It’s yours the dog scratches constantly driving him, and you, crazy? If your dog licks himself, he scratches and bites himself continuously, Dry Skin may be the reason. But what causes dry, flaky skin on dogs? There can be a number of factors, including improper diet, allergies, and more. It may take some detective work to figure out the root cause of your dog’s illness. skin itchbut once you find it, you will also find the solution.

Start by watching your dog’s diet

If you’re feeding your dog a generic or supermarket brand dog food, he may not be getting enough of the nutrients and essential fatty acids to help keep his coat shiny and healthy. Many store brands do not contain the optimal balance of protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids that help keep your dog’s skin soft, moist and healthy and his coat shiny.

Experiment with one of the many premium or ultra-premium brand name dog food brands available at pet supply stores. Premium dog foods often contain supplements such as flaxseed, salmon oil, or other fish oils, which contain essential fatty acids. These additional nutrients will benefit your dog’s skin and coat and soothe dry, itchy skin. The best dog foods are also made from whole products, like chicken, turkey, and lamb, and don’t contain by-products or fillers like cheaper foods. Some dogs are allergic to corn, soy, wheat, and eggs. If you suspect food allergies, look for a dog food that does not contain these ingredients.

Essential Fatty Acid Supplements

To give your dog a boost of essential fatty acids, try giving him a supplement rich in vitamins and fatty acids like Linatone or Lipaderm. You can even put a capsule or liquid of regular flax seed oil, salmon oil, or other fish oil in your food. Many people find that this simple addition to their dog’s diet helps reduce shedding, improves a dull coat, and soothes rough, flaky skin. It has certainly helped my dog’s itchy skin.

Common Canine Allergies

In addition to food allergies, dust mites, fleas, and flea bites are common reasons for constant scratching. Typical signs of allergies include scratching, paw licking, face rubbing, or watery eyes. If your dog is allergic to dust mites, vets suggest placing a plastic cover over your dog’s bed, which will prevent mites from entering the bed. Wash your dog’s bed cover frequently in very hot water. Do not let your dog climb on upholstered furniture and avoid playing with stuffed animals. Vacuum frequently to keep dust spots away.

If your dog is scratching miserably, check him for fleas. Some dogs are allergic to fleas and flea bites, which causes extremely inflamed and itchy skin. Use a flea control product on him. There are several topical flea control medications that are given once a month and they work very well. Avoid flea shampoos, which can be very drying and can exacerbate dry skin and make itching worse.

Avoiding allergens is the first line of defense. But if your dog needs relief now that he’s scratching, try bathing him with a mild, soothing shampoo like oatmeal shampoo. Hydrocortisone spray or shampoo can also help relieve itching. If your pet doesn’t get better soon, check with your vet to see if your dog may have another underlying condition.