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My dog has red, itchy skin. What are home remedies for dog allergies?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 35 lbs

My dog has been itching quite frequently ever since we got him, which was about a month and a half ago, and has very red and irritated skin. We don’t know what’s causing it and I can’t convince my parents to take him to the vet. I was wondering if there’s anything I can do to help my dog?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 13th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is possibly due to allergies. A secondary infection is likely and also needs to be addressed. There are many things that can cause allergies though in most cases they can be broken down into 3 big categories: flea, food and environmental allergies. Allergies are usually worked up in a stepwise fashion starting with flea allergies as this is the easiest and cheapest to take care of. If not on a flea preventative, then it would be a good idea to get started on one. If already on one then it would be a good idea to change to something else (there are many new products out in the market). If not improved in 1-3 months then it is time to move on and check for food allergies by switching to a novel diet (new protein and new carbohydrate). If that does not seem to be the issue then you are left out having to check for environmental allergies which require blood and/or skin tests. Allergies can be very frustrating to deal with at first but so rewarding at the end when we are able to treat them effectively!

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    Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    These areas are some of the most common places for allergies to manifest. Allergies commonly appear at age 2-4 but can develope at any time. If that is the case, they are usually environmental but if you’ve switched food or added a new treat in the last few weeks, that could be a cause too. Finally, new shampoo, change in laundry soap, etc can also cause this to flare up. You can try Benedryl (you’ll have to call a vet for a dose) and a skin strengthening/anti itch shampoo like Duoxo Calm (available online, use twice weekly during flare ups and once weekly or every other week for maintenance). Fish oil supplements can also help, though it can take a month or so to see those effects. Finally, put a cone on him (if licking) or a t-shirt (if scratching) for about a week to let those areas heal up. For about 30% of dogs with itching, this combination will be enough. If it does not improve within 2 weeks, or worsening at any time, you’ll have to see a vet for prescription treatment. Best wishes to you and Bernie!

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