It’s normal for a dog owner to feel concerned when their furry buddy exhibits strange behavior. Many pet owners worry about their dog’s constant skin biting and scratching. This behavior can cause frustration, skin irritations, infections, and mental discomfort in your dog.
But what may be the cause of this behavior? In this article, we’ll look at the possible causes of canine self-scratching and biting and give you helpful advice and treatments to help your dog feel more comfortable and relieved.
10 Common Causes of Your Dog’s Constantly Scratching And Biting Himself
Before we get into the remedies, it’s essential to understand the fundamental causes of your dog’s behavior. Dogs may self-scratch and bite for a variety of reasons, including;
1. Allergies
Dogs can suffer from allergies to various environmental factors, such as pollen, dust mites, and mold, or to certain foods. Allergic reactions often manifest as itching, redness, and skin inflammation. Common areas affected include the paws, ears, and belly. Therefore, identifying and eliminating the allergen is crucial.
To do this, you may change your dog’s diet, improve air quality, or use medications to manage symptoms.
2. Flea Infestations
Fleas are among dogs’ most common external parasites, and they can cause substantial discomfort and irritation. Bites can lead to excessive scratching, biting, and even hair loss.
In addition to fleas and ticks, other parasites like mites and lice can cause itching and discomfort in dogs. These parasites can burrow into the skin or attach to the hair, causing irritation and triggering scratching and biting behaviors.
3. Skin Infections
Bacterial or fungal skin infections in dogs can lead to severe itching, discomfort, and other symptoms. These infections often occur when a cut in the skin provides an entry point for pathogens.
Common causes include scratches, bites, allergies, or underlying health conditions compromising skin integrity. The affected area may show redness, swelling, warmth, and sometimes pus or other discharge. Additionally, dogs may develop crusts or scabs on the skin, and the infected areas can emit an unpleasant odor.
4. Anxiety and Stress
Just like humans who suffer stress and anxiety, dogs can also experience the same. These feelings can result in certain situations, such as self-soothing behaviors such as scratching and biting.
Some common reasons that can cause your dog to stress are changes in the environment, separation anxiety, and lack of mental stimulation. However, behavioral changes, such as excessive grooming or chewing, are often signs of anxiety are some more reasons.
In that case, you need to provide your dog with a stable environment, regular exercise, and mental stimulation to help them alleviate their stress-related itching.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies in dogs can significantly impact their skin and coat health, often resulting in a range of issues from dry, flaky skin to excessive shedding and dull coats.
Essential nutrients such as fatty acids (like omega-3 and omega-6), vitamins (such as A, E, and B-complex), and minerals (including zinc and selenium) play crucial roles in maintaining skin barrier function, moisture balance, and overall skin integrity.
6. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, can affect your dog’s skin and coat health, leading to itching and hair loss. These conditions disrupt the normal balance of hormones, resulting in dry, thin skin prone to infections.
In this case, you must seek help from a veterinarian. They will evaluate and run some blood tests to diagnose hormonal imbalances.
What are the Symptoms of Dogs Self-Scratching and Biting?
If your dog is continuously scratching and biting themselves, there are numerous indicators to look for:
- Excessive Scratching
- Biting the Skin
- Hair Loss
- Redness and Irritation
- Pawing or Licking
- Aggravation
- Self-injury
- Gnawing
- Anxiety
How to Treat Your Dog’s Constant Scratching And Biting Himself
Now that we’ve discussed the potential causes and symptoms of dogs’ self-scratching and biting, let’s look at some successful solutions;
- Consult with Your Veterinarian: The first step in dealing with your dog’s self-scratching and biting behavior is contacting your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will assist in determining the best course of action for treating any underlying medical conditions.
- Medications: Depending on the underlying reason for the behavior, your veterinarian may recommend drugs such as antihistamines for allergies or antibiotics for infections.
- Topical Treatments: Topical remedies such as shampoos, ointments, and lotions can help calm sensitive skin and reduce itching.
- Environmental Changes: Modifying your dog’s environment can help reduce stress and anxiety. This might involve creating a more pleasant living environment, lowering noise levels, or improving exercise possibilities.
- Nutritional Supplements: Supplementing your dog’s food with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, or minerals helps address nutritional deficits that cause skin problems.
- Massage Therapy: Massage treatment can help dogs cope with stress and anxiety by increasing relaxation and boosting circulation.
- Behavioral Training: Training can help your dog overcome anxiety or stress by teaching him new coping methods. You can provide them with mental stimulation and regular exercise.
- Flea Prevention: Preventing flea infestations is critical for reducing canine self-scratching and biting caused by flea bites.
- Grooming: Regular grooming can help remove allergens and irritants from your dog’s fur and skin. You have to use gentle shampoos suitable for dogs.
- Dietary Changes: Sometimes, a change in diet can help alleviate itching. Your vet may suggest hypoallergenic food, which excludes common allergens like wheat, soy, and certain proteins.
What Can I Put On My Dog To Relieve Itching Home Remedies
To relieve your dog’s itching using home remedies, you can try the following methods:
1. Oatmeal Bath: Grind plain oatmeal into a powder and add it to warm bathwater. Let your dog soak in it for 10-15 minutes. Oatmeal can help soothe and moisturize the skin.
2. Coconut Oil: Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the affected areas. Its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties can help reduce itching.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray: Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray it on the itchy areas (avoid open wounds). The vinegar helps to balance the skin’s pH and has antimicrobial properties.
4. Aloe Vera Gel: Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the itchy spots. Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Chamomile and Green Tea Soaks: Brew a strong chamomile or green tea, let it cool, and use it as a rinse or soak for your dog’s itchy areas. These teas have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Epsom Salt Bath: Dissolve Epsom salts in warm water and let your dog soak in it for about 10 minutes. Epsom salts can help reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
7. Yogurt: Adding a small amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt to your dog’s diet can help improve their gut health, which can, in turn, improve skin health and reduce itching.
8. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supplementing your dog’s diet with omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil) can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
Always ensure your dog doesn’t have any allergies to these remedies before using them. If the itching persists, consult your veterinarian for further advice.
My Dog Is Itching and Losing Hair, But No Fleas – What to Do?
If your dog is itching and losing hair but has no fleas, there could be several underlying causes, such as allergies, skin infections, or hormonal imbalances. Start by giving your dog an oatmeal bath to soothe the skin and applying coconut oil for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Consider adding omega-3 fatty acids to their diet to improve skin health. If symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment, as they may require medications or specialized care.
Can I Give My Dog Benadryl for Itching
Yes, you can give your dog Benadryl (diphenhydramine) for itching, but it’s important to follow proper guidelines and consult your veterinarian first. The typical dosage is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of body weight, given 2-3 times a day. Ensure the Benadryl you use does not contain any other active ingredients, such as decongestants, which can be harmful to dogs. Always check with your vet to confirm the appropriate dosage and ensure it’s safe for your dog’s specific health condition.
How Often Can I Give My Dog Benadryl for Itching
Benadryl can be given to dogs for itching typically every 8-12 hours, which equates to 2-3 times per day. The usual dosage is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of body weight. However, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian before starting this treatment to confirm the appropriate dosage and frequency based on your dog’s specific health needs and condition. Always ensure that the Benadryl you use does not contain any other active ingredients.
Wrapping Up
Dog self-scratching and biting is a frustrating problem that demands care from you and your doctor. Understanding the main causes of this behavior and addressing them with medical treatment, environmental changes, nutritional supplements, massage therapy, behavioral training, and flea prevention can help alleviate your dog’s discomfort and reduce their self-soothing behaviors.
Always speak with your veterinarian frequently to check progress and adjust as required.
