Why is my dog shedding and scratching at the same time? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog is shedding and scratching at the same time, it usually means the skin or coat is irritated in some way. Common causes include fleas or other parasites, allergies, dry skin, a change in grooming routine, or a coat that’s tangled, dirty or not being brushed out properly.
It’s worth checking the coat and skin carefully first, because the answer is often something you can spot at home. If the scratching is persistent, the skin looks sore, or the shedding is much heavier than usual, your vet should take a look.
Things To Check
1. Look for flea dirt, live fleas or other tiny insects in the coat, especially around the base of the tail, belly and neck.
2. Part the fur and check for redness, scabs, flakes, sore patches or broken skin.
3. Notice whether the scratching started after a new shampoo, groom, bedding change, food change or walk in long grass.
4. Check whether the coat feels dry, greasy, matted or full of loose undercoat that may be trapping dirt and irritants.
5. See if the itching is focused on one area or happening all over, as that can help narrow down what’s going on.
6. Pay attention to ears, paws and belly, since these areas often show irritation early.
7. Think about whether your dog has had this before at a certain time of year, after walks, or after being washed.
Common Causes
Fleas and other parasites are one of the most common reasons for scratching and excess shedding. Even if you don’t spot a flea, they can still be present.
Allergies can also cause itching, licking and coat loss. These may be linked to food, pollen, dust, grass or household irritants.
Dry skin or a grooming mismatch can make a dog shed more than usual and feel uncomfortable. Overwashing, poor brushing, or using a harsh shampoo can sometimes add to the problem.
Less commonly, skin infections, hormonal issues or other health problems can affect both the coat and the skin. These need proper veterinary assessment rather than guesswork.
What To Do
Start by brushing your dog gently and regularly to remove loose fur and check the skin underneath. If the coat is matted, take it slowly so you don’t irritate the skin further.
Keep a note of when the scratching happens, what your dog was exposed to, and any changes in the skin or coat. That information can be really useful if you do need to speak to a vet.
Wash bedding regularly, vacuum areas your dog uses often, and avoid any new grooming products until you know what’s causing the irritation. If you do bathe your dog, use a product suited to dogs and rinse thoroughly.
If the issue keeps coming back, is getting worse, or your dog seems unsettled, uncomfortable or sore, book a vet appointment so the cause can be checked properly.
Products That May Help
If your dog is shedding more than usual, a gentle grooming and cleaning routine can make coat care easier at home. The arlo.® Pet Care collection may help support that kind of day-to-day maintenance.
Related Questions
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Can shedding be a sign of allergies in dogs?
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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.