If your dog is itching, he could be suffering from allergies or food sensitivities. Your veterinarian may recommend an elimination diet which removes potential allergens for several weeks until symptoms subside.
He may prescribe topical treatments for external parasites like fleas or scabies as well as internal ones like tapeworm. He may also advise adopting a diet which is hypoallergenic and rich in omega fatty acids.
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AvoDerm Natural Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo provides an effective solution for itchy skin issues with their high quality ingredients and combination of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that support healthy skin and coat. Furthermore, this recipe features avocado as a rich source of essential fatty acids to promote optimal coat health.
It is free from gluten, corn, wheat, soy and other common allergens for optimal digestive health and contains high levels of Omega fatty acids to promote skin health.
Wilson offers an assortment of recipes tailored specifically for weight control, joint health and small breeds – many featuring fish protein as the main component. If you suspect your pet suffers from allergies, Wilson suggests conducting a feeding trial under the supervision of your veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist; this will allow them to identify any nutritional deficiencies or excesses which could be contributing to its itchy symptoms.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil, made from mature coconuts, has become an indispensable component in food and beauty products. Hailed as a superfood due to its abundance of saturated fats like medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), it provides energy quickly for immune support as well as cognitive development.
Saponified coconut oil’s anti-inflammatory and soothing properties are effective at soothing itchy, irritated skin. Furthermore, its use promotes healthier coats by reducing tangles and matting.
Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your dog’s coat and massage it in, being careful to avoid open wounds or bleeding areas. Starting out with 1/4 teaspoon for smaller breeds may suffice while larger breeds should start off with up to 1 tablespoon a day if possible. When purchasing organic virgin coconut oil free from chemicals and pesticides for best results. Its reduced processing preserves more of its vital nutrients.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, famous for its soothing effects on sunburns, is also an effective moisturizer and anti-inflammatory. Packed full of calcium, potassium, iron, vitamin A and C as well as amino acids – the building blocks of protein – it offers numerous health benefits.
Application of aloe vera gel directly onto irritated areas helps relieve dry skin and relieve itching, particularly for conditions such as Atopic Dermatitis – one of the primary causes of itchy skin in dogs.
Although you could rub directly a cut leaf of aloe onto your dog’s skin, Ochoa advises purchasing pet-safe products with aloe as part of them – these come in lotion, spray and shampoo form.
Aloe can help reduce yeast overgrowth in dogs, a condition which often results in itchy paws. By including aloe in their diet as part of an internal dose it will help prevent any flareups of this inflammatory disorder in future flareups. Just ensure any amount is diluted sufficiently so it does not become bitter and toxic to her system.
Colloidal Oatmeal
Many pet owners swear by a traditional oatmeal bath for their dogs suffering from skin conditions or itchy spots, including coconut oil for moisture and anti-inflammatory purposes as well as essential oils of niaouli (an antiseptic agent) and lavender (which contains natural sedative qualities). Achieve better skin results is often achieved this way!
Colloidal oatmeal is an effective natural skin protectant and soothing aid, helping relieve itching caused by flea bites or atopic dermatitis. Plus, its powerful combination of avenanthramides, phenolic compounds and vitamin E acts as natural antioxidants against free radical damage!
To use oatmeal to bathe your dog, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground oats into a glass of water and stir. If the oats easily disintegrate into the liquid and turn milky-brown in color, bathing can commence immediately! After bathing is complete, be sure to gently towel dry your furry friend so as to not disturb their protective layer of oats.
