The Bottom Line on Dog Scratching: Here’s What To Do

It is incredibly normal to catch your dog having a scratch behind the ear when they’re idly relaxing in your home, but to notice them itching and scratching regularly is a different story altogether.

You see, the occasional scratch here and there is very normal – just as it is for humans, but constant scratching and chewing could be a sign of skin discomfort – and the relentless friction between their nails and their skin could make the situation significantly worse.

Common Places You’ll See Dogs Scratching

When a dog starts scratching excessively, it’s not always immediately clear what’s causing their discomfort. However, paying attention to where they’re scratching can provide important clues about the underlying issue. 

Different areas of the body are more prone to certain skin conditions, infections, or allergies, making it easier to narrow down the potential causes of itching:

• Ears
• Face and muzzle
• Belly and underarms
• Back
• Tail (typically near the base of the tail)
• Hindquarters

14 Reasons Your Dog Is Constantly Scratching And Biting

Identifying where your dog is scratching often can provide crucial clues about what may be triggering their discomfort.

Below, we’ll explore common areas where dogs experience itching, along with the potential underlying causes.

Ears

Frequent ear scratching, head shaking, or rubbing their ears against furniture or the floor is often a sign of irritation inside the ear canal. Several conditions can cause ear discomfort in dogs, ranging from parasitic infections to allergic reactions.

Yeast Infections

The warm, humid environment of a dog’s ear canal provides the perfect conditions for Malassezia, a type of yeast that naturally exists on the skin but can overgrow when conditions allow. Yeast infections are common in dogs with underlying allergies or those with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds. Symptoms include reddened skin, brown or yellow discharge, a musty odor, and persistent ear scratching.

Ear Mites 

These microscopic parasites live in the ear canal and feed on wax and oils, leading to intense itching and irritation. Dogs with ear mites will frequently scratch their ears, shake their heads, and may develop a crusty, dark discharge that resembles coffee grounds.

Allergies 

Dogs with underlying food or environmental allergies often experience chronic ear inflammation. Common triggers include pollens, mold spores, dust mites, or specific proteins in their diet. Unlike infections, allergy-related ear issues may cause intermittent irritation that worsens during certain seasons or after meals containing specific ingredients.

Untreated ear conditions can lead to painful secondary infections, so persistent ear scratching should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Face

If a dog frequently rubs their face, paws at their muzzle, or scratches around their eyes and nose, this could indicate skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Some breeds are more prone to facial itching due to their skin structure or immune sensitivities.

Skin Fold Dermatitis

Breeds with wrinkled faces, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shar-Peis, are particularly prone to bacterial and yeast infections within their skin folds. Moisture, sweat, and debris can become trapped in these areas, creating red, inflamed, and itchy skin. Without proper cleaning, infections can develop, leading to foul odors, discomfort, and secondary sores.

Contact Allergies 

Dogs can develop sensitivities to household cleaning products, perfumes, shampoos, or synthetic fabrics, leading to localized itching around the face and muzzle. Dogs that frequently rub their faces on carpets, bedding, or grass may be reacting to an environmental irritant.

Food Allergies

Certain proteins, such as chicken, beef, or dairy, can trigger itching around the mouth, ears, and paws. Dogs with food sensitivities often experience additional symptoms, including recurrent ear infections, digestive upset, or paw licking.

If a dog is persistently scratching their face, monitoring for redness, swelling, or hair loss can help identify whether an underlying skin condition or allergy is to blame.

Belly and Underarms

The belly, groin, and underarms are areas where dogs have less fur, making them more sensitive to allergens, irritants, and infections.

Contact Dermatitis

Exposure to grass, pesticides, detergents, or synthetic fabrics can cause itchy, inflamed skin on the underside of the body. Dogs may roll on the floor or scratch their belly excessively after outdoor exposure.

Bacterial Skin Infections

Also known as pyoderma, bacterial infections can develop when scratching causes small wounds or abrasions on the skin, allowing bacteria to multiply. Signs include red or pus-filled bumps, crusty scabs, and excessive licking.

Hot Spots

These painful, inflamed patches of skin develop when a dog persistently licks, bites, or scratches a specific area, often due to allergies, moisture buildup, or flea bites. Hot spots can spread quickly and may ooze fluid or develop a foul smell, requiring prompt treatment.

If a dog’s belly or underarm scratching becomes severe, a veterinarian can help determine whether allergies, infections, or parasites are the underlying cause.

Whole Body

When a dog is scratching all over their body, the issue may be widespread parasites, an inflammatory skin condition, or a lack of skin hydration.

Fleas and Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

Fleas are a common cause of excessive itching, particularly around the tail base, hind legs, and back. Some dogs develop flea allergy dermatitis, where even a single flea bite triggers severe itching, hair loss, and scabbing. Checking for the black flea “dirt” or using a flea comb can help confirm an infestation.

Mange (Sarcoptic or Demodectic Mites)

Sarcoptic mange (scabies) is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, a highly contagious mite that burrows into the skin, leading to intense itching, hair loss, and scabbing. Demodectic mange, caused by an overgrowth of Demodex mites that live in the hair follicles or oil glands of the skin, typically affects puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems and results in patchy hair loss rather than severe itching.

Dry Skin and Seasonal Changes

Dry indoor heating, low humidity, or a lack of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet can contribute to flaky, itchy skin. Dogs with dry skin may have dandruff-like flakes along their back or scratch persistently despite no visible rash.

Endocrine Disorders

Conditions such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can affect a dog’s skin health, leading to dryness, hair thinning, and recurrent infections.

If a dog’s full-body itching is severe or persistent, a veterinarian can perform skin scrapings, allergy tests, or blood work to determine the underlying cause.

Anal Gland Issues

Dogs with impacted or infected anal glands often exhibit scratching, scooting, or biting at their rear end. These small glands, located on either side of the anus (at the 4-and 8-o-clock positions), can become clogged or inflamed, causing discomfort. If the glands do not empty properly, dogs may:

• Lick or chew excessively at their hindquarters.
• Scoot their rear along the floor.
• Emit a strong, fishy-smelling odor.
• Develop redness, swelling, or even abscesses near the anus.

In some cases, anal gland infections or chronic impaction require veterinary intervention, including manual expression, antibiotics, or dietary adjustments to promote healthy gland function.

How To Help Dog Scratching

If your dog is constantly scratching, licking, or biting their skin, it’s important to take a holistic approach to managing their discomfort. While some causes of itching require veterinary intervention, there are several proactive steps pet parents can take to help their dogs feel more comfortable.

Check Their Diet

A dog’s diet plays a crucial role in skin and coat health, and food sensitivities can contribute to itchiness and irritation. If you suspect a food allergy, switching to a hypoallergenic diet or a food formulated for sensitive skin and stomach may help.

• Choose high-quality, nutrient-dense food to ensure your dog is getting the essential fatty acids and vitamins needed for a healthy skin barrier.
• If transitioning to a new food, introduce it gradually over two weeks to avoid digestive upset (i.e. vomiting and diarrhea).
• Ensure your dog is staying hydrated, as dehydration can lead to dry, flaky skin, which may contribute to excessive scratching.

Keep Up With Parasite Prevention

Fleas, ticks, and mites are some of the most common causes of skin irritation in dogs. Even if you don’t see fleas, some dogs are highly sensitive to flea bites and can develop flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) from just one or two bites.

• Keep your dog on a veterinarian-approved flea and parasite prevention plan year-round.
• Wash your dog’s bedding and vacuum regularly to minimize flea exposure in the home.
• If your dog has been scratching at their hindquarters or tail base, check for flea “dirt” or small black specks on their skin.

Give Them a Bath – But Not Too Often

Bathing your dog can help soothe itchy skin and remove allergens, but overbathing can strip their natural oils, making the problem worse. 

• Use a gentle, skin-friendly shampoo formulated specifically for dogs.
• Bathe as needed, depending on breed and coat type—some dogs benefit from monthly baths, while others may need them less frequently.
• After bathing, dry their ears, paws, and skin folds thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to yeast infections and irritation.

Regular brushing can also help distribute natural oils, remove dirt, and keep the skin and coat in good condition.

Manage Their Environment

Dogs can be sensitive to household chemicals, outdoor allergens, and environmental irritants. If your dog’s itching coincides with seasonal changes or time spent outdoors, their surroundings may be a factor.

• Wash bedding, blankets, and soft surfaces regularly to remove dust mites and allergens.
• Avoid using harsh cleaning products, air fresheners, and scented detergents, as these can trigger skin irritation.
• If your dog is prone to contact allergies, wipe their paws and belly after walks to remove pollen, grass, or other environmental irritants.
• Minimise exposure to pesticides, fertilizers, and lawn treatments, as these chemicals can cause itching and irritation when dogs roll or play on treated surfaces.

Try Over-the-Counter Anti-Itch Sprays

If your dog’s itching is mild and not caused by an infection or medical condition, an anti-itch spray may provide relief.

• Look for sprays containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera, colloidal oatmeal, or hydrocortisone (typically the 1% strength).
• Always follow the recommended usage guidelines, and if itching persists or worsens, consult a veterinarian.

Support Their Skin From the Inside Out

A healthy gut plays an important role in supporting the immune system and overall skin health. When a dog’s gut microbiome is out of balance, they may be more prone to occasional allergies and skin irritation.

• Ensuring your dog gets a nutritionally balanced diet can help maintain the protective skin barrier.
• Incorporating gut-supportive ingredients into their meals may help manage occasional itching and sensitivities.
• If your dog has persistent skin or allergy-related issues, a veterinarian can help guide you toward dietary modifications or additional support.

If your dog’s scratching becomes severe, leads to hair loss, or results in open sores or infections, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment. Keeping up with preventative care, diet, and environmental management can go a long way in keeping your dog’s skin healthy and itch-free.

When to See a Veterinarian About Your Dog’s Scratching

Occasional scratching is normal, but when your dog’s itching becomes excessive, it might be time to consult a veterinarian. While mild irritation can sometimes be managed at home, persistent, intense, or progressive scratching often signals an underlying issue that requires medical attention.

Signs That Your Dog’s Scratching Needs Veterinary Care

You should schedule a veterinary visit if you notice any of the following:

• Constant or obsessive scratching that doesn’t improve.
• Red, inflamed, or raw skin from excessive itching.
• Open sores, scabs, or bleeding from scratching or biting.
• Hair loss or bald patches, especially in concentrated areas.
• Signs of infection, such as pus, swelling, or a bad odor.
• Increased licking or chewing at paws, belly, or tail.
• Head shaking or ear scratching with dark discharge or a foul smell (possible ear infection).

When Scratching Requires Medical Treatment

Some causes of chronic scratching necessitate a definitive veterinary diagnosis and prescription treatments, including:

• Severe allergies (food, environmental, or seasonal) – May require antihistamines, prescription diets or diet trials,  allergy injections, or long-term anti-itch medications.
• Skin infections (bacterial or yeast) – Often treated with medicated shampoos, oral antibiotics, or antifungals.
• Mite or flea infestations – Can require consistent use of prescription-strength flea preventatives or anti-parasitic medications.
• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., hypothyroidism) – Blood tests may be needed to diagnose and manage underlying conditions.
• Autoimmune skin disorders – Generally require long-term management with specia topical and oral medications.

If left untreated, excessive scratching can lead to secondary infections, chronic skin damage, and significant discomfort for your pup. A veterinarian can help identify the root cause and recommend an effective treatment plan to get your dog’s skin back to being healthy and itch-free!

Dog Keeps Scratching Final Thoughts

The easiest way to deal with a dog that keeps scratching is to find the underlying cause as soon as possible! With so many reasons for the irritation, you need to first identify the source, then you can tackle the problem. 

It is very easy to just assume that your dog’s itching, gnawing, and scratching is normal, but it might not be the case. Try to make sure you’re regularly grooming your fluffy pal and keeping an eye on the health of their skin. There are many ways you can support your pup’s health with a few simple changes in your home and routine.  

Please make sure to consult your veterinarian before you take any decisive action, as they are best suited to help you assess your dog’s medical needs.

Sources

Author Dunn. T. J DVM “Skin Problems In Dogs” Pet MD, Mar 10. 2011 https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/evr_dg_skin_problems

Author Hunter, Tammy DVM and Ward, Ernest DVM “Yeast Dermatitis In Dogs” VCA Hospitals https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/yeast-dermatitis-in-dogs