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My dog won't stop itching! Seasonal allergies not responding to meds.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | West Highland White Terrier | Male | neutered | 2 years and 6 months old | 22 lbs

My west highland white terrier has been incessantly itching, biting, and scratching himself for a few months now. He usually has seasonal allergies but they haven't gone away. I've tried a flea and tick pill but it hasn't made a difference. Neither does Benadryl. What else could it be?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 31st, 2017

Your dog may have a skin infection, most likely caused by his allergies or fleas. The allergies can be from a protein in his food or to something in the environment, like grasses, pollens, dust, etc. The allergies cause a breakdown in the skin barrier and make the dog very itchy. The excessive itching and licking cause the skin infection. I would recommend taking Leo in to see the vet so he can be started on some antibiotics to help clear up the skin. You may also ask about a medicated shampoo, these can help clear up the skin more quickly. I would also recommend discussing with your vet some options for medication to help control the allergy symptoms year round like Atopica, Apoquel, or Cytopoint. Good luck!

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    Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Westies are definitely predisposed to allergies. It's possible that his have progressed from seasonal to year round. Antihistamines may not be helpful at this point, so I would talk to your veterinarian about other options including steroids, apoquel, or a new injection called cytopoint. Allergy testing may be a good option as well.

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