by Snow Vandemore

Created on: December 24, 2009   Last Updated: December 26, 2009

Dogs and itchy skin can be a real problem.  Fortunately, there are some home remedies you can try to help alleviate your dog's itchy skin symptoms.  

Before you can determine which home remedy might benefit your dog's itchy skin dilemma, it is important that you attempt to identify what is causing the condition.  Allergies, dry indoor air, parasites, medications, medical conditions and breed tendencies can all contribute to your dog's suffering.  The good new is, generally through a process of elimination, you can pinpoint what is actually causing your dog to itch and scratch.  Only then can you develop a home remedy plan to assist in improving the situation.    

Breed 

There are several dog breeds that suffer from itchy skin.  Some of these breeds include German Shepherd Dogs, Boston Terriers and Chinese Shar-peis.  A little research about your dog's breed, or breeds if he is a mix, on AKC.org(the official web site of the American Kennel Club) will tell you whether your dog's breed is more prone to experiencing skin health issues.    

Allergies

Much has been discussed recently about the relationship between the ingredients in dog food and allergies in dogs.  Specifically - beef, dairy products and wheat are said to account for 66 percent of suspected food allergy.cases.  Take a moment to read the main ingredients in your dog's food to determine which ingredients are present.  The length of time your dog has been eating a particular brand of dog food may also be a factor in his or her present condition.  The longer your dog has been eating a brand of dog food, the more likely he or she has developed an intolerance to one or more of its ingredients.    

Environment

If your dog is generally confined indoors, the humidity levels - especially in cold weather climates - in your home may be contributing to his itchy skin problem.  The use of a hygrometerwill measure the humidity level in your home and whether it is sufficient to support a healthy environment for both you and your four-legged friends.      

Parasites

The presence of fleas, ticks and/or mites may be causing your pup to itch and scratch.  Take some time to conduct a full examination of your dog by running your fingers through his fur, down to the skin and looking into his ears with a flashlight.  Black flecks on the skin or in the ears may suggest a parasite is present.    

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