Why does my dog scratch until it bleeds? - briefly
Your dog may be scratching until it bleeds due to allergies or parasites like fleas. It's important to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Why does my dog scratch until it bleeds? - in detail
Your dog's excessive scratching, leading to bleeding, can be attributed to several underlying causes. Firstly, parasites such as fleas and mites are common culprits. Flea bites often provoke intense itching, driving dogs to scratch relentlessly. Additionally, mites like Demodex canes or Sarcoptes scabiei can cause mange, resulting in severe skin irritation and excessive scratching.
Another significant factor is allergies. Dogs can be allergic to various substances, including food ingredients, pollen, dust, and certain chemicals. These allergens trigger an immune response, causing the dog's body to release histamines that induce itching. Atopic dermatitis, a common skin condition in dogs, is often linked to environmental allergies and can lead to chronic scratching.
Skin infections also play a role in excessive scratching. Bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus intermedius or yeast infections like Malassezia pachydermatis can cause intense itching, prompting dogs to scratch until the skin breaks and bleeds. These infections can be secondary to other conditions like allergies or parasitic infestations.
Hormonal imbalances, particularly hypothyroidism, can also contribute to excessive scratching. When a dog's thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, it can lead to skin issues and increased itching. Additionally, autoimmune diseases like pemphigus or lupus can cause the immune system to attack healthy skin cells, resulting in severe itching and skin damage.
Lastly, psychological factors such as stress or anxiety can also trigger excessive scratching. Dogs may develop compulsive behaviors, including excessive grooming or scratching, as a coping mechanism for underlying emotional distress.
If your dog is scratching until it bleeds, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian promptly. A thorough examination and diagnostic tests can help identify the root cause of the problem. Treatment may involve parasite control measures, allergy management strategies, antibiotics or antifungal medications for infections, hormone replacement therapy if necessary, or addressing any underlying psychological issues. By understanding the specific cause behind your dog's excessive scratching, appropriate and targeted treatment can be administered to alleviate their discomfort and prevent further skin damage.