MY DOG IS SCRATCHING A LOT : WHAT ARE THE CAUSES? HOW CAN I RELIEVE MY DOG'S ITCHING ?

Is your dog constantly scratching, day and night ? Does he chew on his paws or shake his head nonstop ? This behavior is never harmless. It's not just part of a grooming routine it may be a sign of deeper discomfort.

There are several possible causes for this itching : an inappropriate diet, flea bites, environmental allergies, and more. But don’t worry as the saying goes, every problem has its solution !

In this article, we’ll help you understand why your dog is constantly scratching and share the right steps to relieve their discomfort. We’ll also introduce you to natural and effective solutions that have already helped many dogs feel better.

Summary :

I. Causes of excessive itching and scratching

II. How to relieve your dog’s itching

III. Conclusion

I. Excessive scratching: what are the possible causes?

1) Parasites

Parasites are often the first cause of itching in dogs. They’re not always visible to the naked eye, but they can cause severe discomfort and even lead to complications.

Fleas
Fleas bite the skin to feed on your dog’s blood. Beyond the itching, some dogs are allergic to flea saliva, which can lead to redness, bumps, and even skin infections. Just one single bite can trigger an allergic reaction.

Ticks
Ticks latch onto the skin—especially around the ears or neck—and can transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease.

Intestinal worms : often overlooked
If your dog is scratching around the rear area, it could be a sign of a worm infestation (like tapeworm), often contracted by swallowing… a flea ! These parasites steal essential nutrients from your dog, weakening the skin and immune system.

Ear mites
Common in puppies, ear mites cause intense itching in the ears, sometimes with scabs, wounds, or black discharge. If you notice these signs, it’s best to consult a veterinarian quickly.

2) My dog scratches constantly but has no parasites: focus on food allergies

If you can’t find any parasites but your dog still scratches, their diet may be the root cause.

Food allergies can appear at any age. Many dogs develop sensitivities, often in response to certain animal proteins (beef, chicken, lamb) or processed ingredients like cereals and dairy. These are commonly found in mass-produced kibble and are sometimes poorly tolerated.

Contrary to popular belief, food allergies don’t always cause digestive issues. More often, they manifest through skin problems, such as itching, redness, chronic ear infections, or obsessive paw licking.

Common symptoms include :

• Scratching ears or belly

• Chronic ear infections

• Licking or chewing paws

• Dandruff or hair loss

• Soft stools or diarrhea

Would you like me to continue with the next section :

https://pongopetfood.com/en/blogs/new/elimination-diet-understand-manage-dog-food-allergies

3) Skin problems

A weakened skin barrier can cause persistent itching in dogs. Several dermatological conditions should be considered:

Chronic dermatitis : A chronic and hereditary condition often triggered by environmental allergens. It causes itching, redness, crusts, and thickening of the skin, especially in folds, the muzzle, paws, and belly.

Bacterial or fungal infections : These often develop secondarily, following excessive scratching or licking. They present as hot, foul-smelling areas with crusts and dandruff. Hair loss and thickened, darkened skin may also be observed.

Endocrine disorders : Conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome can affect the quality of skin and coat, leading to dry skin or dull, thinning fur.

For more detailed information, here is an article about atopic dermatitis in dogs :

https://pongopetfood.com/en/blogs/new/dog-dermatitis-how-soothe-your-dog

4) Environmental Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to their environment. This overreaction of the immune system is called Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD) and is one of the most common causes of chronic itching in our four-legged friends.

Common allergens:

• Pollens

• Dust mites

• Molds

• Household products or air fresheners

Symptoms:

• Intense scratching around the nose, paws, and ears

• Redness, crusts, wounds

• Frequent ear infections

• Compulsive licking

II. Solutions to Relieve Your Dog’s Itching

For parasites :
It is essential to regularly use parasite prevention treatments (spot-ons, tablets, collars…) and to disinfect your dog’s environment (cushions, rugs…) to avoid reinfestation.

Regarding diet :
Choose hypoallergenic kibble. On our website, you can find hypoallergenic insect-based kibble that is effective against food allergies. These are grain-free, free from irritating animal proteins, and rich in omega-3. Insect proteins are highly digestible and ideal for sensitive dogs. Many owners have noticed visible improvement in itching within just a few weeks ! See the reviews.

To reduce exposure to environmental allergens, here are some tips:

• Regularly bathe your dog with a soothing shampoo

• Frequently clean your home (floors, fabrics, beds)

• Provide a diet that supports skin health, like our Pongo kibble, rich in essential nutrients

Finally, to properly care for your dog’s skin, it is absolutely necessary to:

• Consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis

• Treat wounds, crusts, or infections with appropriate products

• Incorporate a restorative diet with hypoallergenic kibble

Conclusion: Stop Your Dog’s Itching

When your dog is scratching excessively, it is an important warning sign not to be ignored. Whether the cause is food-related, environmental, parasitic, or behavioral, there is always a tailored solution to relieve your dog’s discomfort. Check for parasites, keep your dog and their living environment clean, and favor a single-protein diet with a rare protein source such as insects. In all cases, we recommend consulting your veterinarian.

At Pongo, we can help if your dog suffers from itching caused by food allergies. A healthy, targeted diet is key to long-term well-being for your dog. Our hypoallergenic insect-based kibble has been specially designed for dogs prone to itching, skin allergies, and digestive sensitivities.

A Few Words About Our Pongo Kibble

• Insect proteins: an innovative, highly digestible animal protein source, perfect for allergic dogs.

• Free from common allergens: no beef, chicken, grains, or dairy.

• Rich in omega-3 and zinc: to soothe inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.

• Natural recipe: no artificial colors or controversial ingredients.

• Eco-friendly: low environmental impact without compromising on quality.

Give your dog the comfort they deserve: Discover Pongo kibble !