1) Visit Your Vet

For a dog with sensitive skin, there can be a wide range of causes. So if you notice your pooch isn’t themselves, a visit to the vet can help you find the cause. 

Just like us, dogs have various skin types and sensitivities. Possible causes of your dog’s discomfort can include:

• Problems with hair follicles, causing a build-up of oil on the dog's coat
• Fleas, skin mites, or other parasites
• Seasonal, food-related or topical allergies
• Dermatitis
• Dysbiosis, or bacterial overgrowth in the gut 

Any of these can lead to dry patches on your pup’s skin or inflamed areas which may become painful ‘hotspots’ - where the fur has been rubbed off in an attempt to itch that scratch!

2) Consider A Diet Change

For many dogs with sensitive skin, food can be the culprit. Some owners find that grains, gluten, corn or dairy are contributing factors to their pooch’s scratchy skin.

If you think your dog just needs a diet adjustment, consult your vet first. Under their supervision, you might then want to start by reducing potentially problematic foods to smaller amounts and see if it helps with the skin condition.

There are even some dog foods that contain calming and soothing ingredients, such as chamomile, that can show beneficial effects too. Your vet may recommend a brand that’s suitable for sensitive tummies, to help your dog feel better from the inside out.

3) Soothing Shampoo

If your vet advises it, some dogs with delicate skin may find baths a soothing experience. 

You'll want to avoid using products that contain harsh chemicals or any drying alcohols, as they may be too intense for your pooch’s sensitive skin. Dog shampoo for sensitive itchy skin will usually include an oatmeal or aloe vera base, as these gentle ingredients won't strip their fur of natural oils or dry out the skin. Instead, they will provide a soothing clean for softer skin. Some pups may also benefit from a medicated shampoo, which can help relieve the redness and discomfort they might be feeling. 

It’s always best to test products first on a small area of skin, to be sure they won’t cause a flare-up for your dog. Likewise, remember to be gentle whilst washing and leave any vigorous scrubbing out of the equation, as your dog may be feeling tender. 

For a final touch, use a hypoallergenic, non-irritating conditioner to smooth and soothe the coat. Be sure to finish off with a thorough rinse, to remove all residue.

4) Remove Unwanted Rubbing 

Sensitive skin and dog collars don’t really mix. Especially if your dog is a little enthusiastic on their daily walks, pulling or chafing themselves on a standard collar or badly fitting harness can exacerbate their skin irritation.

The solution? Finding a harness for dogs with sensitive skin, like our wonderful TrueHarness. Padded for comfort and reduced chafing, the clip-on function and ergonomic design means that a TrueHarness distributes weight evenly across your pup’s body. So instead of creating worry spots or painful sores, it offers a gentle yet secure fit for your dog. This means that even delicate doggos can still enjoy an energetic walk, without excess pulling and rubbing.

5) Try Home Remedies

In between vet visits, home remedies can be a gentle way to help your dog feel a little more comfortable day to day.

Many owners employ the use of essential oils for dog’s sensitive skin. Anecdotally, owners report their dogs find relief with diluted lavender or eucalyptus oils, often being gentler than topical treatments like over-the-counter creams and ointments.  

Another home remedy that is popular for dogs with sensitive skin, or itching in general, is to use a thin layer of coconut oil. Natural virgin coconut oil has antibacterial properties and is said to be very healing for irritated skin, hot spots, abrasions, and cracked paws too. You can rub a little between your palms, and run it over your pet’s fur or gently onto hot spots. Just remember to watch for any excess licking or signs of discomfort.