Dry Flaky Itchy Skin

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What Causes Dry Flaky Itchy Skin 
Answer: So you want to understand why your dog is manifesting dry, itchy, flaky skin. Well, first off, because there are so many different things that can cause this I can not go into detail on each possibility. So below is a list of some of the most common reason’s dogs get dry flaky itchy skin. Depending on what is causing your pets dry flaky itchy skin, will determine what the treatment will be. So just go to your vet and have them run some blood work as well as a skin scrape. Just those 2 tests alone can really help narrow the field (by either telling you what IS causing the dry, flaky, itchy skin OR it will tell you some of the main things that are NOT causing it that might have been a real concern.) If it’s looking like an allergy issue, I would strongly recommend seeing an allergy specialist as they do have specialized blood work testing that can help pin-point exactly what your pet is allergic to so you can avoid those things. they also can give you some daily meds that can make a significant difference in quality of life for your pet.

Parasites: Parasites such as: fleas, ticks, lice, scabies (sarcoptic mange), cheyletiella mites (often called “walking dandruff”), and even ear mites that have spread. Unlike allergies, parasites are easy to diagnose by having your vet do a “skin scrape.” Treatments are usually Ivermectin or an anti-parasitic medication / shampoo.

Allergies: Allergies can really cause skin issues with dry flaky itchy skin. Your pet could be allergic to pretty much anything within your environment (inside or outside) such as your: grasses, ferns, flowers, weed killer, fertilizers, (inside or outside plants) household cleaners & chemicals, laundry detergents & fabric softeners, shampoo’s, perfumes & colognes, air fresheners, fabrics & carpeting, upholstery & carpet fresheners, something in the food or treats your giving them.  They could basically be allergic to anything. Just like humans can.

Fungal Infections: Fungal infections like yeast infections, ringworm etc…..can cause dry itchy scaly skin in dogs. If your pet does have a fungal infection, it should show up on the skin scrape you do.

Health Issues: Health issues like auto-immune disorders, internal intestinal parasites, thyroid disorders are just a few that can cause dry itchy scaly skin. If the underlying issues is a health problem, the bloodwork should show some insight on helping to determine which one.

Diet: Poor nutrition is a huge contributor.  Make sure you research how to pick out a high quality dog food and don’t invest in lower quality food just to save some money.  In the long run – you could cause health issues by feeding your pet a low quality food which can lead to higher vet bills due to health problems it can cause. If your pet is looking like they might have a food allergy, you can always have the allergy specialist do some tests to help determine what to stay away from when choosing a diet that is right for your pets needs.

Living Environments: Dogs that are not drinking enough fresh water and are left outside in the heat / cold elements for too long during the day / night or both can get dry, flaky, itchy skin. Dogs that spend alot of time  in kennel runs or are in cages that are not kept clean  or homes where blankets, bedding, furniture & so forth are not cleaned regularly are also subject to skin issues.

Shampoo: If your dog is bathing or swimming too frequently, that can cause dry flaky skin. Also the type of shampoo you use is a real big factor. NEVER use human shampoo. It is NOT formulated with the same ph balance as dog shampoo and will ruin your dogs coat really fast. People that bathe their dog in human shampoo & conditioners will make their dog’s hair dry and brittle,  it will lose it’s luster, softness, tangle / mat alot easier and their skin may become flaky as well.

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Disclaimer: We Are NOT Licensed Vets.  DO NOT try to diagnose or treat animals based off this or any other information you find on the internet.  This page is just BASIC INFORMATION  to help bring awareness to the different health issues that are common in animals.  If your pet is having any kind of medical issue, please seek PROPER professional treatment from a licensed vet who is trained and set up to handle such matters.

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