Causes Of Your Dog's Persistent Itching

Have you noticed that your dog is itching a lot lately? If so, you may be concerned if his or her scratching is persistent. While itchy skin is a problem for many dogs, constant itching could be a sign of an underlying problem that goes beyond dry or irritated skin. Here are some common causes of continual itching:

Dandruff. Humans can have dandruff and so can dogs. This condition develops when a dog's skin is too dry and it becomes irritated. To remedy this problem, you can try bathing your dog less often or use an ultra-moisturizing shampoo that will nourish the skin. There are also supplements and special dog food that can make a difference. To learn how dietary modifications can alleviate dandruff, speak with your local veterinarian.

Fleas. When a dog has a flea infection, the parasites will bite and cause the dog to itch repeatedly. You can buy over the counter flea treatments to solve this issue. In serious cases of flea infection, however, you'll want to consult your vet as persistent fleas can cause the development of other parasites.

Allergies. Dogs may be prone to food allergies or even environmental allergies. In order to know what your dog is allergic to, you'll have to receive a diagnosis from your veterinarian. If your dog has food allergies, you'll have to complete a food trial to see what the dog has reactions to. In some cases, changing a dog's diet can remedy food allergies and itching.