Itchy, Scratchy Dog: 4 Common Dog Skin Conditions and Treatments

You're as prepared as you can be. Your slides are cued, your notes are ready, and it's time to join your virtual meeting and present. “Thump, thump, thump." Unfortunately, it's just as you log in that your dog starts scratching, and can't seem to stop.

And of course, it's not quiet, subtle scratching. It's thumping, jingling, desk-shaking scratching that goes on and on during the full 45-minute presentation.

Sounds like it's time to figure out why your dog is scratching so much, and what you can do about it.

Why Is My Dog Scratching, Biting, or Licking So Much?

Just like people, dogs have skin under all that fur. And, like people, many factors can cause them to feel itchy and uncomfortable, including:

• Climate: Summer heat or dry indoor air in winter can cause dry, itchy skin, while high humidity can trap sweat and dirt near your dog's skin, increasing the risk of bacterial infections.
• Infections: Infections caused by parasites, bacteria, fungus or a virus can lead to skin problems.
• Fleas and Ticks: Fleas and ticks on dogs can occur nearly anytime and anywhere, causing everything from an annoying itch to infections to more serious and costly health issues.
• Genetics: Some dogs are born with sensitive skin or a predisposition for skin conditions. In addition, some diseases such as certain cancers and the adrenal gland disorder called Cushing's, may lead to skin problems in dogs.
• Allergies: Just like humans, pets can have allergic reactions. Common culprits of dog skin allergies include pollen, dander, dust, insect bites, flea bites, mold, specific foods and even chemicals in shampoos or other products.

4 Common Types of Dog Skin Conditions and Allergies

Your dog may have an underlying condition that's making them so itchy. Here's a quick overview of some common dog skin conditions (and allergies) that may be the reason your pup is scratching.

1. Allergic dermatitis

• Symptoms: Symptoms from allergic dermatitis in dogs include mild to persistent scratching, excessive chewing, body sores, hair loss, dull coat, infections, vomiting and diarrhea caused by the allergic reaction.
• Causes: Pollen, mite dander, exposure to chemicals, mold and parasites are a few of the culprits. Food causes may include wheat, corn, soy and certain proteins like chicken and beef.
• Treatments: Removal of the allergen and possibly allergy shots, medication and collars to deter scratching.

2. Pyoderma

• Symptoms: This bacterial skin infection, informally known as hot spots, is known for red and inflamed skin, small lesions or a rash, raised or puss-filled bumps, scabs, blisters, scaling of the skin and hair loss. Commonly affected areas include the groin, mid-back, base of tail, inside the ears and in between the toes.
• Causes: Broken skin from scratching, impaired blood flow or an immune system disorder.
• Treatments: Oral antibiotics, antihistamines, steroids, medicated sprays and shampoos.

3. Hair loss

• Symptoms: Loss of hair in patches or all over the body, skin that is scaly, crusted or inflamed. Keep an eye on your pet's patterns of hair loss to see if it is excessive or ongoing.
• Causes: Usually an underlying health issue, such as mites, trauma, bacterial infections, ringworm, disruption in hair follicle growth or systemic disorders.
• Treatments: Antibiotic therapy, topical ointments or shampoos, and hormone therapy.

4. Acne

• Symptoms: Red or white spots, or blackheads, sometimes swollen or infected, and often occurring on the chin area.
• Causes: Stress, poor grooming/hygiene, food allergies, overactive glands or even hypersensitivity to plastic in food dishes.
• Treatments: Antibiotic cleansers and medication to reduce inflammation.

Treatment for Skin Conditions and Skin Allergies in Dogs

The good news is that many skin issues in dogs can be cured, while others can be vastly improved with ongoing management. The best treatment for your dog's skin conditions will depend largely on the cause, but options often include:

• Supplementing your pet's diet with anti-inflammatory ingredients like omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids.
• Changing the type of food your dog eats.
• Using pet-specific medicated shampoos for bathing your dog.
• Giving your pet over-the-counter or prescription medication, such as antihistamines and steroids (see our tips on how to give medication).
• Giving your pet either injectable or oral immunotherapy that may reduce sensitivity to allergens.

How Much Does Allergy Testing for Dogs Cost?

Of course, the best way to help your pup with their skin condition or allergy is to prevent it. Allergy testing can be a great option to help you assess if your dog has environmental or food allergies that result in scratching. On average, allergy testing costs between $200 and $300 depending on whether the vet runs tests through blood work or skin testing.¹

CareCredit Credit Card Financing for Dogs

Taking good care of your pet's well-being from nose to tail is essential. Make sure to stay up to date on their regular checkups at the vet to help keep your pet happy and healthy for a lifetime of love. You can use your CareCredit credit card for pet care throughout the year for routine veterinary services as well as emergencies and surgeries.* Apply today and use our Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian near you that accepts CareCredit.

CareCredit is there for you and your pet every step of the way; continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

Expert Reviewer

Dr. Karen Halligan, D.V.M.

Dr. Karen "Doc" Halligan earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) from the University of California, Davis. After completing her formal education, driven by her love for animals and a desire to enhance the human-animal bond, she has worked tirelessly to provide exceptional care for pets and educate pet owners on responsible pet ownership.

She is the author of the award-winning book Doc Halligan's What Every Pet Owner Should Know: Prescriptions for Happy, Healthy Cats and Dogs and has authored countless articles for various magazines and other media. She has appeared on numerous television shows, including "The Doctors" and "Animal Planet," where she has shared her knowledge and provided expert advice on various animal health topics. Her ability to communicate complex veterinary concepts in an accessible manner has made her a sought-after speaker.

She currently practices general medicine and surgery at Marina Veterinary Center in Westchester, CA.

Author Bio

Kristin Driver is a Digital Writer with Synchrony. She specializes in writing about health care, finances and pet care. Her work has been published by Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Health, Stanford Health Care, Risk & Insurance, Modern Health Care, Risk Insider, CIO Review and more.