Dogs scratch when they itch, and sometimes, when they do not. There are several causes for itching, and keeping your pet safe from them will also keep your home and family safe, too. Learn how to stop your dog from scratching by learning about the cause for each itch.
One main cause of itching is fleas. Unfortunately, fleas multiply very rapidly. By the time you see your dog scratching, it may have a serious infestation. Treating the fleas both on your dog and in your home is the first crucial step to helping it find relief.
With flea eggs hatching around the clock, you must nip the infestation in the bud. You can do this by treating your dog and your home for the fleas. Have your vet look at the dog and prescribe medication. At the same time, ask about sprays for the lawn and everywhere that your pet stays. You will need to spray each area several times because the fleas continue to hatch over time. You will need to get rid of the living ones, but you must plan for the hatching eggs too.
Lots of dogs are actually allergic to fleas. Their skin can itch from just one flea. The preparations used to relieve the itching are similar to those for humans. You may be surprised when the doctor prescribes calamine lotion. But never use human medication on dogs, because the doses and composition are usually different.
Other top reasons for scratching are ringworm and mite infestations. Mites are microscopic insects that burrow under the animal skin and when left untreated, will cause the fur to fall off in patches. They itch terribly, and spread quickly. Ringworm is actually a fungal infection. It will also cause the fur to drop off. Both of these nasty problems require specialized medications and time to heal.
Dogs can suffer from food allergies much in the same way that humans do. If all other causes have been ruled out, then consider whether or not the food the dog is eating is causing its scratching. Commercial dog foods may be the source. Also spicy foods, sweet foods, red meats, or foods with preservatives, are main culprits. To determine exactly which food is difficult. You must remove only one food at a time for 2 to 4 weeks to look for improvements.
Be certain to check for spider, tick, or snake bites if your location warrants it. These are a bit difficult to find, unless your pet has scratched one area to the point of it becoming red, irritated, swollen, or filled with pus. You should see a veterinarian immediately after discovering one of these causes, and be certain to know how to administer emergency treatment on your own if necessary.
Dogs enjoy scratching their stomachs by dragging across floors. If this behavior bothers you, or is excessive, try spending extra time and attention on your dog. It can be a signal for needing attention, and you can solve this itching cause quickly by giving you dog some extra affection. Learning how to stop your dog from scratching is discovering the cause of the itching and dealing with it appropriately.
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