Dog scratching - Why your dog might be itching himself to distraction

All dogs enjoy a good scratch now and then, and seeing your dog scratching, licking or grooming himself is a behaviour you will probably notice occurring a couple of times a day. This is perfectly normal, and occasional scratching is rarely problematic or indicative of a more serious condition.

However, if your dog is scratching himself to distraction, cannot leave his coat alone or appears uncomfortable or in distress, this signals an underlying issue causing pain, irritation, or intense itchiness that requires veterinary attention.

Read on to learn how to tell if your dog is scratching excessively and explore the 10 most common reasons why your dog might be itching himself to distraction.

When does scratching become a problem?

Persistent or constant scratching, especially focused on one area or across the entire body, suggests something is wrong. Signs such as inflamed, red, or hot skin, sore patches, or thinning and hair loss due to scratching should not be ignored.

Over 500 conditions can cause excessive scratching in dogs, but ten are much more common. Identifying these can help you understand why your dog might be distressed.

Puppies and fleas: the number one culprit

The most frequent cause of excessive scratching in dogs is the common flea. A heavy flea infestation can severely affect your dog’s comfort and wellbeing quickly. Prolonged exposure can cause hypersensitivity, meaning each flea bite itches more intensely. Regular use of veterinary-recommended flea treatments is essential. Talk to your vet if infestations are stubborn or recurrent.

Mites and other parasites

Microscopic parasites like mange mites and ear mites burrow under the skin, causing intense irritation and itchiness. Mange is highly contagious to other animals and even humans, so prompt veterinary treatment is vital. Your vet can prescribe effective medications to eliminate these parasites safely.

Dirty or matted coat

A dirty, tangled, or flaky coat can itself cause itching and discomfort. It also creates an ideal environment for parasites to thrive. Regular grooming and bathing—especially important for longhaired and older dogs—help keep the skin healthy and can reduce irritation.

Food allergies causing itching

Some dogs develop allergies to ingredients in their diets, leading to itchy, sensitive skin along with possible digestive symptoms. Detecting food allergies requires careful dietary trials, often under veterinary supervision. Switching to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient food may help alleviate symptoms.

External allergens

Environmental factors such as pollen, certain grasses, dust mites, or chemical irritants found in household products like washing powders can trigger allergic reactions. Identifying external allergens can be challenging; your vet may recommend allergen testing to narrow down possible triggers.

Fungal infections

Fungal infections like ringworm can be easy to miss but cause expanding areas of itching and irritation. These infections may also affect claws and nails. Fortunately, they often respond well to topical antifungal treatments prescribed by your vet.

Internal health problems

Various internal diseases—including some cancers, liver disorders, or immune system malfunctions—may cause skin irritation or itching as a symptom. If your dog is scratching intensively and showing other concerning signs, seek veterinary advice promptly for a thorough examination and testing.

Lice infestation

Lice are less common in UK dogs but remain a possible cause of itching. They are highly contagious between dogs and sometimes humans. If you suspect lice, your vet can provide medicated shampoos and treatments to eradicate them safely and quickly.

Skin infections

Any break in the skin, such as a cut or graze, can become infected with bacteria, leading to redness, swelling, and irritation. If your dog persistently scratches or licks a wound beyond normal healing time, veterinary treatment may be necessary to clear the infection and promote recovery.

Dermatitis: general skin inflammation

Dermatitis is a broad term covering skin flare-ups caused by allergies, irritants, or overproduction of skin oils. Types include seborrhoeic dermatitis, which can lead to inflamed, flaky skin and secondary infections. Treatment often includes medicated shampoos and topical therapies tailored to your dog's specific condition by a vet.

Responsible care and next steps

If your dog is scratching excessively, early veterinary consultation is crucial to identify and treat the underlying cause effectively. Preventive measures like regular parasite control, grooming, and a balanced diet support skin health.

Remember, persistent itching compromises your dog's comfort and quality of life, so addressing it promptly with professional help is an act of responsible and loving pet ownership.