Goldendoodle Itching, also known as pruritus, is a very common skin problem. Itching is not a disease in itself, but rather a sign of an underlying issue.
The list of causes for Goldendoodle itchy skin is quite long. Some of the more common reasons include allergies, infections, and parasites.
In some instances, a skin problem may not have Goldendoodle itching as one of its early signs but when secondary bacterial or fungal infection sets in, itching can be one of the prominent symptoms. The itching may be confined to one area of the body or it could generalized where it involves a larger area.
Itching, or pruritus, is a vicious cycle! Persistent Goldendoodle scratching and chewing can break down the skin’s natural barrier, making the body surface more vulnerable to allergens and irritants in the environment.
An itchy Goldendoodle can have red areas of skin that are inflamed. Pus may be present when bacterial infection sets in. Severe cases of pruritus can lead to hair loss and scabs. Self-trauma can lead to raw and bleeding skin.
Certain medications may alleviate itching, but if the underlying health issue is not identified and addressed properly, the itching will persist causing affected dogs to constantly scratch and bite at their skin.
Without appropriate medical intervention, itchy skin can adversely affect a Goldendoodle’s health and quality of life.
Did you know? Even something as simple as itchy skin can be the sign of a more severe medical condition that can be expense to treat. Being proactive by investing in pet insurance can help you avoid these huge expenses and ensure your dog always gets the best treatment available. We recommend you get an instant, online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance.
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Why is My Goldendoodle So Itchy?
Goldendoodle Allergies
Certain substances in a Goldendoodle’s immediate environment, both natural and man-made, can trigger allergic reactions in hypersensitive dogs. These substances are called “allergens.”
When a dog is exposed to an allergen, an immune reaction is initiated. The protein molecule in the allergen combines with antibodies that are in the blood and then attaches to a mast cell, a type of cell that is found in many body tissues.
This reaction between the protein molecule (antigen), antibody, and mast cells causes the release of histamines from mast cells. These potent chemicals cause local inflammation which is characterized by redness, itching, and swelling which are classic signs of an allergic reaction.
Common Symptoms of Goldendoodle Allergies
Allergy symptoms in Goldendoodles may affect one or more systems of the body. It could affect the skin, respiratory system, eyes, ears, and digestive system.
- Skin itching could affect a small area of the body (localized) or all over the body (generalized)
- Chewing or biting of the paws
- Obsessive licking
- Coughing, sneezing, and/or wheezing
- Runny discharge from the eyes or nose
- Digestive symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea
- Chronic ear infection
- Skin rashes and hives
- Hair loss
- Itchy rear end
- Chronic flatulence (gassiness)
Types of Allergens
Airborne Allergens
Pollen is a very common allergen. In this case, Goldendoodle scratching tends to increase and worsen during certain seasons of the year.
Mold
Mold is formed from a variety of fungi that can thrive in dark, damp places. Goldendoodles can get exposed to mold when they play or spend some time in places where mold is present such as behind the stairs or in the basement.
Chemicals
Skin rashes tend to form in hypersensitive Goldendoodles after getting into contact with certain chemicals.
The most common chemical allergens are present in soaps, shampoos, and dyes. Chemicals in soap can be extremely irritating to dogs. This is also called “contact dermatitis.”
Food
Goldendoodle itching could also be a result of an allergic reaction to a certain ingredients in pet food.
The most common allergens in pet food include artificial food colors and preservatives, fillers, dairy products, pork, fish, chicken, lamb, beef, soy, or gluten.
Take note that initial reactions may be mild but with continued exposure to the allergen in pet food, there is a risk of a more severe reaction that could be life-threatening.
To identify which pet food ingredient your Goldendoodle may be allergic to, your vet will likely start your dog on an elimination diet.
This is achieved by feeding your Goldendoodle with a meal that consists of only one or two types of foods, usually a protein and carbohydrate source. Common examples include fish and rice or rabbit and potato.
Atopy
One common type of allergy that can be inherited is “atopy.” Also called, “canine atopic dermatitis” or “allergic dermatitis,” affected dogs start to manifest signs of this condition between 1 and 3 years old.
Breed Predisposition
While any dog breed can develop skin allergies and other itchy conditions, many purebred dogs are genetically predisposed to skin problems. These predisposed breeds include both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle.
While intentional mixed-breeds such as Goldendoodles benefit from a slight amount of hybrid vigor, it’s not nearly the same health advantage as unintentional mixed breeds, or mutts, typically enjoy.
To learn which health issues your dog may be predisposed to, Embark offers a simple, mail-in cheek swab kit which tests for over 200 conditions. The results can help you and your veterinarian come up with a prevention or treatment plan as early as possible. This is valuable information for any dog owner!