If you have a Chihuahua, they are probably the center of your world. When they suddenly begin itching and scratching, you will probably worry until you figure out what the problem is.
There are many reasons why a Chihuahua may scratch and itch. Their discomfort could range from common skin issues like allergies to more severe problems like ringworm or parasites.
If you are curious as to why your Chihuahua is scratching and itching, keep reading to see a list of 5 reasons why this could be happening and some standard solutions to these problems!
Why Do Chihuahuas Itch and Scratch So Much?
There are many different reasons why your Chihuahua may be itching and scratching. However, there is no reason your Chi should be itching and scratching all the time, and this is not good and can be an indicator of many different issues.
The reason for their discomfort can range from minor to more severe issues. The best thing to do if your pup is itching and scratching a lot is to visit the vet to find out what may be causing this problem.
Here is a list of 5 reasons why your Chihuahua is itching and scratching:
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1. Allergies
Are a prevalent reason why Chihuahuas itch and scratch. It can be caused by many factors and can make your pup uncomfortable and sometimes in pain.
There are several common reasons why your Chihuahua may develop allergies:
Food - allergies are typically caused by certain dog food grains and proteins irritating their skin, breathing, or even bodies.
Food allergies can often result in worse symptoms than itching, such as vomiting or diarrhea. One standard indicator of a food allergy is if your Chi consistently scratches at its mouth.
TIP: If your Chihuahua is experiencing a food allergy, you may consider switching the current food they are eating. Chihuahuas, in particular, are very sensitive to food, and an easy switch may be the cure for all of your Chi's itching!
A lot of Chihuahua owners are curious whether their pup has a food allergy or not.
Talking with your vet is always a good idea to see if switching their food should be the first step or if there is another step that should be taken first to ensure your dog's allergies are taken care of.
Chihuahuas are also known for eating all sorts of things they shouldn't.
This can play a massive part in them developing allergies or reactions to the items they eat or inhale when outside!
Seasonal allergies — Can affect the skin or cause a reaction from an inhaled allergy such as pollen.
Seasonal allergies are worse for dogs in the spring and summer months when there is increased pollen, mold, grass, etc.
Inhaled allergies — Inhaling allergens is also very common for many dogs, especially Chihuahuas.
These allergies are caused by exposure to dust, mold, grass, etc.
You may notice your Chihuahua sneezes more so than itches or scratches; this could indicate they have inhaled an allergen affecting them.
TIP: Wiping down your Chihuahuas paws and face after being outside may help eliminate any itching of the feet, inhaling allergens, and spreading allergens to other parts of the body.
2. Common Skin Issues
Chihuahuas are known for their sensitive skin.
There are several skin issues that Chi will often face. Thankfully, many of these issues can be cured.
Here are some of the most common skin issues that Chihuahuas have:
- Hot spots — If your pup is scratching, biting, or licking at their skin consistently, they may develop hot spots which will affect specific areas of the body and can cause painful red areas and infected skin. It is an excellent idea to examine your pup often for blisters, redness, hotspots, and other concerning-looking spots on their body.
- Dry skin is widespread in Chihuahuas and can be caused by several factors. There are including weather changes, allergies, parasites, skin reproduction rate, skin irritation, etc.
- Dandruff — A side effect of dry skin, flakey bits of skin on the dog's fur.
- Eczema is an inflammation that the doThe dog is exposed to mainlymainlyin.
Mainly caused by allergies or exposure to any irritating chemicdog is exposed to.
TIP: Getting your Chihuahua to the vet is best if they have a skin issue.
So that they can be prescribed the necessary medications, creams, shampoos, etc.
To help ease any discomfort, they may be feeling.
3. Health Issues / More Serious Problems
If you notice your Chihuahua itching and scratching consistently but have ruled out the less severe issues above, your pup may have a more serious problem such as an ear infection, parasites, or an underlying health condition.
Your dog's vet can typically treat all severe health issues. However, sometimes itching and scratching is only one problem among many that Chihuahuas can experience as a symptom of a severe health problem. It is best to examine them to see the exact problem.
Here are the more serious issues that may be causing your Chi to scratch and itch:
- Ear infection — you may notice your Chi scratching their ears a lot in particular; this may be a sign of an ear infection, especially if they aren't crossing anywhere else but their ears.
Parasites — Fleas, ticks, lice, etc., can cause your Chihuahua to become very itchy and scratch obsessively. If your pup is specifically scratching or biting at their belly or paws, this is usually an indication they may have some parasite on their body. - Ringworm — Highly spreadable, contagious fungal skin issue that is easily spreadable — Make sure to isolate your dog from other dogs if they develop ringworm!
- Yeast Infection — When moisture and debris become trapped in areas such as the paws or ears, yeast spores can begin growing, which will cause your pup to itch and scratch.
- Folliculitis — Skin issue caused when the hair follicles become inflamed (very common in Chihuahuas with susceptible skin.) When Chihuahuas develop this, their fur will begin to thin or fall out.
- Skin Cancer, Kidney problems, Liver issues, etc. — All of these severe health conditions are typically accompanied by other symptoms than just itching and scratching.
4. Boredom
They may be bored, anxious, or depressed.
Chihuahuas are known to be stressed and anxious. You can calm your pup in several ways, such as calming treats and sprays.
Chihuahuas may also begin scratching when they have nothing better to do.
This is often a problem with Chihuahuas.
Those who have to be left alone for long in their periods; will begin scratching, biting, licking, etc., to entertain themselves.
This can become uncomfortable for the pup, and the dog's owner has developed a habit of licking, biting, scratching, etc. It will generally become an obsessive habit, often causing issues to the dog's skin while also annoying the owner because of the compulsive behavior.
TIP: playing with your Chihuahua often, taking them outside, and giving them entertainment can be critical in ensuring that they don't develop an obsessive habit of licking, biting, etc.
5. Hormones
Hormones are a widespread reason that Chihuahuas will begin itching and scratching.
Female Chihuahuas, in particular, have this issue. They will begin developing dry, itchy skin due to hormone imbalance. Thyroid hormones can also affect Chihuahuas. If they build hypothyroidism, Chi's will frequently start scratching and itching.
These abrupt changes in hormones that result in the skin becoming dry can also cause hot spots, which become incredibly uncomfortable for the dog.
If your Chihuahua is uncomfortable with their hormone changes, they may just be scratching out of general discomfort and not because they are itching. Thankfully a veterinarian can check to see if your Chihuahua's hormones are out of balance and find a fix that will provide your pup more comfort.
How do I Know if my Chihuahua has Fleas?
If your Chihuahua suddenly begins to itch and scratch, fleas are often the reason.
It usually is straightforward to see if your Chihuahua has fleas on its body. You will be able to see black-colored spots throughout the fur — if their skin is darker, you may also not be able to see the fleas.
If your Chihuahua has darker fur or longer fur and it is harder to check for fleas, try taking a comb and pulling the hair apart to look closer at their skin.
TIP: Running a damp, light-colored towel across your pup's coat can also help you see any spots that indicate fleas!
Thankfully, there are many treatments available for Chihuahuas with fleas and parasites. Your vet may prescribe a medication, special shampoo, etc., to keep fleas from invading your pup's fur!
Thankfully, there are many treatments available for Chihuahuas with fleas and parasites. Your vet may prescribe a medication, special shampoo, etc., to keep fleas from invading your pup's fur!
How to Cure my Chihuahuas Itching?
If your Chihuahua is suffering from any of the issues above and has developed a habit of constantly scratching and itching, several solutions can help!
Some of the most common ways to cure a Chihuahua that is scratching and itching badly is to bathe the pup with a special anti-itch shampoo, use particular medication(s), and make use of the many allergy prevention methods offered to itchy dogs!
There are several unique shampoos available for Chihuahuas with dry, itchy skin that include:
- Medicated shampoo — Hydrates the skin and prevents dryness. It can also cure fungal infections and skin allergies.
- Dry skin shampoo — One of the most popular is oatmeal and Aloe shampoos. Both of these will hydrate the skin and provide comfort to the pup!
- Allergy shampoo — These shampoos work great to cleanse the skin and fur by eliminating any allergens attached to the pup.
- Anti-Parasite (Anti Flea & Tick) Shampoo — This shampoo helps prevent flea infestation on your pup. It kills larvae and flea eggs that have developed on your dog's skin. There are a lot of flea & tick shampoos that are all-natural and can treat dandruff too!
There are also many other ways to treat your Chihuahua's itching, especially if they are dealing with allergies in particular! Here are some tips to help eliminate your pup's allergy discomforts:
- Use dog wipes to keep any debris off of their fur and skin.
- Anti-itch lotions, creams, and paw balms can all help keep your pup's skin and paw pads moisturized so that the itching is lessened!
They are designed to keep the skin calm and eliminate pain and inflammation from allergies. - Benadryl is often used to treat allergies in Chihuahuas. It is best to consult with your vet first to see how much of the medication your pup, in particular, should be taking!
- If your Chihuahua is constantly licking its paws, consider using socks or booties on its feet. Not only are these booties adorable, but they will help eliminate any discomfort your pup may be feeling and prevent them from licking obsessively.
TIP: It is essential to determine the cause of your Chihuahuas itching so your pup won't cause more damage to its skin by obsessively licking, biting, and scratching.
How to Cure my Chihuahuas Dry Skin?
Seeing as Chihuahuas' dry skin is one of the most common causes of their obsessive scratching and itching, many owners wonder about the best way to help their pup's skin become moisturized and overall healthier.
Many products (like some of the shampoos mentioned above) can help your Chihuahua's dry skin. Several other methods are special lotions, supplements, dietary changes, or even a humidifier in your home!
Here are some of the most beneficial tips and tricks for reducing itching and maintaining your Chihuahua's healthy skin:
- Supplements — One of the most popular supplements for Chihuahuas is omega-3 fatty acids, and these help the dog's skin and coat health, even preventing dandruff because of its moisturizing benefits.
- Humidifier — Using a humidifier in your home can help moisturize the air and, in return, keep your Chihuahua's skin from drying out. This method can not only benefit your pup but you and anyone else in the house as well!
- Regular Grooming — Regularly brushing and grooming your Chihuahua can help lessen the amounts of dandruff on their skin and fur. Removing dandruff makes your pup less likely to itch and scratch.
