Quick answer: For an itchy dog, start with gentle habits: sensible bathing with a mild dog shampoo, thorough rinsing, clean bedding and a note of when the scratching happens. Soothing skin care like an oatmeal cream or a calming spray can keep your dog comfortable, but ongoing itching needs a vet visit to find the cause.
Why dogs scratch
Occasional scratching is normal. Dogs scratch when they have dry skin, dust or grass on the coat, a bug bite or a sweaty summer day. Itching that is frequent, intense or keeps coming back can have many different causes, and only your vet can work out which one applies to your dog.
Keeping a simple diary helps. Note when your dog scratches, which body parts are involved and what changed recently, such as a new food, a new bed or a trip to the beach. Your vet will find it very useful.
Sensible bathing for itchy skin
Bathing too often can dry out skin, and not bathing enough can leave dirt on the coat. For most dogs, every four to eight weeks is a good starting point. Our guide on how often to bathe your dog in Australia explains this by coat type.
- Use lukewarm water, not hot, which can leave skin feeling tight.
- Choose a gentle shampoo made for dogs, such as the Essential Dog Sensitive Dog Shampoo.
- Rinse for longer than you think you need to, because leftover shampoo can irritate skin.
- Pat dry and let the coat dry fully, especially in skin folds.
Gentle things to try at home
These products are for everyday comfort. They are not treatments, and they do not replace advice from your vet.
- Dermal scratch spray: the Essential Dog Dermal Scratch Spray is made with aloe vera, calendula and vitamin E. It is $16.95 for 250ml and is an easy option to keep by the door after walks.
- Oatmeal cream: the Sensitive Dog Oatmeal Dermal Scratch Cream uses colloidal oatmeal, calendula and vitamin E. At $20.95 for 60g, it suits small areas of dry or scratchy skin.
- Patch test first: try a small amount on one spot and watch for redness for a day before using more.
- Keep products away from eyes and open wounds. If skin is broken, call your vet instead.
Barke. Collection is an official Australian stockist of Essential Dog, and you can see more in the Essential Dog collection.
Everyday habits that help
- Brush regularly to remove loose hair and dirt.
- Rinse off after swimming, beach trips and long grass walks. Our dog paw care in summer guide has tips for paws.
- Wash bedding often, and keep it dry.
- Keep your dog cool on hot days. See keeping dogs safe in Australian summer heat.
- Watch the ears too, as shaking and scratching can go together. Read how to clean dog ears safely.
When to see a vet
Book a visit if you notice any of these:
- Scratching, licking or chewing that is constant or wakes your dog at night
- Red, hot, weepy or broken skin, scabs or hair loss
- A strong smell from the skin or ears
- Head shaking, or a change in appetite or energy
- Itching that returns soon after bathing
Some breeds are more prone to skin sensitivity. Our article on dog breeds prone to skin problems in Australia is a good read.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use oatmeal products on my dog?
Oatmeal products made for dogs are a popular choice for everyday skin comfort. Patch test first, and ask your vet if your dog has any known skin conditions.
How can I tell if my dog's itching is serious?
If it is constant, causes broken skin or hair loss, or comes with a smell or behaviour changes, see your vet. They can look for the cause.
How often should I bathe an itchy dog?
There is no single answer, as it depends on the cause. Your vet can advise a schedule, and a mild dog shampoo is a sensible choice in the meantime.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
