
I heard your dog is scratching up a storm lately.
You're definitely not alone here. Itchy skin is something so many dog parents deal with.
Before you make a trip to the vet, why not give these easy, natural remedies a shot?
They might be just what your dog needs to get some relief from all that itching madness.
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1. Oatmeal Bath

Nothing beats a good soak, especially when it's in oatmeal. This age-old remedy works wonders for dogs too.
Here's how to use oatmeal for itchy dogs:
- Grind plain, unflavored oatmeal into a fine powder
- Mix it with warm water in your tub
- Let your dog soak for 10–15 minutes
- Give them a short rinse with luke-warm water
The oatmeal forms a protective layer on the skin, soothing irritation and reducing inflammation.
It's a soothing soak for itchy pups!
But if you're short on time (or oatmeal), try PetHonesty's Chlorhexidine Shampoo. 🫧
It's packed with oatmeal and other natural ingredients to calm itchy skin fast. Plus, it smells way better and rinses more cleanly than DIY oatmeal goop.
2. Coconut Oil Moisturizer

Coconut oil isn't just for your morning smoothie. It's a natural remedy for doggy skin health too.
You can:
- Apply it directly to your dog's skin, massaging it in gently
- Allow it to absorb as much as possible and reapply as necessary
It's antifungal, antibacterial, and moisturizing. Talk about a triple threat against itching!
For an easy-to-use option, check out Zesty Paws Coconut Oil for Dogs. 🥥
It's 100% organic and comes in a convenient pump bottle. No more greasy hands!
3. Apple Cider Vinegar Spray

Apple cider vinegar is basically kryptonite for itchy skin. You can even make your own anti-itch spray with it.
Here's the formula:
- Mix equal parts water and ACV in a spray bottle and spritz your dog's itchy spots
- Gently massage into the skin and let dry naturally
But heads up: don't use it on open wounds or raw skin.
That'll sting!
If you're not keen on the vinegar smell and are worried about any stinging, try Vet's Best Hot Spot Spray. 🔥
It harnesses the power of ACV along with other natural ingredients for quick itch relief.
4. Chamomile and Green Tea Soak

- Brew up a batch of chamomile or green tea using a few tea bags to 1 quart of water
- Let it cool completely
- Use it as a rinse after your dog's bath, making sure to massage it down to the skin
- Leave the herbal mixture in to do it's work
- Let dry naturally
Want something ready-made that's less work instead?
TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Treatment Rinse combines the soothing power of chamomile with other natural ingredients for maximum itch relief. 🌼
Plus, it leaves a protective barrier behind to stop the itch.
5. Aloe Vera Homemade Skin Gel

Aloe vera isn't just for your sunburns. It can cool and soothe your dog's itchy skin, too.
Just make sure you're using 100% pure aloe gel. The stuff meant for humans often contains additives that can be harmful to dogs.
Using aloe is similar to how you would use it:
- Find 100% pure aloe gel with no additives in case your pup licks it
- Apply the gel in a soft tapping motion over the itchy spot, making sure it's covered fully
- Let the gel dry naturally
- Reapply 2 to 3 times throughout the day
- It's okay to apply more frequently as long as your dog's skin doesn't worsen
Another option that includes ingredients that also prevent future itching and repair the skin is Earthbath Tea Tree Oil & Aloe Vera Hot Spot Relief Spritz. 🌱
It's specially formulated with aloe vera and tea tree oil to hydrate and soothe itchy skin. And the tea tree works to prevent infections.
6. Feeding Anchovies, Salmon, or Sardines

Adding more fish oil to your dog's diet can help improve skin suppleness and ward off the itch.
But it's got to be the right type of fish.
Anchovies, sardines, and salmon are all high in omega-3, the fatty acid that you want for itchy dogs. The omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation from the inside out. Plus, you've got to make sure they're cooked to preserve their nutrients while avoiding any sharp bones.
Let's face it, though.
Many of us don't have the money to afford fresh fish every day for our dogs. And the canned fish have oils, seasonings, and aren't as beneficial as freshly cooked fish.
Try Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Oil, a high-quality option that's easy to add to your dog's food. 🐟
Just a few pumps spread on your dog's daily meals and you're good to go!
7. Baking Soda Paste

You know the popular ingredient that you add to most of your cakes and cookies, baking soda?
This same ingredient can be used to make a home remedy for dog scratching.
Here's how you can put together an anti-itch paste:
- Mix a handful of baking soda with a little water to form a paste
- Apply it to your dog's itchy spots
- Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off
- Reapply as necessary
- Don't let your dog lick it!
This mixture creates a mini-mask for your pup's problem areas. But, don't let your dog eat or lick the baking soda. It can upset their stomach and make them sick.
For something more effective, less messy, and longer-lasting, try Zymox Topical Enzymatic Skin Cream. 😊
It's made with gentle ingredients that are safe if licked after application.
Even better?
The veterinarian-strength pet formula is ideal for skin irritations to the face, paws, and body folds. And it doesn't flake off like baking soda.
The Bottom Line 👈🏻
While these natural remedies can provide relief, persistent itching might signal a bigger issue. If your dog's scratching doesn't improve after a week or two, it's time to consult your vet. They can rule out allergies, parasites, or other underlying conditions.
Here's a quick recap of home remedies for dog scratching that we've covered:
- Oatmeal Bath: Soothes irritation and reduces inflammation.
➡️ Alternative: PetHonesty's Chlorhexidine Shampoo—calms itchy skin with oatmeal and natural ingredients. - Coconut Oil Moisturizer: Antifungal, antibacterial, and moisturizing.
➡️ Alternative: Zesty Paws Coconut Oil for Dogs—100% organic, in a convenient pump bottle. - Apple Cider Vinegar Spray: Natural itch relief.
➡️ Alternative: Vet's Best Hot Spot Spray—combines ACV with other natural ingredients for quick relief. - Chamomile or Green Tea Soak: Anti-inflammatory properties soothe skin.
➡️ Alternative: TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Treatment Rinse—uses tea's soothing power with other ingredients. - Aloe Vera Anti-Itch Gel: Cools and soothes itchy skin.
➡️ Alternative: Earthbath Tea Tree Oil & Aloe Vera Hot Spot Relief Spritz—aloe vera formula for hydration and itch relief. - Added Fish Diet: Reduces inflammation from the inside out.
➡️ Alternative: Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Oil—high-quality, easy-to-administer fish oil supplement. - Baking Soda Paste: DIY itch relief.
➡️ Alternative: Zymox Topical Enzymatic Skin Cream—combines baking soda with other ingredients for potent relief.
Not all of these remedies will work for every dog.
You might need to try a few home remedies and even move on to store-bought products to see lasting results. Plenty of products use many of the same natural ingredients you have at home, but they're easier to apply and less messy.
Now go and conquer that itch!
