1. Dry skin
Environmental conditions (such as low humidity) and nutritional deficiencies can lead to dry, flaky skin.
What helps:
Include omega-3 fats from marine sources:
Cooked or tinned salmon or sardines (in springwater): 20–30 g daily for a 10 kg dog
Algae oil or fish oil supplements: 500 mg of combined EPA + DHA daily
Add a drizzle (1 tsp) of extra virgin olive oil to meals for extra skin support.
2. Allergies
Dogs can be sensitive to different allergens, from food ingredients to pollens, dust mites and mould. Allergies often show up as excessive scratching, licking, chewing or skin lesions.
What helps:
Trial novel proteins such as kangaroo, duck or venison.
Offer small amounts of anti-inflammatory foods like:
Cooked pumpkin (20–30 g daily) – supports the gut
Blueberries (2–3 daily) – rich in antioxidants
Wipe your dog’s paws and belly after walks to remove environmental allergens.
3. Parasites
Fleas, ticks, mites and intestinal parasites can all make your dog itch and scratch – sometimes intensely.
What helps:
Maintain a regular anti-parasite treatment schedule (speak to your vet about the best option).
Add natural parasite-repelling foods such as:
Finely chopped parsley (¼ tsp daily)
Brewer’s yeast (¼ tsp daily) – rich in B vitamins for skin health
4. Hormonal imbalances
Imbalances in hormones like thyroid hormones or cortisol can cause changes in the skin’s natural barrier, leading to infections and itching.
What helps:
Work with your vet for testing.
Add iodine-rich seaweed (kelp or Ascophyllum nodosum): 0.5 g powder daily to support thyroid health (only if cleared by your vet).
5. Genetic disorders
Selective inbreeding can lead to genetic conditions that affect the skin and nerves. For example, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to syringomyelia, a painful genetic condition that can cause scratching around the head and neck.
What helps:
Seek vet testing for genetic conditions.
Support the nervous system with B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids as above.
6. Anal gland problems
Full or infected anal glands can cause your dog to scoot, lick or bite at the base of the tail.
What helps:
Anal glands may need to be expressed by your vet.
Add fibre to meals to help glands empty naturally:
Cooked pumpkin (20–30 g daily)
1 tsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds, soaked in water before feeding
What You Can Do at Home
Bathe your dog with a gentle, soothing shampoo such as oatmeal shampoo.
Try new foods gradually to identify allergies or intolerances.
Use anti-parasite treatments and deworm your dog regularly.
Wipe your dog’s paws and belly after walks to remove allergens.
Limit airborne allergens at home by vacuuming with a HEPA filter and wiping down hard surfaces.
Support gut and skin health from the inside out with a probiotic and anti-inflammatory blend such as Itch-Eze.
Final Thoughts
Occasional scratching is normal, but constant itching is a sign that something isn’t right. Identifying the cause early – and adjusting your dog’s nutrition and environment – can make all the difference to their comfort and long-term health.
If you’re unsure why your dog is itchy or their symptoms are worsening, book a vet check-up – it’s always better to get on top of skin issues early.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before starting new treatments, changing diets or using supplements – particularly if your dog has an existing health condition or is on medication.
Pawsome Naturals products are designed to support wellbeing and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
References
- Marsella, R. & Olivry, T. (2017). Environmental and food allergens in canine atopic dermatitis. Veterinary Dermatology, 28(2), 118–123.
- Bensignor, E. et al. (2016). Canine pruritus: causes and management. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 57(9), 493–506.
- Campbell, K. L. (2004). Oatmeal shampoos for pruritus. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 34(1), 91–96.
- Hobi, S. & Favrot, C. (2012). The role of parasites in pruritus in dogs. Veterinary Dermatology, 23(4), 293–301.
- Rusbridge, C. (2005). Syringomyelia in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 19(5), 665–674.