by Angie Pollock

Created on: August 14, 2009

Home remedies for minor skin rashes in dogs are a safe and reliable alternative when veterinarian care is not immediately needed. Skin rashes, allergic rashes, and/or itchy dry skin are more common in dogs than owners may realize. Before dog owners can choose the appropriate home remedy, they should find the cause and eliminate it from their dog's environment if possible.

The most common cause of skin rashes in dogs is allergies. Some allergies can be caused by environmental contaminants that a dog comes into contact with, some dogs are genetically predisposed to certain skin allergies, and others can be caused from the foods a dog consumes. External parasites such as fleas can cause allergic rashes especially if the dog is consistently scratching at the skin. Some dog breeds like the Bichon Frise are prone to skin allergies and require extra care with their diet and with flea prevention.

It is important to understand that no home remedy is going to be successful if the source of the rash is not eliminated from the dog's environment. Any chemical, household cleaner, air sanitizer and even your own hand lotion and perfume can irritate your dog's skin. You need to rule out every possibility which can take several days to weeks to uncover.

A great place to start is the time period in which your dog began to show signs of the rash. Did you change foods? Was another pet introduced into your home? Did you plant new flowers in the garden? Has your dog recently begun taking medications? Until the source in identified, owners can try these home remedy options to help ease a dog's discomfort.

From oatmeal and vinegar to tea and herbs, dog owners have many options available that may help alleviate a dog's skin rash. Medicated shampoos prescribed by a veterinarian are recommended but some owners have had success with human medicated shampoos such as T/Gel. Some of the same products that we use on our own skin are also safe for a dog but opt for all-natural ingredients or baby shampoos. Dogs that already have some type of rash may have a reaction to fragrances that are included in many human products.

Aloe vera is a natural ingredient from the aloe vera plant known for its ability to soothe the skin and aids in healing. Natural vitamin E oil and Milk of Magnesia are known to ease irritated skin. Both can be placed on a cotton ball and applied directly to the dog's skin. Lastly, owners can try an oatmeal or baking soda bath by adding either of these

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