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Itchy, sensitive skin is one of the main reasons pet parents bring their dogs to the vet. Alongside medication, a diet formulated to support the skin barrier can do wonders for dogs with skin issues and help alleviate itching and irritation. At Pet circle we stock a wide range of dog food for itchy or dry skin suitable for a variety of breeds and dogs of all ages.
Apart from medication, nutrition is vital in managing itchy and sensitive skin in dogs. Dogs with allergic dermatitis have a defective skin barrier and it's important to feed them a diet that can help repair and strengthen this. A sensitive skin diet uses a reduced allergen formula to reduce the risk of triggering allergic reactions, plus skin support ingredients like omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to nourish the skin, and an antioxidant complex to reduce injury to the cells. With long term use, a sensitive skin diet can help to relieve itching, soothe irritation, and promote better skin and coat health.
For minor skin issues, a non-prescription diet like the Royal Canin Dermacomfort (comes in different sizes) could be a good option. However, for severe cases, a veterinary diet like the Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Skin Support may be more appropriate. The Royal Canin Sensitivity Control and the Royal Canin Hypoallergenic may be more suitable for dogs that may also exhibit digestive sensitivities.
It is important to consult your veterinarian to determine the best skin support diet for your dog, taking into consideration their medical history, symptoms, and other health conditions.
Unfortunately, there can be many reasons behind itchy skin in dogs and it can take a lot of work with your vet to investigate and rule out.
Flea allergy dermatitis is a reaction to flea saliva and is one of the leading causes behind itchy skin in dogs. As fleas spend most of their life cycle off of the host, it can be hard to even see signs of fleas on your pet. Regular parasite prevention can disrupt the life cycle and cover other parasites like ticks and lice.
Environmental or contact allergies are also possible, and often a reaction to certain plants like grass, and even pollen, insects, dust mites, and mould. The location or distribution of itchiness can be a good clue for this. Limiting access to potential allergens can help keep your dog itch-free.
Food allergies are rare but they do occur. Grains are often blamed for this but protein source is actually the more common cause of food allergies. Find out more in our guideDoes Your Pet Have a Food Allergy?
When all other causes have been ruled out, it may be a case of atopic dermatitis. Your vet may recommend testing with a vet dermatologist to identify your dog's allergies, and steroids and other medication may then be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
For more information, read our article on Why Does My Dog Have Sensitive, Itchy Skin?
Author info: Dr Antonella Virina Pet Circle Inhouse Veterinarian.
Veterinary Diets are carefully formulated to assist with the treatment or management of a particular illness or condition. By purchasing this product, you acknowledge and agree the following is true and accurate: