Just like humans, dogs can develop itchy, uncomfortable skin for a number of reasons: some of which may require a trip to the vet, while others can be treated with simple home remedies or OTC purchases.
Some common causes of itchiness in dogs include environmental or food allergies, which usually cause discomfort around a dog's paws, neck, ears, groin, and rump. Autoimmune disorders can also cause body-wide itchiness in some cases.
When Should You Call the Vet?
Mild itching every now and then usually isn't a sign of serious health conditions, but if your dog starts to develop other symptoms such as loss of appetite, lethargic, or depressed mood talk to your vet ASAP. It's important to treat the underlying cause of its severe, chronic itchiness to avoid developing more open wounds and infections in the skin. Depending on the cause, your vet will treat as appropriate.
If your dog's itchiness is occasional, mild, or limited to frequent or persistent itching or licking, difficulty getting comfortable or restlessness from itching, however, there are plenty of totally safe remedies to treat occasional, mild, or even frequent itching at home. In fact, you probably already have most of the remedies in your pantry, or you can order them online for a reasonable cost (compared to a vet bill.) Read on for seven simple remedies that can provide itch relief for dogs.
Consult your vet before starting any skincare regimen for your dog, and stop the treatment if your dog's symptoms remain the same or worsen.
7 Remedies To Provide Itch Relief For Dogs
Petaseptic Itch Relief Lotion/Spray
Colloidal Oatmeal Baths
Apple Cider Vinegar
Chamomile and Green Tea Soaks
Aloe Vera
Baking Soda
Balanced Diet
Petaseptic Itch Relief For Dogs
Petaseptic has been helping pets since 1941, and the itch relief formula can be traced back to around 1910. Petaseptic Lotion is a clear, stainless, greaseless antiseptic made from all natural ingredients for dogs, cats, and other animals. It is a unique combination of time-tested materials derived from nature. The best part is you can save time and money by purchasing it online: Petaseptic Itch Relief For Dogs.
Colloidal Oatmeal Baths
This age-old remedy isn't just an old wives' tale—a colloidal oatmeal bath can seriously soothe your dog's itchy skin by reducing inflammation and washing away allergens that get trapped in the fur. Whether you buy pre-made colloidal oatmeal (it's produced by grinding the oat into a fine powder and boiling it to draw out the colloidal) or grind plain, sugar-free oatmeal into a powder yourself, colloidal oatmeal's anti-inflammatory properties can ease redness, swelling, and itchiness, and cool your dog's hot, uncomfortable skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Did you know Apple Cider Vinegar can be used as a powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal treatment? Simply combine a mixture of 50 percent apple cider vinegar and 50 percent water in a clean spray bottle, then spray your dog's itchy spots with the solution. If your dog's paws are irritated, you can use the mixture for a nice, relaxing paw soak for up to five minutes. Apple cider vinegar is great for natural itch relief for dogs, but remember that it can attracts bugs if you are going to be outside.
Chamomile and Green Tea Soaks
Chamomile and green teas are well-known for their soothing, anti-inflammatory effects in humans—but they work just as well for dogs and other animals too. If your dog is dealing with hot, itchy patches of skin, try giving it a soothing soak in a chamomile or green tea bath.
Here's how to do it: Fill your bathtub or sink with lukewarm water and let several tea bags steep for three to five minutes. Then, remove the tea bags and let your dog soak in the mixture for at least five minutes. If you want to spot treat your dog's skin, steep a tea bag and let it cool completely before applying the tea directly to affected areas.
Aloe Vera
If you've ever had a sunburn, you know all-natural aloe vera can be a lifesaver. Not only is aloe vera a powerful healing agent, but it can also reduce redness and draw uncomfortable heat away from the skin. You can apply aloe vera directly to the affected spots to provide itch relief for your dog. Most grocery and drugstores sell 100 percent natural aloe vera, or you can harvest it from an aloe vera plant if you have one at home.
Baking Soda
Yes, the same baking soda found in your pantry, baking soda can do much more than making your baked goods rise. When combined with water and blended into a thick paste, baking soda can dry out rashes on the skin, alleviate itching, and reduce redness and inflammation. All you have to do is combine 50 percent baking soda with 50 percent water and apply the paste to your dog's itchy skin. After about 20 minutes, rinse completely. For a more moisturizing blend, add a little bit of high-quality coconut oil to the mixture. And if your dog is experiencing body-wide itchiness, you can also add some baking soda to its bath. However you choose to use it, baking soda is a great home remedy to provide itch relief for dogs.
A Balanced Diet
Feeding your dog a balanced diet with plenty of omega-3 fatty acids and healthy carbohydrates can help soothe and heal its skin from the inside out. How? Many dogs are allergic to the ingredients found in standard chicken, beef, or turkey-based dog foods, as well as wheat or gluten ingredients. Swapping in fish-based foods or foods containing sweet potatoes can alleviate the symptoms associated with doggy food allergies. Plus, fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are proven to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and promote skin health. Just remember: You should always consult your vet before changing your dog's diet or adding any new supplements.