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My dog is scratching and biting himself. Is it allergies or lice?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

What can I do if my dog is constantly scratching and biting ay himself? It most definitely isn't flees. I've checked several times for them. Is it possible that he could have body lice that humans carry?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 3rd, 2017

Place an e-collar (cone) on him to prevent further licking or chewing. Have him examined by your veterinarian to diagnose skin infection, allergies or external parasites such as mites. Lice are typically species or host specific meaning dog lice stick to dogs and human lice stick to humans.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 29th, 2017

    Place an e-collar (cone) on Ferdinand to prevent trauma from excessive licking or chewing. Check him over for fleas or evidence of fleas. Treat him with a topical preventative or oral flea medication if indicated. Wash all bedding, vacuum everywhere and use an area treatment to prevent future infestation. Check his skin for redness, sores or bleeding. If you see any, have him examined by your veterinarian to diagnose and treat skin infection (bacterial or fungal). Allergies can also cause his symptoms. They can be frustrating to diagnose since they have multiple causes. You can discuss allergy testing, hydrolyzed diets and food elimination trials with your veterinarian.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on March 10th, 2020

    It could be allergies or infection (bacterial, fungal, mites). Fleas or flea bites also cannot be ruled out. Treat Bogard and the environment for fleas to be sure. Consider an exam with your veterinarian to diagnose and treat infection. Discuss allergy testing, hydrolyzed diets, food elimination trials and antihistamine use with your veterinarian. An e-collar or small tee shirt can be used to prevent licking, chewing or scratching.

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