The first step is to check that your dog is up to date with effective flea treatment. Fleas are one of the most common causes of itching, and even a single bite can cause irritation.
(Tip: Cats often over-groom rather than scratch when itchy.)
If your pet continues to scratch after flea treatment, it’s time to speak to your vet.
Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing can damage your dog’s skin. This can lead to:
- Sore, inflamed areas
- Hair loss
- Secondary bacterial infections
Early intervention helps prevent these complications from developing.
Dogs with ongoing dry or itchy skin may be reacting to:
- Environmental allergens (like pollen or dust mites)
- Their diet
These dietary hypersensitivities can also cause ear problems and issues with anal glands.
Your dog’s diet plays a key role in keeping their skin healthy and itch-free.
A good diet should include:
- High-quality protein – supports skin repair and coat health
- Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids – help reduce inflammation and dryness
- Vitamins A, B & D – essential for healthy skin function
- Zinc and copper – support skin strength and coat condition
In some cases, your vet may recommend supplements or a specialist diet.
- Hypoallergenic diets
- Hydrolysed protein diets
- Limited ingredient diets
N.B. Dogs with food allergies often have problems with their “ears and rears” (anal glands)
Click here to browse our range of tailored diets to support skin health.
- Reduce Inflammation
- Improve dry, flaky skin
- Make the coat shinier
- Help with mild allergies
- Omega fatty acids
- Zinc
- Biotin
- Vitamins
N.B. Dogs with food allergies often have problems with their “ears and rears” (anal glands)
Fleas are a major cause of itching in both dogs and cats.
Some pets develop flea allergic dermatitis, meaning they react to flea saliva. In these cases, even one flea bite can trigger severe itching.
This may lead to:
- Dogs: Hot Spots (red, moist, inflamed skin)
- Cats: Small scabs (miliary dermatitis) or hair loss
Consistent, year round flea prevention is essential in pets with flea allergic dermatitis.
You should seek veterinary advice if your pet:
- Is scratching constantly
- Has red, sore or broken skin
- Is losing hair
- Shows no improvement after flea treatment
Your vet can help identify the cause and recommend the most effective treatment or diet.
