DIY Shampoo and Other Dog Itchy Skin Home Remedies

If your dog has itchy skin, a home remedy may help provide relief using supplies you already have. The right approach depends on what’s causing the itch, so it’s best to consult your veterinarian before attempting any treatment on your own. We’ve included home remedies in this article, like DIY shampoo, that may help.

Why Do Dogs Get Itchy Skin?

There are several reasons a dog might itch excessively. Here are some of the most common:¹

• Allergic reactions: Your dog can have allergic reactions to their food or environmental factors like pollen, dust mites, or mold spores that cause their skin to become irritated.
• Skin parasites: Mites, ticks, and fleas can cause your dog to itch. So can bug bites in general.
• Contact dermatitis: Irritants like laundry detergent or other cleaning products can also provoke a reaction.
• Skin or ear infections: If your dog gets an infection that causes them to itch excessively, fungi or bacteria could be the root cause.

Home Treatments for Itchy, Inflamed Skin

To help your dog feel better, consult your vet about trying one of these home remedies.

DIY dog shampoo

Prep Time: 10 minutes

This DIY doggie oatmeal shampoo helps heal irritated skin, as well as neutralize unpleasant odors and help balance your dog’s skin pH level. This gentle shampoo should also remove dirt and grime, leaving a beautiful, soft, shiny coat.

Ingredients:²

• 1 cup of oatmeal
• ½ cup of baking soda
• 4 cups of warm water

How to make DIY dog shampoo:²

1. Use a food processor or coffee grinder to grind the oatmeal to a flour-like consistency.
2. Then, mix with the baking soda.
3. Add the warm water and gently mix until thoroughly distributed.
4. Wet your dog with warm water first, then work the shampoo into their coat.
5. Once you’ve built up a good lather, let it sit for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

Tea rinse

Chamomile and green tea contain natural anti-inflammatory properties. Either tea can be used to help relieve your dog’s skin irritation. Here’s how to do a tea rinse:³

1. Steep either chamomile or green tea bags.
2. Let the liquid cool completely.
3. Apply to the affected area with a soft cloth.

This method may also be effective for red paws, rashes, or hot spots.

Aloe vera

Natural aloe vera feels good on a sunburn, but it can also relieve itchy skin on your dog. Simply apply the gel directly to the affected area. When choosing an aloe vera gel for your dog, make sure it doesn’t contain alcohol; otherwise, you could make your dog’s symptoms worse.⁴

Other Home Itchy Dog Skin Treatments

In addition to topical treatments, other home options are available that may help your dog. While talking to your vet should be your first step, these natural remedies could help make your dog more comfortable.

Plain yogurt

For dogs, many yeast infections start on the inside and spread to the outside. One way to help reduce the presence of yeast is with the good bacteria found in yogurt cultures. This can improve gut health, support the immune system and reduce inflammation^.5

You can give it to them directly, or mixed with their food. Usually, one teaspoon works for smaller dogs, while larger dogs may need 2 or 3 tablespoons.⁵ Before feeding yogurt to your dog, you may want to talk to your vet about potential risks, especially if your dog has shown signs of allergic reactions to dairy products.

Fish oil

Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which dogs can’t produce on their own. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your dog’s diet can improve their coat and skin health. It also contains an anti-inflammatory compound that can support immune health and overall well-being.⁶ It’s recommended that you speak with your veterinarian before starting any supplement for your dog.

Dog Itchy Skin Home Remedy FAQs

Can I use human shampoo on my dog?

No, you shouldn’t. Human skin has a natural pH balance of 5.5 – 5.6. This is more acidic than a dog’s pH balance, which is closer to the neutral level of 7. Using a human shampoo on your dog would disrupt the natural acidity of their skin, leaving them more vulnerable to infection and parasites.⁷

What essential oils are safe for dogs?

Not all essential oils are safe for dogs. Never use them without consulting your veterinarian first. Some that dogs may tolerate include:⁸

• Chamomile
• Lavender
• Myrrh
• Ginger
• Rosemary

What human medicine can I give my dog for itchy skin?

You shouldn’t give your dog human medicine without consulting with your veterinarian first. For itchy skin, antihistamines could potentially be a safe option, but they may make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about the appropriate dose.⁹

When should I take my dog to the vet for itching?

If you notice hair loss, open wounds, or extremely red or irritated skin, contact your vet immediately.¹

Consider Pet Insurance

Home remedies can help relieve your dog’s itch in the short term, but you should always make sure that you consult your vet. Otherwise, a minor itch can quickly become an expensive irritation.

That’s where a dog insurance policy with MetLife Pet Insurance could help. Our dog insurance policies can help you provide the coverage and care your furry family members deserve, even when they've got an itch that simply won’t go away. Get your free quote today.