Why Is My Dog Scratching So Much?
Constant scratching, licking or chewing usually points to fleas, allergies (environmental or food) or a skin infection. Itch that disturbs sleep or causes sores deserves a vet visit.
Common causes
- Fleas — even one bite can trigger allergic dogs
- Environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites, moulds) — often seasonal
- Food allergy — year-round itch, ears and paws
- Bacterial or yeast skin infections
- Mange mites
- Dry skin, especially in Canadian winters
What you can check at home
- Part the fur at the base of the tail for fleas or black 'flea dirt'
- Look for red skin, scabs, hair loss, odour
- Check ears for redness, smell or discharge
- Note whether it's seasonal or year-round
See a vet today if
- Open, oozing or bleeding sores (hot spots)
- Swollen face or hives — possible allergic reaction
- Your dog can't stop scratching or isn't sleeping
Treatment overview
Vets start with year-round parasite control, treat any infection, and may use anti-itch medication. Suspected food allergy is diagnosed with a strict 8-week elimination diet — blood tests for food allergy aren't reliable.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're worried about your pet, call your vet or an emergency clinic.