Itchy or Flaky Skin in Dogs
Itchy or flaky skin in dogs is a common concern for many owners and can appear in dogs of any age or breed. While occasional scratching is normal, frequent itching, visible flakes or ongoing discomfort usually indicates that the skin barrier is irritated or compromised. Addressing these signs early helps prevent further discomfort and reduces the risk of secondary infections.
Common Causes of Itchy or Flaky Skin
Dogs may develop skin irritation for a wide range of reasons. Environmental allergies are among the most frequent causes. Pollen, grasses, moulds and house dust mites can trigger sensitivity and lead to persistent itching. Food allergies may also contribute, particularly when a dog reacts to certain proteins or additives in its diet.
Parasites such as fleas remain a major trigger for itching. Even a single flea bite can cause intense irritation in dogs with flea allergy dermatitis. Maintai...
Itchy or Flaky Skin in Dogs
Itchy or flaky skin in dogs is a common concern for many owners and can appear in dogs of any age or breed. While occasional scratching is normal, frequent itching, visible flakes or ongoing discomfort usually indicates that the skin barrier is irritated or compromised. Addressing these signs early helps prevent further discomfort and reduces the risk of secondary infections.
Common Causes of Itchy or Flaky Skin
Dogs may develop skin irritation for a wide range of reasons. Environmental allergies are among the most frequent causes. Pollen, grasses, moulds and house dust mites can trigger sensitivity and lead to persistent itching. Food allergies may also contribute, particularly when a dog reacts to certain proteins or additives in its diet.
Parasites such as fleas remain a major trigger for itching. Even a single flea bite can cause intense irritation in dogs with flea allergy dermatitis. Maintaining consistent parasite control is often essential for dogs with sensitive skin.
Dry skin may develop due to central heating, low humidity, excessive bathing with harsh products or inadequate dietary fatty acids. Some dogs naturally have more delicate skin that requires regular moisturising support.
Bacterial and yeast overgrowth can occur when the skin barrier becomes damaged. These infections are often secondary, meaning they develop because the dog has already been scratching or licking the area due to an underlying condition.
Certain medical conditions, including hypothyroidism or hormonal imbalances, can influence skin health. In these cases, the itching or flaking may accompany additional symptoms such as coat thinning, lethargy or changes in appetite.
Recognising the Signs
Symptoms of itchy or flaky skin can present in various ways. Some dogs show mild dandruff, particularly along the back or behind the ears. Others may repeatedly chew or lick their paws, legs or underside. Redness, hair loss and small scabs may appear when the irritation persists. A musty odour, greasy coat or darkened skin can indicate a yeast imbalance.
Monitoring changes over time is helpful. A sudden onset of itching may suggest an external trigger such as fleas or environmental exposure, whereas recurring seasonal symptoms may point toward airborne allergens.
Supporting Skin Health at Home
A consistent skincare routine can provide significant relief. Gentle, veterinary-approved shampoos help cleanse away allergens and soothe irritated skin without stripping natural oils. Regular grooming also assists in removing dead skin cells and improving circulation.
Ensuring your dog receives a balanced diet with adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supports the skin’s natural barrier. Many dogs with dry or flaky skin benefit from added essential fatty acid supplements, which help maintain moisture and reduce inflammation.
Maintaining the home environment is also useful. Washing bedding regularly, vacuuming areas where your dog rests and managing indoor humidity levels can reduce environmental triggers.
Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment
Because itchy or flaky skin can arise from many causes, a veterinary assessment is often the most reliable way to identify the underlying issue. Your vet may perform skin scrapings, allergy testing or examine your dog’s medical history to reach a diagnosis. Treatment plans vary depending on the cause but may include medicated shampoos, dietary adjustments, supplements or prescription therapies to reduce inflammation and support the skin barrier.
Dogs with chronic skin conditions may require ongoing management. Working closely with your vet ensures you can adapt your dog’s skincare plan as needed and maintain long-term comfort.
Vitapet Moult Formula is a unique blend of natural oils rich in Omega-6 fatty acids vital to help reduce excessive moulting and promote a healthy glossy coat. Adding Vitapet Moult Formula to your dog’s diet can help them look their best all year round, especially during moulting season.
Sebolytic Shampoo is a medicated shampoo for Cats & Dogs containing a unique combination of ingredients including tea tree oil. 250ml
DermAllay Oatmeal Shampoo is an easy lather and rinse formulation designed for frequent use. DermAllay Oatmeal Shampoo for Cats and Dogs contains soothing and moisturising Oatmeal which helps to remove skin impurities.
DermAllay Shampoo helps to alleviate discomfort associated with dry and itchy skin. Its moisturising properties ensure that the skin remains hydrated, reducing the likelihood of flakiness or irritation. Additionally, the gentle formula is suitable for frequent use, allowing pet owners to maintain their pet's coat and skin health without the worry of harsh chemicals.
Allermyl Shampoo is a high-quality, veterinary-recommended shampoo designed to provide lasting relief for dogs and cats suffering from itchy skin. This condition, often caused by allergies, can lead to discomfort and distress in your pet, making Allermyl Shampoo an essential part of your pet care routine.
Itchy skin in pets can be a symptom of various underlying issues, including allergies, parasites, or skin infections. It can cause your pet to scratch, lick, or chew their skin excessively, leading to further complications such as skin damage, hair loss, and secondary infections. Allermyl Shampoo is specifically formulated to address this issue, providing soothing relief to your pet's irritated skin.
Allermyl Shampoo works by utilising a unique, unscented, micro-emulsion formulation that is fully hypo-allergenic. It contains Monosaccharides, Vitamin E, and Linoleic acid, an Omega 6 compound, all of which are known for their skin-soothing properties. This combination of ingredients helps to maintain the natural microbial balance of your pet's skin, restoring skin integrity and the epidermal barrier function.
Allermyl Pet Shampoo is easy to use. Simply shake well before use, wet your pet's coat with warm water, and apply sufficient shampoo to create a rich lather. Massage the shampoo into the coat with circular movements and rinse. Repeat the process, leaving the shampoo on the coat for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water. For optimal results, use Allermyl Shampoo once or twice weekly.
Cortavance Spray is a cutaneous spray solution for symptomatic treatment of inflammatory and pruritic dermatoses in dogs.
Cortavance Spray for Dogs is a highly effective solution for the management and treatment of inflammatory and itchy skin diseases in dogs. Cortavance topical spray is formulated with hydrocortisone aceponate, a potent ingredient renowned for its anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic properties. It works by targeting the underlying inflammation, reducing redness and swelling, and alleviating the incessant itchiness associated with skin diseases.
The spray is non-greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin, providing rapid relief from discomfort. Its targeted action ensures that the active ingredient is delivered directly to the affected areas, maximising efficacy while minimising systemic absorption.
Cortavance Spray contains fluticasone propionate and delivers the drug directly to the site of action on the skin, where it blocks the release of inflammatory mediators that are thought to contribute to skin inflammation. 31ml. VET PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
Cortavance Spray is a highly effective solution designed to provide relief to your beloved canine companion suffering from pruritis.
Pruritis, or itching, is a common condition in dogs that can result in discomfort, inflammation, and even injury due to excessive scratching. Cortavance for dogs is a topical spray that targets the underlying cause of pruritis, ensuring your pet receives the care they need to alleviate itching and promote healing.
76ml. VET PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
Coatex Capsules are a specially formulated dietary supplement designed to support skin and coat health in dogs and cats. They contain a balanced blend of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that help maintain a healthy, glossy coat while supporting overall dermatological health. Coatex Capsules are particularly beneficial for pets suffering from dry, itchy, or flaky skin, as well as those prone to allergic skin conditions.
Coatex Capsules contain a unique combination of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids, which play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s natural barrier function. These fatty acids cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained through diet. The formulation also includes other key nutrients that work together to improve coat texture, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin hydration.
When given regularly, Coatex Capsules help to restore the balance of essential fatty acids in the skin. This can reduce excessive shedding, alleviate itchiness, and improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega fatty acids also provide relief for pets suffering from allergic dermatitis and other skin-related conditions.
Pack of 240 Capsules
Coatex is an oral supplement for assisting the management of dermatological conditionsin dogs and cats as well as general coat improvement. 150ml Pump
Coatex Medicated Shampoo
Coatex Medicated Shampoo is a gentle yet effective cleansing formulation designed for dogs and cats with skin conditions such as dermatitis, poor coat quality, and flaky or greasy skin. It supports the management of common dermatological issues by helping to remove debris, soothe irritation, and restore the skin’s natural balance. This veterinary-strength shampoo is suitable for regular use as part of a complete skin and coat care routine.
How Coatex Medicated Shampoo Works
Coatex Medicated Shampoo works by combining mild cleansing agents with skin-conditioning ingredients that help maintain the natural oils essential for a healthy coat. Its formulation is designed to clean deeply without stripping away vital moisture. The active components help break down excess grease, remove dead skin cells, and flush out irritants that can contribute to inflammation or infection.
When massaged into the coat, the shampoo forms a rich lather that penetrates to the skin’s surface. This allows the active ingredients to work directly where they are needed. It helps to reduce microbial build-up while leaving the coat clean, soft, and manageable. Regular use promotes a more balanced skin environment, supporting natural healing and barrier repair.
250ml Coatex Shampoo with Aloe & Oatmealis a soothing conditioner formulated with moisturisers, Vitamins A, D, & E and Chamomile for normal, sensitive, or dry skin.
Formulated with coconut oil, oatmeal, aloe vera and vitamin E, Coatex will keep your pet's skin and coat healthy by restoring moisture and nutrients. Coatex rinse-off dog shampoo has a rich lather that cleanses effectively while massaging your dog's skin gently.
Coatex is a soothing conditioner formulated with moisturisers, Vitamins A, D, & E and Chamomile for normal, sensitive, or dry skin
Coatex Liquid is a balanced blend of essential oils that have been identified as being essential for maintaining a healthy skin and coat condition in dogs and cats.
This unique combination of natural ingredients is formulated to assist the management of dermatological conditions such as atopy (skin allergies) in dogs and miliary dermatitis (rashy skin disease) in cats.
Coatex Pump also promotes general coat improvement by promoting healthy skin, minimising itching and decreasing dander production.
