Chihuahuas can be prone to skin problems. There can be many different causes of itchy skin, but, it is certainly not uncommon for Chihuahuas to suffer from them. It can be very frustrating to see your dog miserably scratching and not know how to help them and it can be difficult to figure out what exactly is the cause and how to prevent scratching all the time. The problem is there are many different skin issues that can affect the Chihuahua breed. The three MAIN reasons for your Chihuahua to be constantly scratching are:
- Parasites
- Allergies
- Skin Infections
Let’s discuss the symptoms and treatments of each
Parasites:
Parasites can definitely cause your dog to scratch. Some of them are well known and common. These are some common parasites:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Lice
- Mange
- Ringworm
If you see that they scratch around the rump area and around the neck it is most likely a flea allergy. That is where fleas live on a dog. You can then prevent scratching by treating for fleas.
If they are scratching their elbows, the tips of the ears or chest area, it is probably mange That is where the mites live.
How To Treat For Parasites:
The best way to treat parasites is prevention. Make sure that your dog is treated regularly for fleas, and tics. This is usually on a monthly basis. Even in the winter they need to be protected. Reasons why most vets recommend year around protection are as follows:
Fleas can live for up to five days in temperatures as low as 33 degrees. That is long enough for them to latch on to your dog, come into the house and enjoy the warmth all winter long.
The eggs that fleas lay can live all year in spaces such as crawl spaces or porches.
Ticks can become active again in temperatures as low as 32 degrees according to some experts. So on those winter days when the temperature is warm and you and your dog go out to enjoy a walk in the sunshine you are also exposing him to ticks.
There are many different products for preventing and treating parasites. The most common is with commercial prevenatives such as Frontline, Advantix, Seresto, etc.
Or there now are some herbal and natural trements that work just as well.
You might want to read: “Wait! Before You Buy Any More Flea & Tick Products — What You Need To Know.” before you decide what is best for your Chi
allergies:
The three main causes of allergies are:
- Food allergies
- Skin Allergies
- Environmental Allergies
How To Treat Allergies:
Again Prevention is the best treatment. Some things you can look for are:
What is the air quality in your home? Pets are much more sensitive to second-hand smoke and other airborne toxins than we are.
Chihuahuas are closer to the ground and therefore environmental allergens than other breeds
Is your dog drinking fresh clean water? Your dog deserves quality drinking water as much as we do. They need water that doesn’t have fluoride, heavy metals, or other contaminants.
Having a filtered water bowl will make a world of difference in their health and even their breath! There are many different types and sizes of bowls. Some you simply plug in and if their bowl is not near a plug in their are those that have rechargeable batteries. You can find one that is just right for you, your Chihuahua, and your budget!
Don’t over-vaccinate or over-medicate your dog. I’m not telling you to go against your veterinarian’s advice here. I’m suggesting, however, that you consider exactly what vaccinations that your dog, in your particular part of the world really needs. Do some research.
Of course, you want to make sure that your dog is protected from preventable diseases, however, there is a big difference between protecting them and putting unnecessary toxins into their bodies. The same goes for flea and tick treatments. If your dog seems sensitive to these treatments try using some natural less harsh treatments.
Don’t forget to bathe your dog. Bathing is especially necessary for dogs with allergies. Bathing rinses the allergens away and brings immediate relief to your dog. Remember that your little tiny Chi is very close to the ground where they can pick up dust and allergens that you aren’t even aware are there, most of which have come from outside. Pollens, ragweed, molds, and spores for example.
Food allergies are less common but can be more severe. To figure out what ingredients in their food that they are allergic to will require putting them on an elimination diet.
skin infections:
Skin allergies are also known as allergic dermatitis. Causes of skin allergies are the very same: Parasites and allergies. It becomes allergic dermatitis when your Chihuahua has scratched so much the skin becomes infected.
How To Treat Skin Infections:
If the infection is bacterial, bathing is the best treatment. But bathe them in a good quality medicated shampoo, one that contains an antibacterial ingredient. Bathe them twice a week for two weeks and then once a week for a month, only once a month after that.
If the infection is fungal then bathe them in an antifungal shampoo. Follow the same suggestions as above for when and for how long.
There are many different antibacterial and antifungal shampoos, wipes, and sprays that may help.
conclusion
In conclusion, while occasional scratching is normal for Chihuahuas, persistent itching can signal an underlying issue that needs attention. From allergies and skin infections to parasites and environmental factors, understanding the potential causes is the first step toward finding effective solutions. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and prompt veterinary care can go a long way in keeping your Chihuahua’s skin healthy and itch-free. Remember, your furry companion relies on you to ensure their comfort and well-being, so don’t hesitate to consult a vet if scratching becomes excessive or if you notice other concerning symptoms. A happy, healthy Chihuahua is a scratch-free Chihuahua!