When we think of our furry companions, we usually picture them in our minds on their best behavior and appearance—fluffy, cuddly, affectionate, smart, and maybe even a bit clumsy and quirky! Unwanted behaviors can also occur, though, and despite the love we have for our furry friends and their great image in our minds, we should address these on time. This particularly applies to situations where the unwanted behaviors might stem from medical issues.
Persistent scratching and biting is a behavior we may notice in our furry friends. It can indicate a minor irritation or a more serious health issue.
As you may already know, understanding the cause is the first step towards properly managing an issue, whether it is related to our dogs’ behavior or health.
Common Causes of Scratching and Biting
Fleas and Other Parasites
Fleas are such a pest, aren’t they? They are particularly active during hot seasons, usually starting from spring until early fall, as they thrive in warm and humid environments.
A flea infection is probably the most common cause of excessive itching and biting in our furry friends. These parasites feed on your dog’s blood, causing intense discomfort.
If you have any concerns that your canine might have gotten fleas, you should look for dark, small spots in your dog's fur, which are likely to be flea droppings. Flea ‘dirt’ usually becomes brown or red when in contact with water.
Alongside fleas, other parasites like mites can also cause intense itching and scratching. Mites (mange) invade the skin and cause inflammation and discomfort. A veterinarian can conduct skin scraping or other tests to diagnose the presence of parasites.
Allergies
Sometimes it can be extremely challenging to keep our dogs well-mannered and by our side. High energy levels, lack of impulse control and proper training, insufficient physical and mental stimulation- all these factors can cause your dog to go to areas that they are not supposed to have access to.
Contact with certain foods, pollen, mold, mites, etc., can lead to allergic reactions, which in turn, will cause your canine to constantly scratch and bite the infected spots on their skin.
Identifying and eliminating any allergens from your dog’s environment, including their diet, is key to providing relief from symptoms like scratching and biting.
Skin Infections
Bacterial and fungal infections can be another cause of severe itching, leading to scratching and biting. Symptoms that accompany skin infections are hair loss in the itchy patches.
If your furry friend has a skin infection, your veterinarian will likely prescribe treatment featuring medical shampoos or oral medication.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis, which is generally inflammation of the skin, causes itchiness, resulting in excessive scratching and biting. You may notice swelling, rash, or redness on the skin.
There can be different causes of this condition— from allergies, burns, and sensitivity to certain foods, to trauma, contact with irritants, infections, and underlying health conditions affecting the entire body.
You might want to read more detailed information about dermatitis in dogs on the website of the American Kennel Club.
Pyotraumatic dermatitis or acute moist dermatitis is also known as ‘hot spots’. This term is used to describe inflamed, red skin lesions which may be filled with pus. Hot spots can appear on different parts of a dog’s body and be easy to recognize or hidden beneath matted fur. Having said that, it is essential to take proper care of your dog’s health and physical appearance, as this will help you recognize signs of health issues promptly.
Further information about hot spots can be found on the website of the VCA Animal Hospitals.
Dry Skin
Dry skin in dogs is a common health issue that can be caused by various factors, including environmental conditions, underlying health problems, or an unbalanced diet.
Exposure to harsh weather, such as wind or sun, can also contribute to developing dry skin. Additionally, certain medical conditions, like hypothyroidism, can affect the skin's health by disrupting normal hormonal balance. This leads to insufficient skin hydration and elasticity.
Dogs with dry skin may exhibit various symptoms, including flaky, rough patches, dandruff, redness, and persistent itching. If you notice your furry companion scratching, biting, or licking their skin more frequently than usual, you should check for any of those signs.
To help alleviate dryness, omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil, can come in handy! You might incorporate them into your dog’s diet by being mindful of the amount. Start by adding a small dose to your paw friend’s meals and gradually increase it, ensuring it is suitable for them based on their age, health, and living conditions.
In addition, using a moisturizing dog shampoo specifically formulated to hydrate and protect the skin can provide relief from dry skin. These shampoos often contain soothing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil, which can help restore the skin's natural moisture balance.
How to Address Your Dog’s Constant Scratching and Biting
Pay Attention to Your Dog’s Behavior
If you are a pet parent, you should be prepared for all the aspects accompanying the process— both positive and negative. You should be observant and learn to differentiate between your doggo’s standard behavior and any abnormalities in it. This applies to all situations, including when it comes to addressing scratching and biting issues.
Pay close attention to when and where your canine tends to scratch or bite the most. Additionally, take note of any recent changes in their environment, such as new plants, household items they might have been in contact with, or cleaning products, as well as any changes in their diet. This information will help you gain a good insight into the possible causes of excessive itching and scratching. Furthermore, it will be valuable to your veterinarian, should medical assistance be needed.
Veterinarian Check-ups
Whether it is an annual preventative examination or consultation due to a specific issue, you should never neglect your dog’s health.
If your dog’s itching or scratching persists or worsens over time, it is essential to consult your veterinarian. They can conduct a comprehensive physical examination to check for skin infections, parasites, or other underlying issues. Depending on the results, they might run additional tests and administer proper treatment.
Good Hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene is essential in managing and preventing skin issues in dogs.
Regular grooming, and bathing, depending on the dog’s breed and activity level, are particularly helpful in removing dirt, debris, and loose fur. This helps reduce the risk of matting and skin irritation.
Please make sure to use only shampoos specifically made for dogs, as they are formulated for their skin type and help reduce irritation and itching. Avoid over-bathing, as it can remove natural oils from your dog’s skin and cause dryness.
Also, regularly check your paw partner for signs of fleas, ticks, or other parasites, especially if they spend time outdoors.
Environmental and Dietary Management
If constant itching and scratching are caused by allergies, you may need to make dietary changes such as a hypoallergenic diet or specific supplements that promote skin health.
As mentioned above, omega-3 fatty acids can be very beneficial for your doggo’s skin, as they are known for mitigating inflammation and improving coat quality.
Moreover, managing environmental allergens can play a significant role in alleviating scratching and biting. You might consider using air purifiers to reduce airborne allergens like pollen or dust mites. Additionally, you should maintain a clean living environment by frequently vacuuming, washing bedding, and keeping floors clean.
