It is very normal for your dog to scratch daily. They may have a quick itch behind their ear or scratch their side when you stroke them. This is nothing to worry about and can sometimes mean your dog is happy.
Reasons why your dog is scratching a lot:
Excessive itching or scratching, however, can be a sign that something is wrong. There are many possible reasons for your dog’s excessive scratching. These include:
Fleas or worms
Irritated or flaky skin
Infections
Dirty or matted fur/hair
Allergies to food or environmental triggers, including mold and pollen
An underlying skin condition
They are too hot
They are nervous or uncomfortable
How can you treat them effectively?
There are many at-home treatments you can use if your dog is afflicted by any of these issues. The best treatments to try at home are:
Coconut oil (is a fantastic healer that can also be used to moisturise matting in fur/hair)
Flea or worming treatment (which can be prescribed by your vet monthly)
Trim fur/hair
Bath with pet-safe shampoos
Assess any potential food allergies
Cooling area with fan and water provided and accessible
Contact Your Vet
If you are concerned about your dog’s scratching and skin condition, please contact your vet for a check-up and assessment.