Itchy Dogs

A dog's constant itching can be a worrying thing for most pet parents. There are 4 common reasons why your dog may be itching his skin: 1. Tick, Flea and Mites: One of the most common reasons for itching in dogs. Here are some quick DIY solutions: • Take an empty spray bottle and make a spray with Apple Cider Vinegar and Water on a 50:50 ratio and add a few drops of lemongrass, lavender or rosemary essential oil. Keep this spray ready at home at all times. Spray all over your dog's body before taking him out for walks. Avoid open cuts & wounds as this may sting. This is a natural repellent. • Add 1-2 caps of Natural Neem Oil to half a cup of coconut oil and massage your dog's body with it. Leave it for 30 minutes and then give him/her a bath with a pet safe shampoo. Neem oil is very effective in killing existing ticks & flea. • Use the ACV and water spray on your dog's bedding and blankets and put them out in the sun to dry. 2. Poor diet or allergy to certain foods: • Grain and soy are common allergens among food for dogs. Try to feed a grain free diet if your dog is feeling itchy. • Keep altering your dog's protein source from time to time - one type of meat protein can cause your dog to develop allergies over time. 3. Environmental changes like pollen : • Use a natural, chemical free floor cleaner at home as commercial detergents and disinfectants can cause sever itching in dogs. • Pollen in the air, plants & grass with fertilizers or pesticides can also cause your dog to develop sensitivity and eventually cause itching. Use anti-bacterial pet wipes to clean your dog after he has been out in the lawns or walks during the pollen season. • Add Omega 3 and 6 supplements to build the skin's natural defence. 4. Bacterial or fungal infections : • While mostly this may require a veterinarian's attention, basic remedies at home include bathing your dog with apple cider vinegar and water solution (50:50 ratio) that helps ease out bacterial infections. • Always use a sensitive skin shampoo that has Oatmeal as a base to bathe your dog.