My dog is always scratching but doesn’t have fleas?
If you’re not dealing with fleas, then it’s probably a skin problem or allergy. There is never any fun in seeing your dog suffer from itchiness. Not only can continuously scratching the skin cause infection and other skin related problems, it could also cause health concerns to other animals and even to humans. In this article, let us find out the root cause of the problem and the best way to treat dog allergies even from home.
Signs of Allergic Reaction in Dogs
If you’re asking the question “My dog is always scratching but doesn’t have fleas?”, then there is a great chance that your pet is undergoing an allergic reaction. Some of the common signs for allergic reaction in dogs are:
- Licking its paw excessively
- Butt scooting and moderate to heavy scratching
- Sneezing and coughing
- Tummy discomfort and vomiting
- Swollen body parts such as the face, joints and feet
While these are the common symptoms of allergies, scratching and itching can also be caused by skin infections such as scabbing, hot spots, and others which are all visible and can be treated right away through medications and skin ointments for dogs.
How to Treat Dog Allergies
Here are a few my do home remedies that you can use whenever your dog shows signs of the problem. These dog allergy treatments can be done when the dog is experiencing allergies and can even be made as a precautionary measure in order to avoid allergic reactions.
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Soothing the itchy areas
One good solution to use for scratched skin on your dogs is the combination of Epsom salt and warm water or also called the ‘ocean water’. Moderate amounts of salt with warm water can help reduce the itchiness and can rid the skin of germs and bacteria that could bring about infection.
Or you can always use medications, dog allergy treatment creams, ointments, and oils to relieve scratching and allergies of your dogs. Before doing so, it is important that you check the labels and make sure that it is safe to use for pets.
Among the common mistakes made by dog owners when treating their pet’s allergies is using Benadryl for humans.
While this medication may be effective for treating human allergies, it may cause otherwise to pets such as dogs. So before you use that Benadryl, make sure it is made for dogs, or that it is labelled as dog allergy treatment.
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Avoid too much shampoo
A smooth and fresh smelling fur out of your dog is a great thing to have. However it should not be achieved through excessive use of shampoo or soap whenever they are bathed.
Dogs have sensitive skin which can be prone to irritations caused by chemicals coming from shampoos, soaps, and even ointments.
Consider only moderate amounts of shampoo and wash the fur thoroughly with clean water. So if you ever come across the question ‘My dog is always scratching but doesn’t have fleas?’ then it’s probably because of the shampoo or soap that the dog is using.
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Controlling your dog’s diet
Although the dog’s digestive system is less sensitive to humans, it is still prone to dog food allergies.
Among the common triggers for food allergies for dogs include grains, beef, dairy, soy, fish, and many others.
While these food items are still important to their well-being, try adding only small portions of it in their diet and increase gradually until they have fully adapted to their new diet. Thus if you or someone you know says ‘My dog is always scratching but doesn’t have fleas?’ then it’s probably time that you look into your pet’s food or diet.
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A walk under the sun
Among the simplest ways to deal with itchiness along with any other skin problems is vitamin D from the sun.
There is practically a ton of benefits achieved from getting vitamin D from the sun and among them is boosting the immune system of the body including the skin.
Also, it takes away any moist from the fur that could be causing itchiness and even takes away any smell. While this could be healthy for your dog, it could also be beneficial for you.
When you find yourself asking ‘My dog is always scratching but doesn’t have fleas?’ and your dog is experiencing allergies which you don’t know what triggers the problem, it would also be best to stay away from them and isolate them from other animals. While allergies can be caused by food and things, it can also be caused by other animals as well as people.
Once the allergic reaction subsides, take your dog to the vet to verify the triggers of the allergy and to obtain prescription medications. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be ready to take action whenever you’re faced with the question ‘My dog is always scratching but doesn’t have fleas?’