concerning is how often the dog continues to scratch. Aside from scratching, dogs can also lick, bite, chew, or rub the itchy area of their skin. These actions should raise flags that something is going on with your dog’s skin.

It is normal for your dog to lick its paws for a few minutes or scratch itself behind the ear, but excessively doing it should be regarded as normal. If ignored, it may worsen, so it is best to observe any unusual behavior from your dog.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Itching Too Much

Setting aside time to spend with your dog is important for things like walks and separation anxiety, but it can also assist the animal’s health. Try to get into a regular grooming routine with your pet so that you can closely inspect their fur and skin.

Generally, dogs are not subtle when it comes to dealing with itchy skin. Even if you don’t spot any bumps, rashes, or hair loss during grooming, you may notice other behavior. Keep an observant eye on any of the following signs.

• Excessive Scratching: What are the first things dogs and people do when trying to get rid of a pesky itch? Scratch and scratch until it goes away. Too much scratching may irritate the skin, causing it to turn red or even bleed.
• Increased Licking: If scratching hurts your dog’s sensitive skin, then it might resort to repeatedly licking the affected area. Dogs spend a couple of minutes each day licking their coats as a way to groom themselves. If you notice your dog licking the same spot repeatedly without stop, it may be due to itchy skin.
• Chewing and Biting: Another way dogs relieve themselves of itchiness is by chewing or biting the affected skin. As strange as it may appear, dogs will gnaw at itchy skin until it goes away temporarily. It is also unsanitary for dogs to chew the area if a fungal or bacterial skin infection causes itchiness.
• Rubbing: You’ve probably seen a dog squirm across the ground rubbing its bottom. It is seen as cute behavior, but in reality, it could indicate a health concern in your dog. It may help relieve an itch, but dog owners should address why their dog is scooting across the floor with a veterinarian.

What’s the Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin?

Whether you find it at your local pet store or online, dog shampoo is an essential part of your dog’s grooming. Of course, it is best to seek a shampoo with all-natural anti-itch ingredients. With so many dog shampoos to choose from, it can be a hassle finding the right one, and luckily, we were able to find three of the best.

Related Article: Natural Dog Shampoo: What You Should Be Using & Bath Tips!

HolistaPet CBD Shampoo for Dogs

HolistaPet’s CBD shampoo for dogs is the best of the best when it comes to skincare for your pup. For the last few years, CBD-infused animal products have increased in popularity, thanks to the beneficial effects of CBD on dogs.

Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, works hand-in-hand with a dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to promote overall wellness in dogs. Other than shampoo you can provide CBD to your dog in many ways. The ECS is present in all mammals, and it regulates essential body functions like breathing, heart rate, and digestion. CBD interacts with receptors in dogs’ bodies, and that interaction supports the ECS. A healthy ECS is crucial for comfortable skin.

Supporting the ECS is just one of the ways CBD dog shampoo can help your pooch’s skin. It also helps ease nervousness, which some dogs can experience during bath time or when experiencing discomfort. The shampoo also includes ingredients that work wonders for skin moisture and wellness. These include:

• Alpha Olefin Sulfonate
• Polyglucose, Rice Quat
• PEG-7-Glyceryl Cocoate

HolistaPet’s dog shampoo is also made with broad-spectrum CBD extract, meaning your dog will receive the full synergistic benefits of CBD oil. Besides itchiness, this shampoo may also assist with dandruff and other types of skin irritations. In addition, this CBD shampoo for dogs comes scented with Mandarin Berry, which will leave your dog smelling amazing. If your dog And best of all, HolistaPet’s CBD shampoo for dogs is made cruelty-free!

Related Article: CBD Oil Dosage For Dogs & Cats [Easily Explained]

Vet’s Best Dog Shampoos

One of the easily recognized dog shampoos in the market, Vet’s Best Dog Shampoo, offers different shampoos to address different dog skin problems. One of the products they carry is Vet’s Best Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo. It contains natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and vitamin E.

This company has anti-itch shampoos for dogs. Vet’s Best dog grooming products include medicated oatmeal dog shampoo, Vet’s Best Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo, and Flea Itch Relief Shampoo for dogs.

Paws and Pals Dog Shampoo

Another option for addressing your dog’s dry, flaky, itchy, and irritated skin is with Paws and Pals Natural Oatmeal Dog Shampoo. This natural dog shampoo is nontoxic and tear-free, so you don’t have to worry if your dog gets shampoo in its eyes.

How Often Should You Bathe a Dog with Itchy Skin?

A dog’s bathing needs depends on its breed, size, and coat length. It also depends if the dog has sensitive skin. It is best to bathe your dog once a month or every four weeks. If you bathe your dog too much, it might develop dry skin.

Research your dog’s breed grooming requirements to best be able to meet its needs. Stick with anti-itch shampoos that use natural ingredients, essential oils and are cruelty-free. Speak with your dog’s medical professional for further advice on bathing needs.

Should I Take My Dog to the Vet for Itchy Skin?

You should take your dog to the vet for itchy skin if affected skin becomes more irritated, starts to bleed, or looks infected. The veterinarian will diagnose the skin condition and might prescribe medicated shampoo for dogs. The sooner you consult with a veterinarian, the faster you will be able to relieve your dog from its annoying itchy skin.

Final Thoughts – Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin

Dogs are active animals who like to jump, run, and play with their families. They also like cuddling up with their owners and getting their bellies rubbed. Unfortunately, a stubborn itch does not go away after the initial scratch.

Thanks to this guide, you should be able to identify a dog’s itchy skin and address it properly. Besides CBD dog shampoo, feel free to check more amazing CBD pet products that we offer.

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