We all want our furry companions to live their best lives, free from discomfort and irritation. Yet, many dog owners find themselves facing a common and frustrating challenge: their dogs constantly itching and biting their skin. The relentless scratching and gnawing not only worry us but can cause our four-legged friends great distress. If you're seeking a solution that doesn't involve medication and is in tune with a natural, plant-based approach, you've come to the right place.

In this blog, we'll explore four holistic ways to address your dog's itching and skin issues using plant-based whole foods and natural remedies. These methods are not only effective but can also promote your dog's overall well-being without the side effects often associated with medications. So, before reaching for a pharmaceutical fix, consider these natural solutions that may be just what your canine companion needs for lasting relief. Your dog's comfort and happiness are within reach, and it starts with these proven, plant-based strategies.

The Challenge with Traditional Veterinary Care and Itchy Dogs:

Skin-related issues have skyrocketed, accounting for a staggering 40% of all veterinary appointments. This alarming trend has driven some pet owners to contemplate drastic measures due to their dogs' severe skin conditions. Traditional veterinary consultations often result in short-term, quick fixes that may come with undesirable side effects. For instance, Apoquel, a commonly prescribed medication, has been linked to canine cancer. When veterinarians suspect diet-related problems, they often recommend expensive hydrolyzed diets, which contain questionable ingredients such as chicken feathers and sugar, harming long-term canine health. Consider Princess, one of thousands of dogs who endured expensive medication for her itchy skin until her dedicated owner discovered the benefits of an organic plant-based diet.

Understanding the Missing Link - why a dog's healthy gut is so important with itchy dogs. 

A dog's gut health is vital when dealing with intolerances. Probiotics and fresh, organic prebiotics play a pivotal role in ensuring your dog's gut is healthy, thus strengthening their immunity. Studies show that 70% of a dog's immunity is in the gut and that dogs have very similar gut microbiomes to humans. It's worth noting that if a dog is intolerant to a specific protein, a probiotic containing that protein's gelatine casing may exacerbate the issue.

Identifying Underlying Causes of Itchy Skin in Dogs:

Allergies to Animal Proteins:

Intolerances to animal proteins are a significant contributor to the problem. A fresh, organic, plant-based diet is the most effective way to address such food intolerances. It means you will be avoiding all known allegens as well as the chemicals that are found in non-organic meat. 

Intolerances to GM Ingredients:

Non-organic dog food often contains high levels of genetically modified (GM) soya, corn, and wheat. These GM crops, used to make cheap animal feed, lead to intolerances and skin and digestive issues in dogs.

Environmental Allergies:

Environmental factors, such as exposure to grass, pollen, and dust mites, play a major role in canine skin allergies. A strong gut microbiome contributes to a healthier immune response against these allergens.

Poor Gut Microbiome:

A compromised gut microbiome can impair a dog's ability to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Additionally, it affects nutrient absorption and the removal of toxins. 

4 Solutions for Your Itchy Dog:

Let's unveil four effective solutions to relieve your dog's itching and biting woes:

1) Eliminate Animal Proteins:

Transitioning to a plant-based diet, especially an organic one, can be a game-changer for your dog's health if they are struggling with itchy skin. Plants are the ultimate novel protein and there are plenty of nutritionally balanced choices on the market now. 

2) Incorporate Fresh Organic Fruits and Vegetables:

Boost your dog's intake of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables to support beneficial gut bacteria growth, promoting healthier skin. This is the easiest and fastest way to make sure your dog becomes healthy and happy. 

3) Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

Eliminate harsh cleaning chemicals and air fresheners from your home, which can benefit your dog's gut health and help maintain a balanced gut microbiome for healthier skin. Think about what you clean your floor with and if your dog licks their paws after walking on that floor. 

4) Consider Skin-Strengthening Algae Oil:

Algae oil, known for enhancing skin health, is available in Dr. Arielle's product line and in the Mighty Millet and quinoa recipe kit, designed to support a healthy skin barrier.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these solutions offer a fresh perspective on addressing your dog's itchy skin issues. If you've exhausted conventional methods and are looking for alternatives beyond the usual "just feed raw" advice, these straightforward yet highly effective steps are worth a try. If you're eager to take control of your dog's health, explore Dr. Arielle's comprehensive course on canine plant-based nutrition, covering topics from puppies to cancer, and heart health to elderly dogs, to ensure the well-being of your furry friend.