How to Stop Dog Itching From the Inside Out

Skin conditions are one of the most common reasons people bring their dog to the veterinarian---itching, rashes and hair loss are extremely common. Itching is a symptom often of allergies, parasites or simply poor nutrition. While it's very important to have your dog diagnosed by a veterinarian for any skin condition, treating your dog from the inside out with good nutrition and supplements might be all it takes to stop the itching.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Change your dog's food. While many people are unwilling to commit to a home-cooked or raw diet, there are plenty of alternatives for feeding a dog good nutrition with high protein, high fat and few carbohydrates.

2. Ditch the "weight control" kibble. According to Dr. Susan Wynn, executive director of the Georgia Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, vets can tell when a dog is eating this because it has dry skin, a poor coat---and it's still fat. Feed a higher quality food and supplement with cooked vegetables for bulk if you think your dog needs it.

3. Add fish oil to your dog's food. This supplies omega 3 fatty acids, something most commercial dog food is lacking. Fish oil is a natural anti-inflammatory and benefits the skin and coat. You can also add some omega 3-rich canned salmon, mackerel or sardines to your dog's food.

4. Give your dog a probiotic per day. Usually recommended for gastrointestinal issues, they can improve a dog's overall health, including better skin and coat and fewer allergic reactions, according to researchers at Oklahoma State Center for Veterinary Sciences.

5. Exercise your dog. Excessive scratching, licking and chewing can be caused by boredom, under-stimulation and stress--all conditions easily treated with some brisk exercise or playing.

Tips & Warnings

• Dogs utilize fat differently than people. It doesn't make them fat, but is important for energy, overall health and proper absorption of nutrients.
• Fish oil is a much better source of omega 3 fatty acids than the flax seed oil often sold for the same purpose.

References

• Dog Logic: Higher Fat Levels? For Dogs It Spells Better Health
• Oklahoma State University: Probiotics
• Alt Vet Med: Weight Problems in Pets

Resources

• Dogaware: Dog Feeding Information
• Ped Education: Omega Fatty Acids

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