My FCR has been scratching a lot more than normal over the past few weeks. We've checked her for fleas, but can't find any signs. I'm wondering if it's dry skin and thought somebody may be able to recommend a shampoo or something to try.Obviously, if it doesn't get better we'll take her to the vets for a check. Seems to be worse after walks through fields? Can dogs have grass allergies?
thanks for any ideas.

I have the same problem with my Shih Tzu, No sign of fleas at all, now changed her food to James Well Beloved & 2 days ago put her on some cooling tablets I got from the pet shop, though have heard you can use Piriton. She seems to be getting better though it could be wishful thinking. I really feel for her. OH I been told to try aloe vera shampoo on her, tried & tested on another ST. Good Luck. :)

It is harvest mite season at the moment and they are very difficult to see expecially on a dark coloured dog.

Hi,
Looking for harvest mites on a flatcoat is next to mission impossible! However I would agree that it is the time of year when they are most annoyingly active and they do make the dog itch. Try using a good insecticide on the dog. You might see the little orange mites at the joints on the forearm, which they seem to like. Other than that it is also the flea season so once again any good flea preparation should cure that. Another reason which might be worth investigating is a food allergy.

Hi,

Dogs can be allergic to anything, including grass and all types of pollen. As well as food, household cleaners and chemicals, an new and unwashed dog bed .. the list is endless.

If it is dry skin due to the hot weather than you can add a bit more oil to meals. Rose hip oil is supposed to be especially good for dry skin. You can buy it at Pets at Home or use a human rose hip oil supplement. 500 milligrams (usually one capsule) for every 10 kgs (22 lbs apx) of body weight.

Stacey

Thanks for all the replies. I have since noticed tiny red dots where she is scratching, particularly on the underside of her legs. I have treated her today with frontline for fleas,mites and ticks, it says mites should be cleared within 48 hours so we'll see how she is after that. All bedding etc is in the wash! If no better will take to the vets in a few days. We haven't changed her food so I think it's probably mites, I normally find fleas if it is them. Thanks again x

The vet says she is clear of fleas and mites and thinks it is a grass allergy(although she was ok last year) She is on antihistamines for 2 weeks and we'll see how she gets on.