One or two itchy paws may be perfectly normal, but if your dog’s scratching at his skin regularly or has other symptoms like dandruff, hair loss or an unpleasant odor it’s time for a vet visit.
There are a few home remedies you can try to help hydrate the dry skin of your pup.
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Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal baths are one of the best at-home solutions for dry itchy skin. Not only will oatmeal baths soothe itching but it will also create a protective barrier and decrease inflammation by maintaining adequate levels of hydration in the skin and protecting from further dehydration loss.
Grind one cup of old-fashioned, unsweetened oatmeal into a fine powder in your food processor or blender (instant oats can also work, just make sure they don’t contain added ingredients). Stir one tablespoon of this oat powder into some warm water. If it dissolves readily then colloidal oatmeal has been created!
Saponins found in oatmeal serve as natural cleaners that remove dirt and debris from your dog’s coat and skin without disturbing its natural pH balance. This helps reduce itchiness, flaking, itching, while simultaneously adding softness and shine to its coat.
Apple Cider Vinegar Spray
Apple cider vinegar has long been considered an indispensable natural health, beauty and cleaning product, due to its high acetic acid content which has been touted to aid with various ailments including ear infections and skin conditions.
To use it on your pup, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle, and apply liberally on areas of skin irritation and coat damage. After this treatment is applied, rinse and dry your dog afterwards.
Some pet parents also use diluted apple cider vinegar (ACV) as a final rinse after bathing their dogs or as leave-in spray for itchy dogs before heading outside in order to repel fleas and ticks.
Search for organic, raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar that still contains its “mother,” made up of bacteria and yeast used to ferment juice into vinegar. You can find such products at grocery stores or natural health stores; just be wary if using on open wounds or if your dog has allergies to acidic substances. Be sure to dilute any plans to apply it directly onto their faces!
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a wonderful natural remedy for itchy and dry skin in dogs. Packed with essential fatty acids, this fatty acid-rich oil serves as a fantastic moisturizer, strengthening immunity while decreasing inflammation. Furthermore, its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties make it an effective treatment option to alleviate discomfort caused by seasonal allergies as well as healing wounds or soothing itchy ears.
Orally giving vitamin B-12 may be safe, but always consult your vet first before administering. Too much can lead to greasy stools or diarrhea and damage the gut lining, potentially contributing to leaky gut syndrome.
When purchasing coconut oil, opt for unrefined and organic versions as these will have less processing and retain more of their beneficial properties. They’re also better for your dog’s digestive system and enhance absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that acts as a moisturizer for skin and coat, can boost immune health, promote muscle wellness, prevent cell damage due to oxidation and can protect eyes and liver health. You can find Vitamin E naturally occurring in foods like nuts, seeds and vegetables; or supplement or fortified food can add it as part of your pet’s daily regimen.
Applying Vitamin E oil directly onto a dog’s dry skin can provide temporary relief, help prevent future itching episodes, and heal any itchy spots that form. Apply the oil gently through massage onto the coat or skin – but make sure it’s not too hot – then use for itchy nose or paws – just don’t allow your pup to lick off any leftover product!
If your dog has an unusually itchy coat, consult with a veterinarian immediately as this could indicate medical condition that could be the source of his or her discomfort. However, natural home remedies may provide relief.
