Excessive itching and licking in dogs: What causes it and how to help
Stop the madness! Does the sound of your dog constantly licking their paws and other areas of their body drive you crazy? If so, you are not alone! Excessive licking and itching is a sign of food allergies. This means something in your dog’s kibble is causing their skin to become irritated and most likely their digestive system is negatively affected as well.
Reasons why dogs compulsively lick and itch
While food allergies are one of the main culprits for excessive licking and itching, the following reasons also need to be taken into consideration.
- Food allergies
- Anxiety
- Boredom
- Psychological upset
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Dry skin
- Hormonal imbalances
- Parasites
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mites
Symptoms of food allergies in dogs
For now, let’s focus on the most common cause which is food allergies. The following symptoms are signs your dog is experiencing an allergic reaction to food.
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Dry itchy skin
- Bald patches
- Hot spots
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Click here to get a more detailed look at the causes behind excessive itching and licking in dogs.
How to help your dog recover from food allergies
If you are not sure your dog is experiencing food allergies it’s wise to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. However, if you feel confident food allergies are causing your dog’s digestive issues and excessive licking or itching, it’s best to change their diet as quickly as possible.
Generally, when you change dog food from one kind to another it’s a gradual process but when an allergic reaction is involved you need to remove the allergen quickly and replace the food with a well-balanced diet.
Also, adding an all-natural supplement to your dog’s diet aids in their digestion and maintains good health long term. Bernie’s Perfect Poop is an all-natural supplement that includes pumpkin, flaxseed, miscanthus grass, fiber, prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes which are all essential ingredients needed to support gut health.
This tasty cheddar cheese or chicken flavor supplement is easy to give to your dog and helps improve their overall gut health.
