Why Your Dog Food Might Be Making Them Itchy or Scratchy

Question

Why Your Dog Food Might Be Making Them Itchy or Scratchy

Short answer

Food can cause itching if there is food allergy or intolerance, but many itchy dogs have fleas, environmental allergies, infections, dermatitis, or other skin problems. Before switching foods repeatedly, investigate the cause.

How food may be involved

Some dogs react to specific proteins or ingredients. Signs may include itching, recurrent ear infections, paw licking, redness, digestive signs, or inflamed skin.

Why grain-free does not solve everything

Food allergy is not automatically grain allergy. It often involves proteins. Switching to grain-free without diagnosis may not help and can confuse the investigation.

What to do

Talk to your veterinarian about parasite control, infections, and whether an elimination or hydrolyzed diet trial makes sense. During a trial, treats and extras must be controlled.

Conclusion

Food may be the culprit, but do not assume without evidence. Persistent itching needs a veterinary plan, not random brand rotation.

Sources consulted

• AAFCO — Selecting the Right Pet Food: https://www.aafco.org/consumers/understanding-pet-food/selecting-the-right-pet-food/
• AAFCO — Natural: https://www.aafco.org/consumers/understanding-pet-food/natural/
• AAHA — Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines: https://www.aaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/new-2021-aaha-nutrition-and-weight-management-guidelines-with-ref.pdf
• AAHA — Nutritional Assessment: https://www.aaha.org/resources/life-stage-canine-2019/nutritional-assessment-2/
• WSAVA — Nutrition Guidelines: https://wsava.org/Global-Guidelines/Global-Nutrition-Guidelines/
• FDA — Proper Storage of Pet Food & Treats: https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/proper-storage-pet-food-treats
• PetMD — How To Store Dog Food: https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/how-to-store-dog-food
• PetMD — Dog Food Ingredients and Labels: https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/pet-food-ingredient-and-label-guide
• AKC — Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/best-dog-food-sensitive-stomachs/
• VCA — Skin, Coat and Diet: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/the-importance-of-your-pets-skin-and-coat-and-the-role-of-diet
• Merck Veterinary Manual — Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals