Why Does My Dog Keep Scratching?

Scratch, scratch, scratch. If your dog can’t stop itching, they’re uncomfortable, and so is everyone listening to the thump of a back leg at 2am. The good news: most itchy dogs can be helped once you find the cause.

The usual suspects

• Fleas: even a few bites can cause intense itching. Look for tiny black specks (flea dirt) near the tail.
• Ticks: very common in South Africa. Check ears, neck, armpits and between toes.
• Dry skin: winter air, too much bathing or harsh shampoo can dry skin out.
• Allergies: grass, pollen, dust mites and some foods can all cause itching.
• Matted fur: tangles pull on the skin and trap dirt.

What really helps

1. Do a weekly comb-through with a fine-tooth flea comb to spot fleas and ticks early.
2. Remove ticks properly with a tick remover, never by squeezing with your fingers.
3. Keep up with parasite prevention as advised by your vet, all year round.
4. Brush regularly to prevent mats and spread natural skin oils.
5. Bath with a gentle dog shampoo, and not too often. Human shampoo dries dog skin.
6. Wash bedding weekly in hot water to clear fleas and dust.

When to speak to a vet

See your vet if you notice bald patches, red or broken skin, scabs, a bad smell, ear shaking, or scratching that doesn’t settle after you’ve treated for fleas. And if your dog seems tired or off their food after a tick bite, go straight away, as tick bite fever needs urgent treatment.

The heart of it

An itchy dog can’t just tell you where it hurts. A few minutes of grooming each week lets you spot trouble early, and it doubles as quiet bonding time your dog will love.