Is Your Dog Constantly Itchy? Causes and Dietary Solutions
Endless scratching. Paw licking. Rubbing against the furniture. If your dog seems perpetually itchy, it’s not just uncomfortable for them, it’s a sign that something might be amiss.
Persistent itching can stem from a variety of causes, including allergies, environmental factors, parasites, or even nutritional gaps. The good news? Diet often plays a key role in soothing the skin and reducing irritation. Let’s explore the common culprits and how the right nutrition can help your dog feel comfortable again.
What’s Causing the Itch?
Food sensitivities can result in chronic itchiness. Animal proteins like beef, chicken, and dairy are common allergens for dogs, often triggering inflammation and skin irritation over time.
Environmental allergens such as pollen, mould, dust mites, or even household cleaning products can also cause skin flare-ups. Sensitive dogs might start itching after something as simple as a walk in the park.
Fleas and parasites are another frequent culprit. For dogs with flea allergy dermatitis, even a single bite can lead to intense itching.
Dry skin or nutrient imbalances may also be to blame. Diets lacking in omega fatty acids or high-quality protein can leave the skin prone to dryness, irritation, and inflammation.
How the Right Diet Can Help
Eliminate common allergens. Omni recipes are free from the most frequent animal-based triggers. Instead, our meals are powered by allergy-friendly novel proteins that are far less likely to cause flare-ups. Research shows that up to 40% of dogs with clinical symptoms improved after a dietary elimination trial.
Strengthen the skin barrier. Our meals are packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with DHA from microalgae, to calm irritation and keep the skin resilient.
Support gut health. A balanced gut microbiome plays a vital role in skin health by regulating the immune system and reducing overactive responses.. Omni’s fibre-rich recipes are designed to nourish this gut–skin connection.
Spotting Food-Related Itchiness
Food allergies in dogs often present as:
-
Red or inflamed skin
-
Constant paw chewing or licking
-
Chronic ear infections
-
Thinning coat or hair loss
-
Digestive upset alongside itching
If you notice these symptoms, it may be time to try an elimination diet or switch to a hypoallergenic option. Always consult your vet for personalised advice.
A Complete Solution for Sensitive Dogs
Relieving an itchy dog often requires more than just a single food change. That’s why Omni takes a 360° approach to skin and gut health. Alongside our nutritionally complete meals, we offer soothing supplements, functional treats that won’t trigger flare-ups, and access to expert veterinary advice. Together, these tools give your dog the best chance to feel comfortable and itch-free.
Don’t Let the Itch Take Over
Chronic scratching can impact your dog’s sleep, mood, and overall quality of life. But with the right nutrition and consistent care, you can help them find relief and enjoy healthier, happier skin.
Discover Omni’s allergy-friendly meals and see how a science-led, novel protein diet can make all the difference.
Sources
-
Drechsler Y, Dong C, Clark DE, Kaur G. (2024). Canine Atopic Dermatitis: Prevalence, Impact, and Management Strategies. Vet Med (Auckl). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10874193/
-
Mueller RS, Olivry T, Prélaud P. (2016). Common food allergen sources in dogs and cats. BMC Vet Res. https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-016-0633-8
-
Olivry T, Mueller RS. (2017). Prevalence of cutaneous food reactions in dogs and cats. BMC Vet Res. https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12917-017-0973-z
-
Picco F, et al. (2008). Canine atopic dermatitis and food-induced allergic dermatitis in Switzerland. Vet Dermatol. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18477331/
-
Favrot C, Fischer N, Olivry T, Zwickl L, Audergon S, Rostaher A. (2020). Atopic dermatitis in West Highland White terriers. Vet Dermatol. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31646697/
85 Great Portland Street, 1st Floor, London, W1W 7LT United Kingdom