Dog Itching & Scratching
Chronic scratching, licking, or biting at skin — often a signal of allergies, parasites, or a skin infection.
Causes
7
Red flags
5
Prone breeds
10
Related
3
Good fit for telehealth
Most chronic itching is allergy-driven and responds well to telehealth-managed Rx (Apoquel, Cytopoint) or targeted supplements. If the skin is raw, bleeding, or has open sores, it needs in-person care.
When to call the vet now
Any of these signs means telehealth isn't enough — get in-person vet care today.
- ×open sores or bleeding skin
- ×hair loss in large patches
- ×hot spots with bad odor
- ×obvious pain when you touch the area
- ×sudden onset with swelling or hives
Common causes
- —environmental allergies (atopic dermatitis)
- —food allergies
- —flea allergy dermatitis
- —contact allergies
- —yeast infections
- —dry skin
- —mange or mites (less common)
Breeds most prone to itching & scratching
Not exhaustive — any dog can have this. These breeds are just more commonly affected.
French Bulldog
small · Top 10 AKC breed
Bulldog (English)
medium · Top 10 AKC breed
Golden Retriever
large · Top 10 AKC breed
Labrador Retriever
large · Top 10 AKC breed
Shiba Inu
small · Popular AKC breed
Akita
large · Popular AKC breed
Boxer
large · Popular AKC breed
Boston Terrier
small · Popular AKC breed
Bernedoodle
large · Designer breed
Goldendoodle
large · Designer breed
Take the 2-minute itch triage quiz
Get a personalized triage based on your dog's specific symptoms, breed, and history.
What can help
Products and services matched to this symptom.
Dutch
24/7 vet care and prescriptions delivered
- —Unlimited vet chats
- —Rx delivered to door
- —$11/month
- —Covers anxiety, allergies, derm
Vetster
Book online vet appointments with licensed professionals
- —Licensed vets online
- —24/7 appointment access
- —Video, chat, and voice
- —Prescription support where permitted
Zesty Paws Allergy & Immune
Seasonal allergy + immune support chews
- —NASC Quality Seal
- —Seasonal allergy support
- —Salmon oil for skin
- —Chewable, dogs love them
Related symptoms
Searchbreed is not a veterinary service and does not diagnose or prescribe. This is educational content to help you understand your dog's symptoms. For diagnosis and treatment, talk to a licensed vet.