Dogs can develop itching due to several reasons. But, is it more itchy in the morning for dogs? Is that a behavior you have been noticing recently? It could be dry skin, allergies, infections, incorrect sleeping habits, food allergies, or habitual behaviors, among others.
Understandably you want to help your pet out and ease any problems they might be experiencing. The post will take you through some of the common reasons why your dogs are particularly itchy in the morning and what you can do about the situation.
Why is Your Dog More Itchy in the Morning?
If your dog is itchy only in the mornings and not during the day, in most cases, the culprit could be bedding. Dog beds are usually made from materials such as foam, cotton, polyester, faux leather, or wool. Your dogs could be allergic to the fabric of the bedding and thus wake up all itchy.
A dog’s sleeping position could also make them itchy in the morning. For example, if a dog sleeps on its sides for an extended period, the side may ‘fall asleep’ due to the pressure exerted. The discomfort or itchiness experienced by the dog is natural due to the lack of circulation on the side.
If you have ruled out the first two possibilities, other reasons for itching could be seasonal or food allergies, skin infections, extremely dry skin, fleas, or dermatitis.
How Can You Help?
Daily Brushing
Brushing is a habit that should be a part of your dog’s routine, irrespective of their itching behavior. The act of brushing helps stimulate your dog’s skin, remove any dead or dry skin, and distribute natural oils evenly. The process can help keep your dog’s coat clean and healthy.
Ensure a Nutrient-Rich Diet
A healthy diet can help with relieving conditions like itching or inflamed skin. Foods that include omega-3 fatty acids like flax, chia seeds, or almonds, oats, salmon, liver could help add the proper nutrition to your dog’s diet.
Pamper Your Dog with Weekly Massages
You can choose to massage your dog on your own or call in professional help. The rubbing motions involved in a massage are beneficial for a dog’s skin. They help with the release of natural oils, which further helps keep dry skin at bay.
Try Oatmeal Baths
If your dog has dry skin or is suffering from any allergies, oatmeal can help soothe the itchy skin. Prepare the bath using unflavored, natural oats. Use a blender to powder the oats, and then sprinkle the mixture into a bathtub filled with warm water.
You can pour the mixture over your dog and gently massage any highly inflamed areas. Wait for about 10 minutes, and then rinse off the mixture using warm water.
Is it more itchy in the morning for dogs? It could be so for the reasons mentioned above. Do not fret. You could start by implementing the points mentioned above in your dog’s routine. If the itching persists, it would be best to pay the vet a visit to identify any underlying medical condition.