My dog is still scratching, even with the supplements: why?
Itching in dogs is a common problem that can be frustrating for dog owners. You may have tried several solutions, including natural supplements, but your dog continues to scratch? This is normal if the cause of the problem hasn't been identified and addressed. Today, I'll explain why and how to help your dog regain optimal comfort.
Possible causes of itching
First and foremost, it's important to understand that itching isn’t a disease in itself, but rather a symptom. It can be caused by a multitude of factors, including:
• Parasites (fleas, mites, dust mites, etc.)
Even if your dog is treated for fleas, some parasites like mange mites can be more difficult to detect.
• Environmental allergies
Pollen, dust mites, or even certain household products can trigger reactions in your dog.
• Food intolerances
Certain ingredients in your dog's food, such as chicken, beef, or even certain additives, can cause itching.
• A leaky gut
An imbalanced gut microbiota can make the immune system more reactive and promote skin reactions.
• Yeasts (Malassezia, Candida, etc.)
An overgrowth of yeast on the skin or in the intestine can cause intense itching, often accompanied by unpleasant odors and redness.
Supplements help… but they don’t do everything!
Our supplements have been designed to support your dog's skin and immune system health. They provide essential nutrients to soothe inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
But be careful! If the underlying cause of the problem is still present (such as an allergen or an infection), supplements alone won't solve the problem. It's a bit like putting soothing balm on a cut without cleaning the wound first.
How to find the cause and relieve your dog's symptoms
If your dog is still scratching despite using supplements, it's essential to investigate to identify the source of the problem. Here are the steps I recommend:
1. Check for and treat parasites
Even if your dog doesn't appear to have fleas, regular preventative measures are essential. A visit to the vet can be helpful to rule out the presence of mites or other parasites invisible to the naked eye.
2. Optimize your diet
Diet plays a crucial role in skin health and the immune system. A suitable diet, with quality ingredients and a good balance of omega-3 fatty acids, can make all the difference. If you suspect an intolerance, an elimination diet may be necessary.
Need help? I'm here to support you with my canine nutrition consultation service. Together, we can create a plan tailored to your dog!
3. Supports its digestive system
A healthy gut means a healthy dog! Probiotics and a more natural diet can help rebalance its microbiota.
4. Monitor for yeast and skin infections
If your dog has an unusual odour, licks excessively, or has redness, it could be a yeast overgrowth or infection. A veterinary consultation may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
In summary
If your dog continues to scratch despite using supplements, it's probably because the underlying cause hasn't been identified yet. It's important to take a comprehensive approach that includes:
• A suitable and balanced diet
• A check for parasites and possible infections
• Support for the gut microbiota
• A personalized approach tailored to your dog's needs
If you have any questions or would like guidance on your dog's diet, I'm here to help with my consultation service. Don't hesitate to contact me!
Karine Simard, Agronomist, M.Sc.
Parent-dog x 4
