Many dog owners know little about dog allergies and itchy skin on their pups. The types of allergies that dogs can have are varied and can make both you and your pup miserable.
The majority of dog allergies will show up in the spring and summer when every flying insect imaginable is out in full force.
Flea prevention alone is not enough because it’s not only fleas that bite them. Mosquitoes, ants, gnats, and basically anything that crosses their path can bite or infest your dog. Once bitten a chemical reaction starts in their bloodstream causing itchy skin.
Once they start scratching they become obsessed with it and won’t stop until they have scratched an open sore. If it gets to this point a trip to the vet is inevitable. However, there are measures that can help your dog survive these summertime pests without going crazy.
Preventing Dog Allergies and Itchy Skin
Of course, if possible a preventative is the best choice. Stopping the infestation and itching before it starts is always easier than trying to deal with it after the fact. There are several preventatives available for dog allergies, both store-bought, and home remedies.
Flea prevention
Available through your vet or local pet store, flea and tick preventions are a must to keep fleas and ticks away from your dog.
Mosquitoes in the yard
Spray your yard and gardens to keep mosquitoes at bay. You can also use one of the many home remedies available to keep them off your dog while outside.
Put Listerine in a spray bottle and lightly mist your dog before taking him outside. Or rub Vicks Vapor Rub lightly on your palms and through your dog’s hair to keep them away.
Preventing the bites one hundred percent of the time is not going to be possible. Somewhere there is that pest that is going to get past even the best prevention. Knowing that you have done all you can to prevent these pests is the best you can do.
Dog Allergies, Itchy Skin – Home Remedies
Once the bite happens it’s time to spring into action and stop the itching before the skin is broken. Before calling the vet and spending money that might not need to be spent, try one of these owner-recommended home remedies to relieve itchy skin:
- Allergy supplements: These are vet approved for itch relief. A natural alternative to help dogs suffering from seasonal allergies. It helps support skin health and to maintain normal histamine levels.
- Gold Bond Medicated Powder: This helps to soothe and relieve skin irritations. Sprinkle it lightly through your dog’s hair and on itchy spots.
- Apple-Cider Vinegar: Mix half and half with water and spray on itchy skin.
- Antiseptic Spray: Spray on the irritated area. This helps to provide a coating that stops the itch.
Itch relief is the only way to keep your dog from scratching and breaking the skin. If necessary, hold your dog until the medication takes effect and he stops scratching. Keep your dog’s nails short and filed down to help prevent skin tears. In severe cases, your vet may have to be seen for more serious medications to help stop the itching.
Keep your Dog Allergy-Free!
Remember, prevention is a better way to stop dog allergies and itchy skin from happening in the first place. Apply some of these home remedies as soon as you suspect your dog has a bite or allergy, and see your vet if it gets serious.
For more on keeping your dog healthy, see these articles:
Treatment of Heat Stroke in Dogs – How to Protect Your Dog
