Is your itchy dog keeping you awake at night? The scratching, licking, and chewing can feel endless and heartbreaking.
Up to 40% of veterinary dermatology consultations involve itch. But what most pet parents think is the cause is often not quite right.
Social media loves to blame food for every itchy dog. The truth is, true food allergies are rare, affecting fewer than 10% of dogs with allergies.
The most common allergic trigger in Australia is flea allergy dermatitis. Even a single flea bite can trigger intense itching in sensitive dogs. That’s why year-round flea prevention is essential.
Many other itchy dogs react to environmental allergens such as dust mites, pollens, and grasses. These dogs don’t just react to allergens — they also tend to have a weakened skin barrier.
Your vet may also check for infections (yeast/bacteria) and parasites, because these commonly worsen itch.
Think of healthy skin like a strong brick wall. When that wall is damaged or “leaky,” water escapes and irritants get in more easily. This barrier dysfunction makes flare-ups more likely.
Even if food allergies are not the trigger, diet plays an important role in skin strength and inflammation control.
The science is strong, demonstrating that the omega-6 to omega-3 fats at a ratio between roughly 5:1 and 10:1 is often recommended to support skin health. This balance acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, reducing your pet’s reliance on medical treatments to keep them comfortable.
Omega-6 builds strong skin “bricks,” while omega-3 calms redness and irritation. EPA and DHA are key omega-3s that help switch off inflammatory signals.
High-quality protein also matters. Ingredients such as egg provide highly digestible amino acids along with nutrients like lutein and bioactive lipids that support skin health and normal barrier function.
Stronger skin means better resilience – letting fewer allergens in and therefore fewer flare-ups over time.
Topical therapy is not just an optional extra — it is a core part of dermatitis management.
When skin becomes dry, it forms microscopic fissures, which allow for water to be lost. These tiny cracks allow allergens and bacteria to penetrate more easily.
Medicated shampoos, ceramide-based lotions, and barrier-repair products containing ingredients such as phytosphingosine help restore the skin’s protective barrier.
Used consistently, they:
Barrier repair is foundational — not cosmetic.
Modern veterinary medicine offers a huge range of therapies, which can be tailored to suit the needs of our pets and their family caring for them.
Options may include:
The best option depends on age, health conditions, and infection risk, as well as what your pet is willing to tolerate – not everyone loves a bath!
There is rarely a single “cure” for itchy skin. Most allergic dermatitis is a lifelong condition that requires thoughtful management.
Some dogs need support only during high-allergy seasons. Others require year-round, multimodal care.
The aim is not perfection — it is fewer flare-ups, faster recovery, and more comfortable days.
That’s where partnership matters. Working together, we can create a personalised plan that protects your dog’s skin barrier, controls inflammation, and prevents avoidable triggers.
If your dog is still scratching, losing hair, developing hot spots, or smelling yeasty, don’t wait. Early support leads to better long-term comfort.
