7 Natural Home Remedies for Itchy Dogs

Like humans, skin itching is a common problem in dogs and dog owners are constantly finding ways to make dogs more comfortable. If that’s the case for you, then this article will help you solve the problem at home naturally.

Skin itching in dogs is caused by just about anything from their environment to their food. No matter what has caused the itching, you can always help your dog feel better using natural home remedies for itchy dogs.

Dogs have approximately ten times as many mast cells in the skin as humans, and they are all over their bodies. This means that dogs experience more itching with every type of allergic response. However, the good news is, there are several readily available natural methods of relieving itchiness in dogs.

What Can I Give My Dog to Stop Itching Naturally?

1. Coconut Oil

Although there is still some controversy when it comes to heart health and coconut oil, it is said that solidified and chilled coconut oil can help soothe any discomfort caused by skin infections, allergies, bug bites, and doggy eczema.

Simply massage the coconut oil onto the dog’s skin and coat. You can also try mixing a scoop of coconut oil with your dog’s kibble. But before you do this, be sure to always consult your vet.

Moreover, while shopping for your coconut oil, it is important to find the highest quality and human-branded coconut oil known to be unrefined, virgin, or organic.

2. Aloe Vera

We all know how aloe vera can be a lifesaver when it comes to treating a wide range of skin conditions. This is also true for dogs. Aloe vera is a powerful healing agent and also helps draw excess heat from the skin as well as reduce redness.

You can always apply it directly to your dog’s skin or the affected dog spots. Some stores may sell 100% natural aloe vera, but you can also harvest it directly from the plant if you have one. However, never use an aloe vera gel that contains alcohol or other irritants, as it will only worsen the irritation symptoms of the dog.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular and important ingredient in making salad dressings, but did you know it is also an antifungal and antibacterial treatment? If your dog’s skin is irritated or the fur is constantly shedding, you can use an apple cider mixture for a relaxing soak.

To make the mixture, simply combine apple cider vinegar and water in the ratio of 1:1. You can either allow your canine friend to soak for five minutes or add the mixture in a clean spray bottle or spray the dog’s skin, particularly on the itchy spots.

4. Oatmeal Bath

The oatmeal bath is an old remedy that has been proven to seriously soothe the dog’s itchy skin. In addition, it helps wash away all allergens that get trapped in the fur, which helps reduce shedding and inflammation. You can choose to grind plain and sugar-free oatmeal into powder or buy pre-made colloidal oatmeal, which is produced by grinding oats into powder and boiling it to draw away the colloidal.

Either way, the colloidal oatmeal bath can help reduce itchiness, swelling, and redness of the skin, as well as cool the dog’s uncomfortable and hot skin. Additionally, you won’t have to worry if your dog will lick the oatmeal as it is entirely non-toxic.

5. Chamomile and Green Tea Soaks

Chamomile and green tea are popularly known for their anti-inflammatory effects and soothing effects in humans. Fortunately, they will also work for dogs. If your dog is struggling with hot and itchy patches on the skin, then giving it chamomile and green tea baths will help relieve the itchiness.

To do this:

1. Fill your sink, bathtub, or basin with lukewarm water and add several tea bags of green or chamomile tea to the water.
2. Leave it for approximately five minutes, then remove the tea bags out of the water.
3. Allow your dog to soak in the water for about 10 minutes.

If you’re hoping to spot treat your dog’s skin, then steep the tea bag in hot water, allow it to cool completely before you apply the tea directly to the areas affected.

6. Baking Soda

Baking soda can do much more than making your baked meals rise. It comes in handy to alleviate itching, reduce inflammation or redness on the skin, and dry out the rashes on the skin.

All you need to do is combine it with water to form a thick paste. To do this, combine baking soda and water in the ratio of 1:1, then go ahead and massage it on the dog’s skin. Leave it for about 20 minutes, and then rinse the baking soda off completely. If you feel that the mixture is too drying, you can consider adding a few drops of coconut oil to the mixture.  You can add baking soda to the dog’s bathing water or use the mixed water as an antifungal shampoo.

7. Yogurt

Giving your dog plain and sugar-free yogurt provide a huge range of health benefits. Some skin irritation and yeast infections can arise from the dog’s digestive system. As a result, this remedy comes in handy for dogs that have different types of allergies, skin rashes and hives.

For best results, occasionally feed your big dog with two teaspoons of yogurt and a small dog one teaspoon of yogurt once a week. This will not only help stop itchiness but will also improve the dog’s gut health. Most dogs will enjoy the taste of yogurt, so it shouldn’t be harmful to feed them, but you can also choose to mix it with food to ease digestion.

When Should You Visit the Vet?

Mild itching every now and then may not be a sign of a serious condition. However, if your dog experiences persistent or frequent itching together with other symptoms like loss of appetite, restlessness, feeling depressed or low moods, then it’s time to talk to your dog.

Treating the cause of severe or chronic itchiness is important to prevent infections and open wounds in the skin. Depending on the cause of irritation, your vet will be able to treat your dog appropriately. If the dog has occasional or mild itchiness, there are plenty of remedies you can use, some of which are listed above. However, it is always a great idea to consult your vet before starting any of the remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) On Itchy Dogs

1. Why does my dog itch but has no fleas?

Apart from fleas or parasites, there are many other causes of itchiness in dogs. Some of the other common causes will include environmental allergies like dander and pollen, food allergies, and an existing condition. If you’re unsure about the major cause of your dog’s itching, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor.

2. What parasites cause itching in dogs?

There are many parasites that could cause itching in dogs, from fleas, ticks, and worms. Intestinal worms are a common cause of itchiness, particularly tapeworms.

3. How can I get my dog to stop scratching?

Apart from the natural home remedies listed above, there are other popular solutions for itchy skin. Some of those solutions include;

• Medication
• A well-balanced diet
• Antihistamine or anti-itch creams
• Using specialized shampoos and cleansing products
• Guarding the affected area
• Worm, flea, and tick prevention
• Hypoallergenic dog food.