My dog is itching constantly. Is Benadryl safe for his skin?

Question

My dog has been itchy for 3 weeks. Can he have benadryl for itching? Pet's info: Dog | English Springer Spaniel | Female | spayed | 7 years and 7 months old | 62 lbs

Kevin Sanada, DVM · Accepted Answer

We cannot advise medication (legally and ethically) on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, but I can give you some ideas about how to help this problem. Itchy skin is often due to the following things: 1) Allergies - this can happen suddenly and is usually due to an environmental (i.e pollen) cause. 2) External parasites - fleas, lice and mites can all cause intense itching. It's good to check her for fleas and get treatment if needed. 3) Over-bathing, or using the wrong product for bathing - Bathing too often can cause the skin to get dry and irritated. Dogs should normally be bathed no more than once a month with a shampoo that is labeled for dogs. If you bathe more than that, or use a shampoo or soap that is meant for people, then you could be damaging the normal protective barrier of the skin. It's worthwhile to take Heidi to the vet and find out the cause of the itching prior to giving any medication. One safe thing you can do for itchy skin, is give a bath with cool water using an oatmeal or aloe shampoo. You can get these shampoos at the pet store. I hope this helps and Heidi gets better soon.

My dog is itching constantly. Is Benadryl safe for his skin?

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