Does your pup have an itch he just can’t scratch? Is watching him drag himself back and forth across your carpet, desperately trying to make it stop, driving you both bananas? According to Dr. Emily Rothstein of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology, the most common causes of dry, itchy skin are flea allergies, environmental allergies (like pollens and house dust) and food allergies. Certain breeds, like retrievers, setters, and terriers, are more affected, but all dogs are potentially prone. Thankfully there are natural, effective solutions that will have you both sighing with relief.
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1. Add Oils and Omega 3’s To Their Diet
Everyone is always raving about the benefits of coconut oil, now it’s our dogs’ turn to join the club. It can improve your pup’s skin and coat quality and reduces allergic reactions. Let your pup lick some straight from the spoon or mix in a small amount into their food twice a day—start with a quarter teaspoon per day for small dogs and puppies and one teaspoon for large dogs, eventually you can work up to about one teaspoon per ten pounds of body weight per day.
Dr. Rothstein also says that omega fatty acids can be helpful in combating itchy skin: Olive oil is a great way to add them to your pup’s diet (around five to six drops in your pup’s food twice a day until you notice a difference and then reduce it to a few). Other great sources are flax seeds, fish oil and sunflower oil.
2. Eliminate Grains, Corn and Wheat
Some dogs are allergic to corn, wheat and other grains, which can cause irritated skin. Dr. Rothstein says the other most common allergens are often the proteins that dogs are exposed to. Eliminating these foods can help to treat and relieve reactions that may be causing your pup to have itchy skin. Many commercial pet foods are loaded with processed and genetically modified ingredients, which can irritate your dog’s skin, as well. A natural, low-processed diet that is free of chemical preservatives and artificial fillers can help fight your pup’s itchy skin from the inside out.
Related: Dog Allergic to Humans, Finally Gets to Snuggle Up to Them
3. Try Natural Topical Treatments
Oatmeal is a reliable nourishing and moisturizing ingredient—it can also relieve irritations and balance pH levels, giving your pup immediate relief. You can use an oatmeal shampoo or make your own oatmeal rinse, by grinding up oats in a blender until it reaches a flour-like consistency. Add the oatmeal mix to your dog’s bath water and mix thoroughly until it turns milky. Soak your pup then rinse them off gently.
Another great topical solution to calm your pup’s irritated skin is to make a baking soda paste that you can apply to the affected area. Just mix together a solution of baking soda and water in equal parts, creating a thick paste. Apply it to your dog’s skin where they are irritated, leave it on for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. Dr. Rothstein also reminds us that skin can be kept healthy with regular brushing and bathing.
4. Add Supplements To Your Dog’s Diet
Bye Bye Shabby Coat nourishes your dog’s skin and coat from the inside out. Veterinarian formulated and using powerful natural ingredients, including healthy omegas, salmon oil, and vitamin E, our chews help heal dry, itchy, irritated skin, while also promoting a shinier and softer coat. All our supplements are proudly manufactured in the USA.
If you’ve tried all of the above and your pup still has uncontrollable itchy skin, you might want to consider some supplements: Digestive enzymes help in the breakdown and absorption of food in your dog’s gut—and when they’re better able to absorb the nutrients and vitamins from their food, it can help prevent allergy symptoms. Enzymes also help your dog eliminate toxins and waste from their body, resulting in an overall healthy skin and coat. You can find digestive enzymes at your local health and pet foods stores, just make sure to buy vegetarian enzymes that are formulated for animals.
Related: Why Does Your Dog Have Itchy Skin and What You Can Do About It
This article is for information use, not medical advice. Please consult your vet for your needs.
This article originally appeared on Ollie, a dog food startup providing your pup a tailored meal with human-grade ingredients.
