German Shepherds are known for having double coat – the top coat and the under coat. The topcoat protects them from sun and dust whereas the undercoat protects them from the weather both in summer and winter.
It is not advised to wash them too regularly. The undercoats hold natural oils, which if washed regularly can cause dry and flaky skin. However, brushing is regularly is important, otherwise it also can lead to skin problems.
German Shepherd itching like crazy?
German Shepherds are mostly prone to skin allergies. All the skin problems are caused by their own skin. They are often manifesting in painful skin allergies that put their life in danger.
German Shepherds might be itching like crazy because of some medicine allergies or skin allergies or because of dry skin; some might even have genetic allergies. This skin allergy is called “atopy” – they are common to this condition.
The feet and belly folds of the skin are the areas mostly affected by atopy. These symptoms may start between the ages of one to three; if not taken care of this can become very serious.
Read: 6 Super-Effective Ways to Improve German Shepherd Coat
Skin problems in German Shepherd
1. Flea Allergy or Flea Bite Hypersensitivity
It is seen especially on the back of the dog. Only one bite can cause severe reaction and lead to intense itching. Caused by the saliva of the flea, you will see red spots on the bitten area of your dog’s skin.
2. Food Allergy
Animal protein like chicken, pork and beef causes food allergy in German Shepherds.
3. Environmental Allergy
Pollen-related allergies around the mouth, eyes, armpits, stomachs and ears is very common in German Shepherds. Your dog may also experience eye allergy due to pollen allergy but it is not life threatening; eye drops will help feel your dog at ease.
Environmental allergy can also happen because of dust, human dander, fungus, wet grass etc.
4. Contact Hypersensitivity
Contact allergy can be triggered by coming in contact with skin. Body parts where there is less skin such as paws, armpits, belly – these areas are mostly affected by this allergy.
5. Insect Bite Hypersensitivity
German Shepherds have a reactive immune system. When they are most exposed to the environment, any insect bite triggers their immune system.
6. Combination Allergies and their Secondary Effects
Just like any other breed, German Shepherds are also affected by more than one allergy.
Symptoms of skin allergies
- Excessive scratching.
- Excessive licking.
- Face rubbing.
- Scooting on the surface.
- Sores.
- Hair loss.
- Starts to smell unpleasant.
- Hives.
- Swelling round the face, ears and lip.
- Red inflamed skin.
What causes German Shepherd itchy skin?
- When German shepherds come in contact with flea saliva, they tend to get allergic reaction.
- Your dog may be allergic to some foods consumption of which may lead to food allergy, such as milk, meat, grapes, etc.
- Insect bite.
- Moist dermatitis.
- Dust.
- Parasite allergy.
- Seasonal allergies.
- Medicine allergy.
10 quick solutions for German Shepherd itchy skin
- If your dog is bitten by a flea, bath them immediately to get rid of fleas and use citrus essential oil or lemon juice to rub in the inflamed skin.
- Add food containing real ingredients like, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals; avoid artificial ingredients or additives.
- Use hypoallergenic or sulphate-free shampoo; you can also use shampoo recommended by your vet. Products containing either tea tree oil or Aloe Vera are proven to be helpful for skin allergies.
- Coconut oil also has many beneficial properties and is the best for dry and flaky skin.
- Flea treatment products are most effective for flea bite.
- Medicine made for skin allergy.
- Moisturizing creams and sprays are very effective for skin allergy and dry skin.
- Anti-inflammatory supplements like salmon and hemp oil blend will not only help with itchy skin but also make their coat shiny.
- Stop using air fresheners or any kind of artificial spray; it will worsen their skin allergy. Rather switch to natural cleaning products.
- Try using home remedies such as apple cider vinegar, oatmeal bath, chamomile and green tea soak, baking soda and water paste.
Tips to maintain German Shepherd skin
- Avoid taking your dog out for walk early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid pollen allergy.
- Regular vacuum or bath and brushing will also reduce the tendency of skin allergy.
- Keep your dog away from moist places and try to keep them in humid places.
- Make sure they do not come in contact with flea or insect.
- Add food types to increase natural oil in their body.
- Keep them clean, especially in winter season.
- Add a humidifier; it will decrease the scratching.
Conclusion
German Shepherds are prone to many skin allergies due to various reasons. These are not life-threatening but if not taken care of, they might get dangerous.
Read: How to maintain good health of your German Shepherd
Your dog might show various signs of skin allergy. Understand these symptoms and take immediate action.