Are Probiotics Good for Dogs with Itchy Skin (Pruritus)?
· by Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics
Probiotics for Itching Dogs – Prevention and Treatment
Summary
Probiotics can provide effective relief for dogs suffering from itchy skin, also known as pruritus. This condition often arises due to underlying issues such as allergies, imbalanced gut microbiota, or weakened immune function. Probiotics support skin health by improving gut health, reducing systemic inflammation, and boosting the immune system. This article explores the causes of pruritus in dogs, how probiotics can help, and the best probiotic strains for managing this condition. It also provides practical advice and answers to frequently asked questions to help pet owners keep their dogs comfortable and healthy.
Key Takeaways
Gut health and skin health are interconnected: Probiotics improve skin health by restoring balance to the gut microbiome and reducing inflammation.
Specific probiotic strains are effective: Strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bacillus subtilis, and Saccharomyces boulardii are particularly beneficial for managing itchy skin in dogs.
Natural remedies complement probiotics: Dietary changes, antihistamines, and natural treatments like coconut oil can enhance results.
Addressing underlying causes is key: Allergies, nutritional deficiencies, and dysbiosis must be identified and managed.
Parasites: Fleas, mites, or other external parasites can directly irritate the skin.
Symptoms of Pruritus
Signs of pruritus in dogs include:
Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing
Red, inflamed skin
Hair loss in affected areas
Scabs or crusty lesions
Thickened or darkened skin
Foul odour from the skin or ears
How Probiotics Help with Itchy Skin
Modulating the Immune System
Probiotics regulate immune responses, reducing hypersensitivity to allergens. By promoting a balanced gut microbiome, probiotics help prevent overactive immune reactions that lead to itching and inflammation.
Reducing Inflammation
Certain probiotic strains produce anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe irritated skin and support overall immune health. These compounds counteract systemic inflammation often associated with itchy skin.
Strengthening the Gut-Skin Axis
The gut and skin are closely linked through the immune system. Probiotics enhance gut health, which in turn improves skin health by reducing toxin absorption and supporting the body’s natural healing processes. A balanced gut microbiome also reduces the likelihood of yeast or bacterial overgrowth that can worsen itching.
Spore-forming strains with strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Produce enzymes and secondary metabolites that support skin health by reducing harmful bacteria and yeast overgrowth.
Enhance gut barrier integrity, preventing systemic inflammation linked to pruritus.
Complementary Nutritional and Natural Strategies
Foods to Avoid for Dogs with Pruritus
Identifying and eliminating foods that may exacerbate allergies or itching is essential in managing pruritus. Here are common culprits and their effects on dogs with sensitive skin:
High-Allergen Foods
Beef and chicken: Common protein sources that frequently trigger food allergies.
Dairy products: Lactose can irritate sensitive stomachs, and dairy proteins are common allergens.
Eggs: While nutrient-dense, eggs can cause allergic reactions in some dogs.
Soy, wheat and corn: The only plant-based foods in the top 10 allergens for dogs
High-Glycaemic Carbohydrates
White rice and refined grains: These can spike blood sugar levels, potentially feeding yeast overgrowth that contributes to itching.
Corn and wheat: Common fillers in commercial dog foods that may trigger allergies.
Artificial Additives
Preservatives: Chemicals like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin can cause skin irritations.
Artificial colours and flavours: These synthetic ingredients may exacerbate inflammatory responses in allergic dogs.
Sugary and Processed Treats
Sugary snacks: Excess sugar feeds yeast and disrupts gut balance.
Processed treats: High in artificial additives, these can worsen allergic reactions and pruritus.
Foods High in Histamines
Cured meats and fermented products: While probiotics from fermented foods are beneficial, histamine-rich foods can worsen itching in histamine-sensitive dogs.
Fatty and Fried Foods
High-fat diets: Overly fatty foods can trigger inflammation and digestive upset, exacerbating skin issues.
By avoiding these foods, pet owners can reduce triggers and improve their dog’s overall skin health. Always consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist when implementing dietary changes.
Foods to Include
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in algae or flaxseed oil, these reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
Probiotic-rich foods: Dog-safe fermented foods, such as unsweetened kefir (be cautious as dairy can be an allergen for dogs) or sauerkraut, provide additional gut support.
Apple cider vinegar: A diluted solution can help restore skin pH and alleviate itching.
Oatmeal baths: Soothe inflamed and itchy skin naturally.
Aloe vera: Offers cooling relief and mild antifungal properties.
Calendula extract: Known for its soothing and antimicrobial properties, it can be applied as a spray or rinse.
FAQs
Can gut issues cause itching in dogs?
Yes, gut issues like dysbiosis can cause systemic inflammation, leading to skin irritation and itching. Probiotics restore gut balance, helping to alleviate these symptoms.
How do I stop my dog from itching uncontrollably?
Address underlying causes, such as allergies or infections. Probiotics, antihistamines, and natural remedies like coconut oil or oatmeal baths can provide relief. Ensure the dog’s diet is free from allergens and supports skin health.
What deficiency causes itching in dogs?
Deficiencies in essential fatty acids, zinc, or vitamins (such as vitamin E) can lead to dry, itchy skin and compromised skin barrier function.
Can gut bacteria cause itching?
Yes, imbalanced gut bacteria can trigger systemic inflammation, manifesting as itchy skin. Restoring a healthy microbiome with probiotics can reduce this effect.
What is a natural alternative to Apoquel for dogs?
Natural alternatives include probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, quercetin, and calendula. These reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses naturally.
What is the new drug for itching?
Lokivetmab (brand name Cytopoint) is a monoclonal antibody treatment specifically designed to target itching in dogs.
What is the best home remedy for dogs’ itchy skin?
Oatmeal baths, coconut oil, aloe vera, and calendula sprays are effective home remedies. Ensure your dog’s diet includes anti-inflammatory nutrients for additional support.
Can I give my dog antihistamines?
Yes, antihistamines like Benadryl can be given to dogs under veterinary guidance. They can help manage mild allergic reactions but may not address the root cause of itching. Alternatively you can give your dog natural antihistamines which have no known side effects as an alternative to pharmaceutical medications.
Conclusion
Probiotics are a natural and effective solution for managing itchy skin in dogs by addressing underlying gut health issues, reducing inflammation, and supporting the immune system. When combined with dietary changes, natural remedies, and veterinary guidance, probiotics can significantly improve your dog’s comfort and skin health. Choosing the right probiotic strains and integrating them into a comprehensive care plan ensures long-term relief and wellness.
Bonza: Synbiotics for Dogs with Itchy Skin
Bonza Superfoods and Ancient Grains vegan dog food formula includes a clinically researched, spore-forming probiotic, Calsporin®, known for its resilience and efficacy in supporting gut and skin health. Combined with prebiotics and the next-generation postbiotic TruPet, Bonza offers enhanced synbiotic benefits, providing comprehensive support for dogs with itchy skin and promoting overall wellness.
Bonza offers a highly effective natural antihistamine supplement for dog allergies, Bonza Block, that targets the causes of the most common dog allergic responses, including skin irritation – food, environmental and fleas.
Calm allergic responses while soothing irritated, inflamed skin
Support healthy skin barrier function and natural moisture balance
Regulate immune reactions to common allergens without suppressing their immunity
Strengthen resilience against environmental triggers with ongoing use
Stabilise their system against food allergies and sensitivities
Formulated with ingredients clinically proven to target both allergies and skin health at their source, these effective chews deliver powerful relief in a form your dog will readily accept – making consistent daily treatment simple and stress-free.
Because when their scratching stops, your worrying does too.
About Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics
I have had dogs from the day I was born. Much to my Mum's amusement, my Dad bought home Zetta, a beautiful corgi puppy on the day, as his contribution to our new family!
Fast forward to 2018 and Catherine, my wife, and one of our dogs Poppy, were both diagnosed and treated for cancer within months of each other
Diet and its impact on health, cancer particularly, led me down a rabbit hole of discovery.
I consumed information voraciously - on our diets, our dogs' diets and the impact these have not just on health but also the health of our increasingly fragile planet.
I was humbled by the time and expertise given so freely by doctors and vets, canine nutritionists and scientists, academics and agronomists. The more I learned the more I understood there had to be a better way to improve not just our health but also our dogs and the planet's.
The result of my trip down that rabbit hole is Bonza, a plant-based dog food that elevates our dogs' diet beyond simple nutrition to a diet that inspires a healthier everyday life for our dogs and the planet.
I am continually researching the nutritional impact our dogs' diets have on their health and wellbeing and the ingredients and nutrients we should include in, and exclude from, their food to deliver longer, healthier lives.
I am delighted that my trip down the rabbit hole has led to me completing a Diploma in Canine Nutrigenomics and a Diploma in Canine Nutrition being awarded a Distinction for both my coursework and theses!
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