Your dog might feel itchy after his/her grooming session, but that is okay and can be expected. Grooming also poses a risk of skin irritation, especially to dogs with sensitive skin. Scratches and itching beyond the standard limit may cause skin problems, loss of hair, microbial infections, and production of too much heat on the affected areas- or hot spots. It would be helpful for a dog owner to understand how to prevent skin discomfort in their dog by grooming them and taking care of their skin after the process. The following are some of the most recommended methods that you can use to help a dog that is itching after being groomed.
Try a Soothing Shampoo or Conditioner
Using mild shampoo or conditioner after grooming is one of the most effective ways of avoiding itchiness. Choose products with natural ingredients that help soothe the skin, such as oatmeal, aloe, shea butter, or coconut oil. This is a very general rule, as you should ideally avoid using any products that contain dyes, perfumes, or any other chemicals that can harm the fur. While giving your dog a bath after grooming, the water should be lukewarm, not hot. Hot water should be avoided, especially by those with irritated skin, since it can worsen the condition. Make sure all traces of soap and conditioner are washed out from the coat, because leaving a residue behind causes more itchiness.
Apply a Hydrocortisone Spray
Hydrocortisone sprays and other anti-itch remedies formulated for dog skin can quickly help soothe your pup’s itchy skin. Hydrocortisone is employed in the management of pruritus due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-irritation effects. As with any hydrocortisone product, it is essential to always heed the label instructions and precautions. Use only on the spots where your dog is itching more than usual, such as the base of the tail or the belly. Hydrocortisone should not be applied on large body areas or for more than a week without first consulting with your vet. Long-term usage could result in skin problems or inflammation.
Use Soothing Natural Oils
Coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil can be used on the skin as they help moisturize the skin and relieve the itching that is associated with dry skin. Apply a small quantity in your palms and swirl it around to warm the oil before applying it on your dog’s skin. Pay special attention to the areas that are obviously red before lightly rubbing the lotion all over the body. The warming action is also calming, and it aids in better penetration of the nutrients of the oil. It is essential that you supervise your dog when using oils to avoid skin problems or stop the use of oils if your dog has an adverse reaction. Retrace your step and only apply or rub the ointment again once the skin has regenerated.
Administer Oral Omega-3 Supplements
There are times when itching and skin irritation are manifestations of a lack or an excess of nutrients in the body. Omega-3s also have the primary function of decreasing inflammation and enhancing skin and coat quality. They can assist in controlling excessive itching from the inside. If omega-3 supplements are given on a daily basis, high-quality fish, krill, or algae-based supplements for dogs can decrease post-grooming inflammation. Be very careful when choosing a supplement and its dosage; select the one that is designed for dogs and their correct size. It’s always wise to consult your vet before using any new supplements for your pet.
Spray Calming And Anti-Itch Solution
There are readily available anti-itch and skin-calming sprays for dogs that may be useful when the creams have to be applied directly to the affected area. Natural ingredients such as pramoxine, lidocaine, hydrocortisone, oat extract, aloe vera, witch hazel, peppermint oil, and tea tree oil should be present. Don’t use products that contain chemicals or strong fragrances, such as perfumes that irritate the skin. It is recommended to adhere to all the instructions on the label and apply a fine, mist-like layer of the medication to the affected skin regions no more than four times a day. Avoid this remedy if you have sensitive skin or if the symptoms worsen, or use it for not more than one week. These sprays provide instant itch relief and are formulated to work on the skin to combat inflammation.
Conclusion
Occasional itching after grooming is expected, but if the pet continues to scratch or become irritated after this, it is best to consult your vet. The solutions discussed in this article, such as gentle shampoos, special sprays that help stop the itch, and oils and balms that help soothe the skin, alongside omega-3 supplements, can be helpful if applied correctly. It is always important to pay attention to all the information written on the product’s packaging or any accompanying instructions. If the itching becomes more protracted over a few days or results in observable skin inflammation, then you should take your pet to the veterinarian. However, once groomed, your dog will be as comfortable as new, and gentle care will be all that is needed to restore him/her.
