Is your dog scratching too much?

It must be that time of year again, when dogs scratch a lot. I know it’s true with Yankee, my golden retriever. With him, it most often happens two times a year; right now as we move into fall, and again as we move into spring. He doesn’t have fleas, so I’ve always assumed it’s because of an environmental allergy.

Allergies are the most common cause of itching, and are generally flea or other pest related, but itchy skin can also be brought on by other issues such as food allergies and internal diseases. If you have ruled out food allergies, know your dog is eating a high quality diet, and know your dog’s itching is not due to any serious condition, perhaps it is time to try to help your dog relieve his itching using a holistic approach.

Here are just a few suggestions:

• Consider supplementing your dog’s diet with oils rich in essential acids, such as fish oil. It will work from the inside to enhance your dog’s immunity, helping to keep his skin and coat healthy and shiny.

• Don’t shampoo your dog too often. Over-shampooing rids your dog of the oils needed to maintain healthy skin. You should not use shampoos that contain flea-deterring products such as citrus oils and citronella, as they can irritate the skin. Read the ingredient list to make sure there are no harmful chemicals in the shampoo.

• Make a calendula rinse to apply to affected areas. Calendula flower is available at many health food stores and spas, or can easily be grown at home. Boil 1 quart of fresh water in a glass or stainless steel container, add ½ cup fresh dried calendula flowers, remove from the heat and cover. Steep until cooled. Strain and apply liberally to skin irritations. This makes an effective soothing and healing wash for various forms of skin problems.

• Add old-fashioned breakfast oatmeal to the bath water when you bathe your dog. It will help to fight the allergic reasons for your dog’s itchy skin.

• Mix apple cider vinegar with water and apply to the affected area. This will help sooth the itch.

• Use essential oils (with caution). Oils such as German and Roman chamomile, lavender, manuka, myrrh, and tea tree have been shown to be effective against skin irritations. Mix one or two drops in 5mls of carrier oil such as sunflower or grapeseed oil. Let your dog smell the oil first, and if he likes it, apply a small amount to the affected area. If he doesn’t like it, don’t use it on him! You’ll be able to tell by his reaction. And remember to keep essential oils away from cats!

These are just a few ideas to help soothe your dog’s itchy skin. As always, if you suspect anything may be wrong, consult with your veterinarian.

Sherri Cappabianca, an expert in the field of canine health and fitness, is the author of two books on canine health, and co-owner of Rocky’s Retreat, an intimate and personal boarding, daycare, hydrotherapy and fitness center, and Barking Dog Fitness, a Gym for Dogs, both located in Orlando. For more information, visit rockysretreat.com or barkingdogfitness.com.