My dog is always itchy. What causes constant itching, dry skin, and dandruff?

Question

My dog (5-year old male chihuahua mix) is always itchy. He eats a special dog food recommended by our the vet for sensitive skin and stomach, takes Trifexis on a regular basis, and is given a bath monthly. No matter what, he seems to struggle with dry skin which results in dandruff. My question is what factors could result in constant itchiness? Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 4 months old | 19 lbs

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

Itchiness can be caused by various reasons such as fleas, mites ,fungal infection, bacterial infection and allergies. the first 4 needs to be ruled out before we start treating for allergies. in order to do that first de-flea Sebby with a high quality flea treatment such as advantage spot on, if it doesn't help - take him to the vet in order to check for/treat the other possibilities. If everything is ruled out, then an allergy treatment can be started. Usually an hypoallergenic food is a good way to start together with anti histamines. if it doesn't help - the best solution is a medication called Apoquel which treats allergies with great success and without side effects.

My dog is always itchy. What causes constant itching, dry skin, and dandruff?

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