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My dog is itchy and restless after grooming. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

My 10 month old Shih tzu was groomed yesterday (third time being groomed) and ever since she's been horrible uncomfortable. She's been itchy and gets sudden itches and darts across the bed or floor. She was up until 2:30 in the morning and I finally broke down and gave her half a benedryl. She slept but the behaviour has continued throughout the day and she's restless again tonight. She's got no visable rash or nips. I feel helpless as she's so uncomfortable.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 26th, 2017

Lilly Lynne may have a bit of rash or razor burn if she was trimmed close. First be sure she is on appropriate flea control as she may have picked up fleas from groomer. Benedryl is acceptable to use once or twice daily if it give her relief. She may also be having a reaction to the shampoo or fragrance the groom used. I would give her a bath in dawn to wash off any residue to see if that helps. (Original blue dish soap dawn). If no improvement then she may need a vet visit. I hope she’s back to normal quickly. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    My guess is that she is reacting to the shampoo products that were used. If it happened right after you brought her home, then there's not much of a chance that she picked up any bugs, because there would normally be a delay in the itching. I reccomend giving a bath with just cool water. Rinse her well for at- least 15 minutes. This should hopefully get rid of the product causing the itch. If she is still itching the next day, then try rinsing again. I would expect that the itch will resolve in a couple of days. If it gets worse, then I reccomend taking her to the vet. I hope that helps and the itch gets better soon.

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