A quality dog shampoo should be free from parabens, sulphates, synthetic fragrances and dyes as these ingredients can exacerbate skin irritations, itching and rashes. Look for a shampoo that contains:
- Natural Ingredients
- 100% Pure and Unadulterated Essential Oils (<1%)
- Certified Organic Plant Extracts
- PH-balanced
No. Using a human shampoo (pH 4.8-5.8 acidic) on your dog can interrupt the dermal acid mantle making it susceptible to fungus, bacteria and yeast which can cause skin irritations and itching. A shampoo specifically formulated for dogs should have a pH of 6.8 to 7.5 (alkaline)
A normal, healthy adult dog should be bathed no more than once a fortnight. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils that protect the skin and can lead to skin irritations and itching.
If your dog itches after exposure to pollens including grass rinse your dog using a sponge and lukewarm water after exposure. For contact dermatitis avoid synthetic grooming products, particularly those containing sulphates, parabens and synthetic fragrances. Look for grooming products that use certified organic and natural ingredients such as aloe vera, pure essential oils and plant extracts. For dietary deficiencies supplementing your dogs food with raw hemp seed oil is ideal as it is rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9.
Common reasons for pruritis (itching) are flea allergies, mites, seasonal allergies (pollens), food allergies, dietary deficiencies and contact dermatitis from synthetic grooming products.