Causes and Solutions for Dog Irritation and Hair Loss

There are numerous causes that can lead to irritation and hair loss in dogs. These causes can sometimes be localized or generalized. Some of these causes are trivial and others require our attention or a veterinary visit. In this article, we will discuss the most common causes and solutions.

Is It Normal for My Dog to Scratch a Lot?

We should not worry if our dog scratches a little. Dogs, like us, scratch themselves every day to soothe any slight itchiness on their skin. If the dog does not have visible wounds or sores, or other worrying symptoms, there is no need to be alarmed.

However, the following symptoms are not normal and should be taken seriously:

• Our dog scratches obsessively.
• We see sores, skin rash, redness or wounds.
• We notice a bad smell on their skin.
• If your dog didn’t scratch itself much before and now suddenly it does it nonstop (that is, the normal behavior has changed).

Depending on the symptoms, there are different probable causes.

Parasites: A Common Cause of Scratching

The appearance of external parasites, especially in the case of an infestation, can cause serious health problems in dogs, in addition to hair loss. These parasites can act as vectors of other diseases. We are talking about fleas, ticks, mites, mosquitoes, and lice.

The uncontrolled presence of external parasites causes discomfort and irritation of the dog's skin, leading to constant scratching. The dog may even bite itself to relieve itching, which can easily lead to wounds, scabs, and infections.

What to Do If Your Dog Has Parasites?

The first step will be to thoroughly check the dog's coat, paying special attention to the neck area, ears, legs, armpits, and groin area. If you observe the presence of parasites, it's important to take action.