Is Your Dog Starting to Get Itchy?

As winter comes to an end and we begin to enjoy the first dry, sunny days, you may notice your dog starting to scratch or chew more than usual. I’ve recently seen this with Cammie, who has begun chewing her feet again after a relatively settled winter.

At first, I wondered whether the addition of venison chunks to her diet might be the cause. While that is still a possibility, I’m not entirely convinced. Instead, I’m taking a broader look at the different factors that can contribute to itching, particularly as we move into spring.

This is the time of year when more and more dogs come into the shop with itchy paws or ears. When I first got Cammie, she showed similar symptoms until I removed chicken from her diet. Even when a dog is eating a high-quality fresh diet and has a well-supported gut microbiome, other factors can still influence allergies — particularly the skin microbiome and environmental exposures.

Here are some of the areas I am currently reviewing, and which may also be worth considering if your dog is becoming itchy.

Flea and Worming Treatments

Cammie is not routinely treated for fleas or worms unless there is a clear need. As she currently shows no signs of infestation, there is little benefit in treating her unnecessarily.

Instead, I use worm counts once or twice a year, or whenever I have concerns. Her most recent test came back clear, giving me confidence that parasites are not contributing to her symptoms.

Drinking Water Quality

Tap water contains various treatment chemicals, and some dogs appear to be more sensitive to these than others. For this reason, Cammie drinks filtered water.

In some dogs, switching to filtered water can produce noticeable improvements quite quickly. Tear staining is often one of the first signs owners see improve.

Chemicals in the Home

Household chemicals can have a surprisingly large impact on dogs that are prone to itching or allergies. Products such as laundry detergents, fabric softeners, cleaning sprays, and air fresheners can all contribute to skin irritation.

Recently I gave the house a thorough clean and used up some older products that were still in the cupboard. I also refreshed a few air fresheners that we hadn’t used for some time and washed the sofa throws in my usual non-biological detergent.

Even I noticed the strong smell afterwards, and it made me wonder whether this change may be contributing to Cammie’s recent itchiness.

What I’m Doing Now

To help reduce any potential irritants, I’m taking a few simple steps:

• Rewashing the sofa throws using Ingenious Probiotics Laundry Cleaner

• Spraying Cammie’s beds and the sofa with Lucaa+ Allergen Spray when cleaning

• Wiping her ears with Lucaa+ Ear Cleaner

• Brushing her feet with All Natural Pet Ear Powder containing green clay

The Lucaa+ range is designed to help restore beneficial bacteria that can be disrupted by everyday household detergents. I have even found the Allergen Spray helpful for my own eczema.

Using green clay powder on Cammie’s feet is something she really enjoys. I apply it gently with a soft brush, which helps remove surface irritants and supports healthy skin.

Getting Ahead of Spring Allergies

Living with a dog that is prone to allergies can feel like a lot of work, but small preventative steps can make a big difference. By addressing potential triggers early, it is often possible to reduce flare-ups before the peak grass allergy season arrives.

If your dog is starting to scratch more than usual as spring approaches, it may be worth looking beyond food alone and considering the wider environmental factors that could be contributing.

The above is not conclusive and still experimental for Cammie, I will keep you updated on how we go.

All the Ingenious Probiotic Products are available in the shop.

Disclaimer:
Although I continually study Dog Nutrition, I am not a qualified Nutritionist. The advice that I give is based on my own personal experience and what I have learnt. However, if in doubt, please contact your vet or a qualified Dog Nutritionist.