Summary

Dog itching is usually caused by one or more of the following: environmental allergies (most common!), flea allergies, food allergies or skin infections.

You should seek veterinary care (online or in person) if:

• The itching/scratching is constant (think: more than 3–5 times per hour)
• The itching interferes with your dog’s sleep
• Your dog seems uncomfortable
• You notice redness, odor, hair loss, oozing skin, or scabs
• Itching is paired with vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or swelling

Most dogs improve quickly once the root cause is identified and a targeted treatment plan begins.

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‍Key takeaways

• Persistent itching is rarely just dry skin. Typically frequent itching signals allergies, parasites (like fleas) or infection.
• Redness, odor, scabs, or hair loss suggest inflammation or infection may already be progressing.
• If your dog is not sleeping because of itching, it’s a “see a vet now” problem.
• With Otis, you can get a same-day online allergy consult with a specialized vet who can prescribe a personalized treatment plan including prescriptions like Apoquel - without leaving home.

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What nonstop itching usually means

Itching (whether it’s scratching, licking, chewing paws, or rubbing) normally is a symptom of:

Environmental allergies

Common triggers: pollen, dust mites, grass, mold and household irritants (i.e. cleaning products).

Signs: red paws, belly/chest irritation, face rubbing, seasonal or post-walk itching.

Flea allergy dermatitis

Even one flea bite can cause intense itching.

Signs: chewing or scratching at the tail base, rump or hind legs.

Something here about being only an inside pet or “none of my other dogs/cats are itching” does not mean fleas are not a potential cause of itching. This could be added in the FAQ section instead.

Food allergies

Often linked to proteins like chicken, beef, or dairy.

Note: These are often most talked about but far less common than environmental and flea allergies.

Signs: chronic paw licking, recurring ear infections, year-round itch. Ear infections alone without itching anywhere else on the body account for approximately half of food allergies. Gastrointestinal signs (i.e. vomiting, diarrhea, constipation) can occur in up to 45% of food allergy cases. 

Skin infections (yeast or bacterial)

Often seen in conjunction with one of the above categories. Itching can lead to inflamed skin which then allows microbes to overgrow leading to infection.

Signs: redness, greasy or flaky skin, odor, hot spots, oozing, hair loss.

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What to look out for

If left untreated, itching can often snowball quickly into a painful infection within just 24–48 hours. Seek urgent vet care (online or in person) if you see:

• Raw, bleeding, oozing, or swollen skin
• Foul odor, very red or thickened areas, greasy patches
• Sudden hair loss, scabs or overnight hot spots
• Itching that disrupts sleep or daily routines
• Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or appetite loss
• Facial swelling or hives

If there is skin irritation do not wait several days as ****this typically worsens without treatment.

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What you can safely do at home

While arranging veterinary care, you can:

• Check for fleas/ticks at the tail base, neck, groin, and belly
• Apply vet-prescribed flea prevention (if overdue)
• Wipe paws and rinse belly with lukewarm water after walks

What NOT to do

Avoid:

• Human creams or hydrocortisone
• Leftover antibiotics or old pet meds
• Antihistamines without vet guidance
• Waiting days to see if symptoms improve

These can delay proper treatment or worsen irritation.

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How Otis can help itchy dogs

With Otis (otisforpets.com), you can book a same-day online allergy consult with veterinarians who specialize in itchy, allergic dogs. During your video visit, the vet will:

• Assess your dog’s symptoms and environment
• Review photos or live video of your pet’s affected skin, paws, ears and hot spots
• Build a customized treatment plan tailored to relieve symptoms fast and manage your pet’s allergies on an ongoing basis

Your plan may include:

• Prescription medication like Apoquel
• Topicals or medicated shampoos
• Infection treatment (if needed)
• Strategies to reduce flare-ups and control allergies long-term

Telemedicine gives you quick access, zero wait times, and easy follow-ups - ideal for chronic or recurring itch.