280 Sheppard Ave E. Unit 102, Toronto, ON M2N 3B1 | 647-260-8387 | yonge.sheppard.vets@gmail.com
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Understanding and Managing Itchy Dogs
A Guide for Pet Owners
Is your dog constantly scratching, biting, or licking themselves? Itchy skin can be more than just a minor annoyance for your furry friend—it could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs attention. In this guide, we’ll explore the various treatment options available for itchy dogs, ranging from mild cases to more severe conditions. Whether you’re a new pet owner or have years of experience, this information can help you identify the right course of action to keep your dog comfortable and healthy.
Topics Covered
In this guide, we’ll explore the various treatment options available for itchy dogs, based on different levels of itchiness. Whether you’re dealing with a mild itch or a more severe condition, this post will help you identify the appropriate steps to take to keep your dog comfortable and healthy.
Level 1: Mild Itch with No Evidence of Infection
For dogs experiencing mild itching without any signs of infection, simple interventions can often provide relief. These steps focus on managing potential allergens and maintaining good skin health.
1. Parasite Control
Ensure your dog has at least three months of good parasite control with Isoxazoline products like Simparica, NexGard, or Bravecto.
2. Calming ShampooBathe your dog with a calming shampoo, such as Douxo Calm, and follow up with a conditioner like Humilac or an aloe and oatmeal leave-in conditioner.
3. Limit Allergen Exposure
Wipe your dog’s paws and coat with a damp cloth after outdoor activities, and consider using a t-shirt or coat to limit skin contact with allergens.
4. Special DietConsider a limited-ingredient diet like Hill’s DermComplete, which contains essential oils and ingredients to support skin and coat health.
Level 2: Moderate Itch with Mild or Focal Infection
If your dog’s itching has progressed to a moderate level or if there are signs of mild infection, it’s important to work with your veterinarian and take more targeted action. This level introduces specific treatments to address both the itch and any underlying infections.
1. Skin Cytology and Topical Treatments
Perform a skin cytology to determine the presence of infection. For yeast infections, use a miconazole-containing shampoo daily to three times weekly for 2-4 weeks. For bacterial infections, use a chlorhexidine-containing shampoo with the same frequency.
To Perform a Good Bath
Apply a generous lather to the affected area / whole body. Allow the Lather sit for 5 minutes. Rinse and dry completely. The efficacy of the shampoo is dependant on the amount of contact time it has with the skin.
2. Control Inflammation
Apply topical treatments like Theraderm or Isathal to help control inflammation and itching.
3. Parasite ControlWe want to further support good skin health with good parasite control lasting at least 3 months.
4. CytopointCytopoint is an injectable medication that helps control itching in dogs with atopic dermatitis for 4-6 weeks by neutralizing itch proteins with minimal side effects. It is very well tolerated with very minimal side effects. Some dogs may develop tolerance to this medication over time.
5. ApoquelApoquel is an oral medication that is given once daily to stop itching by blocking a common itch receptor. It’s generally safe but should not be used in dogs younger than one year or those with serious infections.
6. Hypoallergenic Food Trial
Conducting a hypoallergenic food trial with products like Hill’s Z/d or Royal Canin HP (Hydrolyzed Protein) can be challenging but is crucial for identifying food triggers and managing your dog’s allergies.
7. Bloodwork
This is done to evaluate your dog for underlying hormonal imbalances, such as Cushing’s disease or hypothyroidism, which could contribute to recurrent infections.
Level 3: Moderate to Severe Itch and Inflammation with Diffuse Infection
When a dog’s itching becomes severe and widespread, often accompanied by diffuse infections, comprehensive treatment is necessary. This level of care involves that of level 2, and more intensive therapies, including systemic medications and possible referral to a dermatology specialist.
1. Steroids (short and sweet only!)
Steroids are an invaluable tool in the treatment of allergies. They help control inflammation which is the cornerstone of allergies. That being said, they come with a long list of side effects and should only be used for short periods of time (1-2 months) at a time.
Side effects: Drinking more and peeing more, ravenous appetite. Fresh water should be available at all times and extra bathroom breaks scheduled. Medication can be hard on liver and kidney and so bloodwork before starting this medication might be recommended. Finally patients may unmask diabetes or heart failure in patients that are at risk.
2. Systemic Antimicrobials based on Cytology +/-CultureIn severe infections, oral or injectable antibiotics or antifungals may be necessary.
In light of increasing antimicrobial resistance in both humans and animals, it’s crucial to use systemic antimicrobials only when needed. Medication selection should be based on evidence from cytology and culture. By employing these medications sparingly and only when absolutely necessary we can safeguard their effectively for both humans and animals.
3. Atopica / CyclosporineLike steroids this is an immunosuppressive drug used in the control of allergies in dogs and cats. Unlike steroids this medication can be used long term / maintenance therapy.
Side effects: The most common side effect of this medication is an upset tummy. This will often resolve with persistence, and tricks like putting the capsule into the freezer the night before can be very helpful. This medication should also be used with caution in patients with severe underlying infections and pets with kidney and liver disease. Pre-medication lab work and monitoring of liver and kidney values are recommended while using this medication.
4. Dermatology Referral and Allergy TestingFor our most severely affected pets we may recommend referral to a dermatologist who can:
a) Assess what we’ve done so far and make expert adjustments to our diagnostic and treatment plans
b) They can help develop an allergy vaccine (Allergen Immunotherapy) for your pet. Veterinary dermatologists can perform specific tests to help narrow down what your pet is most allergic to. They can use this information to develop a tailored allergy vaccine. By exposing your pet to small frequent amounts of what they are allergic to, they can slowly develop a tolerance to the allergens over time.
Managing an itchy dog requires a thorough understanding of the possible causes and appropriate treatments. Whether your dog’s itching is mild or severe, early intervention can make a significant difference in their comfort and quality of life. If you notice your dog scratching more than usual or showing any signs of discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact us at call/text us at 647-260-8387 or email us yonge.sheppard.vets@gmail.com to set up an appointment. We’re here to help you find the right solution for your pet’s needs and ensure they stay healthy and happy 