Natural supplements can be highly beneficial as skin soothers for dogs suffering from allergies. They have fewer adverse effects than prescription drugs and greatly help with dog or cat skin allergies. However, they aren’t always as effective as cortisone-type drugs like prednisone.
Have you ever had a dog with itchy skin? If so, you are familiar with how frustrating it is to look for a solution. It may have even crossed your mind to look at a holistic or homeopathic skin soother for dogs just to sort out the problem.
Many supplements can be used as a skin soother for dogs, but it can be hard to know which ones are worth trying.
5 Skin Soothers for Dogs with Itchy Skin
So, how can I soothe my dog’s itchy skin?
Worry no more because your problem will finally be resolved. With these recommendations, you can expect to bid your frustrations goodbye.
Here’s a list of the five best dog supplements for itchy skin!
1. Herbsmith Gentian Relieve Allergies
Herbsmith Rx Gentian Relieve Allergies is a great Eastern herbal formula to try on dogs and cats that have seasonal allergies since it naturally cools the skin.
In order to support regular skin processes, the herbs in this formula reduce heat and balance the body’s defenses.
Herbsmith Rx Gentian Relieve Allergies soothes seasonal allergies in dogs by promoting regular detoxification processes, preserving healthy skin, and maintaining normal histamine levels.
Powder, tablets, and herbal bites are among the forms in which Herbsmith Rx Gentian Relieve Allergies is available. Listed below are the suggested serving sizes for dogs based on form:
Powder
- <30 lbs……….½ tsp. twice a day, or as prescribed
- 30-80 lbs…….1 tsp. twice a day, or as prescribed
- 80-120 lbs…..1 ½ tsp. twice a day, or as prescribed
- >120 lbs……..2 tsp. twice a day, or as prescribed
Tablets
- <10 lbs…….1/2 tablet twice daily, or as prescribed
- 11-30 lbs…..1 tablet twice daily, or as prescribed
- 31-50 lbs…..2 tablets twice daily, or as prescribed
- 51-80 lbs…..3 tablets twice daily, or as prescribed
- >80 lbs……..4 tablets twice daily, or as prescribed
Herbal Bites
- 1 disc per 15 lbs. twice daily
This formula also works wonders for cats with skin allergies.
What makes this our top choice is it follows the TCVM healing principles. This skin soother for dogs targets the root of the imbalance causing the allergy – not just the symptoms.
2. Quercetin
Sometimes referred to as “Nature’s Benadryl” by veterinarians, quercetin is a skin soother for dogs suffering from environmental allergies. This plant-based substance has anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and antioxidant properties.
Use quercetin together with papain and bromelain, enzymes derived from papaya and pineapple respectively, for optimal outcomes. Some tablets and capsules contain quercetin. For a suggested dose for your pet’s unique case, ask your veterinarian.
3. Yucca
Yucca extract is an alternative for dog owners who wish to avoid giving their pet steroid drugs. It’s a wonderful alternative to cortisone as a skin soother for dogs. It’s almost a natural cortisone in plant form.
Yucca is available as a liquid formulation and in capsules. Because of its bitter flavor, be sure to mix the liquid thoroughly into your dog’s food or dilute it with water.
If you’re thinking about giving your dog a yucca supplement, make sure to follow all product instructions and consult with your vet about dose and administration.
4. Fish Oil
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that help lower inflammation, which helps reduce the severity of many allergies. According to the VCA Animal Hospitals website, these fats can also be used to treat skin conditions like seborrhea or seborrheic dermatitis, which happen when the skin’s sebaceous glands create too much oil.
Omega-3s also lessen allergic reactivity to pollen and other typical environmental allergens.
Look for fish oil that has a mild flavor and no odor, ideally produced by a company that does radiation testing. The capsule may be broken open, and the liquid can then be added right to your dog’s wet food. We recommend Vet Classics Salmon Oil Soft Chews.
Make sure the vital fatty acids in your pet’s food are balanced. A fish oil overdose might potentially have adverse effects. Before beginning a supplementation regimen, consult your veterinarian.
5. Digestive Enzymes
Supplemental digestive enzymes are used to address a range of health issues, including itchy skin. We recommend PET | TAO Harmonize GI (Developed by Dr. Smith).
PET | TAO’s Harmonize GI Supplement contains four enzymes to help benefit your pet: lipase, protease, amylase, and cellulase. Enzymes provide more benefits than improving digestion. They also regulate hormones, boost immune function, and reduce inflammation.
What should you do next?
To make your dog feel better, you’ll want to find the root cause of the allergic reaction. For instance, a skin soother for dogs mentioned above may provide comfort from red and itchy skin, but it might not be sufficient as a long-term solution.
All irritant allergens must be completely avoided to maintain a dog’s healthy skin.
Naturally, it is always advisable to set up an appointment with Dr. Smith before beginning any skin soother for dogs and to identify and, if possible, get rid of the underlying source of your dog’s allergies.