Dear Pet Parents: Understanding Why Your Dog Scratches
Dear pet parents, when you see your dog scratching its body at home, isn't your first instinct to think, "It must be itchy." It's a natural reaction because scratching is often associated with itchiness. But is it always the case?
Scratching in dogs can be caused by a variety of reasons ranging from allergies, skin infections, parasites such as fleas, to dry skin or even stress. While itchiness is a common cause, it's important to observe your dog carefully to identify if there are other symptoms like redness, hair loss, or behavioral changes that might indicate a deeper issue.
As responsible pet parents, understanding the root cause of your dog's scratching can help you provide the appropriate care and treatment. If the scratching becomes frequent, intense, or leads to wounds, consulting a veterinarian is the best course of action to ensure your dog's health and comfort.
Remember, what seems like a simple itch could be a sign that your furry friend needs some extra attention.
Indeed, dogs usually scratch their bodies because their skin feels a bit uncomfortable, but this is not the only reason! Below is a summary of the "3 psychological states" dogs may be in when scratching, which might be their way of telling you about other issues!
1. Why Dogs Scratch: Understanding Itchy Skin
One of the most common reasons dogs scratch their bodies is due to itchy skin. Dogs may repeatedly scratch because of fleas, ticks, allergies, dryness, or dermatitis. Sometimes, the itching is mild and brief, but if scratching continues persistently, it's important to be alert and take action.
Additionally, dogs with double coats, such as Golden Retrievers and Shiba Inus, often experience matting and moist, warm skin during their shedding periods. These conditions can easily promote bacterial growth, leading to itching.
Remember, during shedding seasons, it's essential to groom your dog regularly. Brushing out excess loose hair helps keep their coat clean and can prevent skin problems before they start.
2. Understanding Canine Stress and Anxiety Behaviors
When dogs experience stress or nervousness, they may scratch themselves as a response. This behavior is known as a "calming signal," which means the dog is using certain actions to divert its attention and help itself calm down. Scratching is one of the ways dogs achieve this.
If a dog starts scratching its body during times of being scolded, encountering strangers, or feeling frustrated during training, it is likely because the dog feels anxious or scared. At these moments, it is important not to scold or force the dog. Instead, one should help the dog relax and provide a sense of security.
3. Understanding Your Dog's Attention-Seeking Behavior Through Scratching
Some dogs are very intelligent and quickly learn that scratching themselves can grab their owner's attention. When they realize that every time they scratch, you immediately react with concern or come over to pet them, they associate scratching with receiving love and care from you.
Therefore, if you notice your dog sneaking glances at you while scratching, it is likely they are using this behavior to seek affection and attention. In such cases, it is best to wait until your dog stops scratching and calms down before showing them love and care to avoid reinforcing this unintended learned behavior.
Conclusion
When a dog is scratching its body, it is not always simply because they are itchy. Sometimes, it could be a sign that your dog is stressed or seeking attention. As pet owners, it is important for us to interpret each scratching behavior based on the current situation and the dog's reaction.
If you notice your dog scratching frequently or if there are unusual symptoms such as redness or swelling on their skin, do not delay—take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible for a check-up!
