What should I do if my dog has itchy skin and keeps losing fur? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has itchy skin and is losing fur, there are several common reasons this can happen, including fleas, skin irritation, allergies, dry skin, or licking and scratching that’s gone on for a while. You can check a few simple things at home first, but if it’s not settling or the skin looks sore, a vet check is sensible.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the itching is worse after walks, grooming, washing, or time outdoors.
2. Look closely for fleas, flea dirt, mites, or signs of other insects in the coat.
3. Check the skin for redness, scabs, broken skin, swelling, heat, or discharge.
4. Notice where the fur loss is happening, such as around the base of the tail, belly, paws, ears, or face.
5. See whether your dog is licking, chewing, rubbing, or scratching one area more than usual.
6. Think about any recent changes in food, shampoo, bedding, cleaning products, or the home environment.
7. Check whether the coat also looks dull, flaky, greasy, or generally poorly kept.
Common Causes
Fleas are one of the most common causes of itching and hair loss, even if you do not see any at first.
Skin allergies can also make dogs itchy. These may be linked to food, grass, pollen, dust, or something in the environment.
Dry skin, frequent washing, unsuitable grooming products, or friction from collars, harnesses, or bedding can sometimes contribute too.
Less commonly, skin infections, mites, or hormonal issues may be involved, especially if the fur loss is spreading or the skin looks sore.
What To Do
Start by checking the coat and skin carefully, then note where the itching is happening and how long it has been going on. If you suspect fleas, follow a proper flea-control routine for all pets in the home and the environment.
Keep the skin as calm as you can. Use gentle grooming, avoid harsh shampoos, and try not to over-wash the coat. If your dog is licking or scratching a lot, reducing the trigger area and keeping bedding clean may help limit further irritation.
Take a photo of any patches of fur loss so you can compare whether things are improving or getting worse. If the skin is repeatedly inflamed, or the coat loss keeps spreading, it’s a good idea to speak to your vet.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the skin is sore, red, smelly, crusted, or oozing, or if your dog seems uncomfortable, is losing fur in patches that are spreading, or the problem has been going on for more than a few days without improvement.
You should also get advice sooner if your dog seems unwell, is scratching non-stop, or if you suspect mites, infection, or an allergy that needs proper diagnosis.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s skin is getting itchy or their coat is looking patchy, a gentle routine for washing and grooming may help support comfort and make it easier to keep an eye on changes.
Related Questions
Why is my dog itching more than usual?
Could fleas cause my dog to lose fur?
When should I worry about patchy hair loss in my dog?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.