Topical Treatment Solutions for Dog Itching

Dog itching can have many causes, both internal and external. To fully address the issue, it's important to address both etiologies. Some simple dietary changes can make a huge difference and will support the effectiveness of the topical treatments discussed in this article. There are topical treatments to use during bathing and others to apply after or in between baths. Some of the treatments can be purchased over the counter, and others require a veterinary prescription.

The Best Canine Diet For Skin Health

Since topical treatments can add up in cost and only address half the issue, you and your dog will benefit from also addressing the problem from the inside out. Many dogs get itchy skin partially due to food allergies or sensitivities, or because the digestion has become sluggish due to poor nutrition or too much of the wrong ingredients. The best food for dogs with sensitive skin is a diet that is low in its glycemic index and contains mostly whole foods that are in a form close to the way they appear in nature. Many dogs do best with protein sources such as venison or buffalo. A formula with less chemicals will also help the digestion work at its best, so that the body's detoxifying systems can function at their best.

Preparing the Irritated Area

Most itchy dogs will have specific areas that are inflamed or bothersome. You'll know the area to target because your dog will scratch and chew on that area the most. It's important to cut away any hair that may be wet from licking and nipping. Make sure the area is clean and able to air out. Now it will respond more readily to topical treatments.

Probiotic Powder

Dog itching is often a result of bad bacteria that are on the surface of the skin or just below. It can be well worth the money to go to a health food store and buy a refrigerated powder that has a probiotic content in the billions. Unlike many animal treatments, it's fine to use a probiotic powder for humans. Just put a small amount on the irritated area and the friendly bacteria will literally feed on the irritating bacteria.

Antihistamine Powders

You can get a prescription from your vet for an anti-inflammatory powder. These treatments often contain benadryl or a similar substance that has an antihistamine effect. Applying just a bit on the irritated area can provide immediate relief.

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E is one of nature's most potent and powerful skin healers. Apply it in between applications of a powder. You can also look for a canine supplement containing vitamin E and fatty acids to add to the diet.

Tea Tree

Tea tree is another natural healer that can be used outside the bath or as an ingredient in your dog's shampoo. There are sprays that not only soothe the area but may discourage the licking and biting that can irritate the area further.

 

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