10 Causes of Shih Tzu Itching and Licking [Useful Tips]

Do you find yourself constantly frustrated by your furry friend’s incessant itching and licking? You’re not alone!

These adorable little dogs are unfortunately prone to skin issues, which can lead to discomfort and irritation.

But don’t worry, there are things you can do to help ease their discomfort and keep them feeling their best.

In this short blog post, we’ll explore the common causes of Shih Tzu itching and licking, and provide tips and tricks to help soothe their sensitive skin.

Causes of Shih Tzu Itching and Licking

Here are some common causes of Shih Tzu itching and licking, along with suggested solutions:

1. Fleas and Ticks attack

Shih Tzus may itch and lick due to parasites like fleas and ticks.

Your Shih Tzu’s skin may be infested with fleas, and ticks may latch into their fur.

You can take oral pills, collars, or topical treatments for fleas and ticks to treat this.

These drugs are intended to eliminate fleas and ticks or stop them from attaching to your dog.

Maintaining a clean, flea- and tick-free house and yard is also crucial.

2. Allergies

Numerous items, such as pollen, dust mites, and diet, can trigger allergies.

Itching, licking, and scratching are a few of the many allergy symptoms that might occur.

You might need to alter your Shih Tzu’s food, use hypoallergenic bedding, or administer medicine on a veterinarian’s prescription to address allergies.

You might need to adapt to a prescription diet or a diet with fewer ingredients if you have food allergies.

Your veterinarian might advise allergy testing and treatment for allergies to the environment.

Learn more about foods Shih Tzu can eat and food they can’t eat.

3. Skin Infections

Bacterial or fungal skin infections can cause itching and discomfort in Shih Tzus.

A veterinarian’s prescription for antibiotics or antifungal medicine can be used to treat skin infections that are brought on by bacteria or fungi.

Redness, pimples, or an unpleasant odor could be indications of skin infection in Shih Tzus.

It’s crucial to take your Shih Tzu to the vet for an accurate diagnosis and course of action.

Learn more about Shih Tzu licking their paw.

4. Dry Skin

Shih Tzus may experience dry skin due to inadequate grooming, a lack of moisture, cold temperatures, low humidity levels, or excessive bathing.

Flaking, irritation, and frequent licking are symptoms.

You can use a humidifier or moisturizer to introduce moisture to the air to treat dry skin.

To avoid matting and encourage healthy skin and fur, routinely groom your Shih Tzu with a moisturizing shampoo made specifically for dogs.

Additionally, it’s crucial to make sure your Shih Tzu is eating a nutritious, balanced diet.

5. Anal gland issues

Your Shih Tzu may have problems with their anal glands if they are licking their bottom excessively.

Dogs use the pungent liquid secreted by these glands to mark their territory.

It can hurt and encourage excessive licking when the glands are clogged, diseased, or inflamed.

To aid with normal gland expression, your veterinarian may express the glands or suggest dietary adjustments.

6. Stress or anxiety

Shih Tzus can experience stress or anxiety as a result of a variety of things, including loud noises, schedule disruptions, or separation anxiety.

Excessive licking and chewing might result from these circumstances.

Find and remove any stressors, get lots of exercises and cerebral stimulation, and create a relaxing environment to deal with stress and anxiety.

The management of anxiety may occasionally need the use of medicines.

7. Ringworm

Itching, redness, and circular areas of hair loss are some of the signs of ringworm.

A veterinarian’s prescription antifungal medicine can be used to treat the fungal condition known as ringworm.

It’s crucial to take your Shih Tzu to the vet for an accurate diagnosis and course of action.

8. Hot Spots

Your Shih Tzu’s skin may develop hot spots, which can look like red, wet, and irritated patches.

Veterinary-prescribed antibiotics can be used to treat hot spots, which are brought on by bacterial infections.

It’s crucial to take your Shih Tzu to the vet for an accurate diagnosis and course of action.

9. Ear infection

Shih Tzus’ long, floppy ears make them susceptible to ear infections, this can cause your Shih Tzu may shake their head and scratch at their ears.

You can regularly clean your Shih Tzu’s ears and use ear drops that a veterinarian has suggested to cure ear infections.

A change in diet or supplements may also be suggested by your veterinarian as a way to help avoid recurring ear infections.

10. Behavioral issues

Shih Tzus’ habitual licking and chewing may indicate boredom or attention-seeking behavior.

Excessive licking or chewing, especially on objects that aren’t food, is one of the symptoms.

To deal with behavioral concerns, give your Shih Tzu lots of physical activity and mental stimulation, refocus their attention on a suitable toy or activity, and praise good conduct.

Diagnosis of Shih Tzu Itching and Licking

It can be difficult to diagnose the specific cause of a Shih Tzu’s itching and licking without a proper examination and testing by a veterinarian.

Some common tests for allergies in dogs may include intradermal skin testing, blood testing, or dietary trials.

Your veterinarian may also recommend treatments to help alleviate the symptoms of itching, such as antihistamines, steroids, or medicated shampoos.

Treatment of Shih Tzu Itching and Licking

Some potential treatments for Shih Tzu itching and licking include:

1. Antihistamines: These can be purchased over the counter or prescribed by a vet to reduce itching, inflammation, and other symptoms of allergies.
2. Steroids: Steroids can help decrease inflammation and itching, but they should be used with caution and under veterinary supervision.
3. Medicated shampoos: Medicated shampoos can help relieve itching and other skin problems in some dogs.
4. Dietary changes: Switching to a high-quality, hypoallergenic dog food might help with a food allergy.
5. Omega-3 supplements: Omega-3 supplements might be beneficial for some dogs with itchy skin.
6. Prescriptions: There are prescription drugs available that can help dogs with severe allergies.

If your Shih Tzu is itching and licking excessively, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.

They can help you come up with a personalized treatment plan that addresses the specific needs of your Shih Tzu.

Home Remedies for Shih Tzu Itching and Licking

Shih Tzus are known to suffer from skin allergies that cause itching and inflammation.

While it is recommended to seek professional veterinary advice, here are a few home remedies that may provide temporary relief for a Shih Tzu’s itching and licking:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Dilute raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with equal parts water, put it in a spray bottle, and spray it on your dog’s itchy spot. It may soothe the skin and relieve itching.
2. Oatmeal: Colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and antioxidants properties that can help soothe and relieve dry, itchy skin. Add a cup of finely ground oatmeal to your dog’s bath to help relieve itching.
3. Coconut oil: Coconut oil has antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and soothe itchy skin in dogs. Apply a small amount of coconut oil directly to your dog’s skin, focusing on areas that are particularly itchy.
4. Chamomile tea: Chamomile is a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic herb that is gentle enough to use on inflamed skin. Brew a strong chamomile tea, cool it down, and use a soft cloth to soak the tea into your dog’s itchy spots.

Preventing Shih Tzu Itching and Licking

Here are some common ways to prevent Shih Tzu itching and licking:

1. Regular grooming: Regular grooming, which includes brushing, bathing, and grooming the hair around the eyes and mouth, can help keep the Shih Tzu’s coat clean and free of allergens.
2. A balanced diet: A balanced diet that is tailored to the Shih Tzu’s needs can help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of skin allergies.
3. Parasite prevention: Regular flea and tick prevention, along with regular deworming, can help prevent skin allergies caused by parasites.
4. Avoiding certain foods: Some Shih Tzus may be allergic to certain foods, so it’s important to avoid any food that triggers an allergic reaction.
5. Using hypoallergenic products: Using hypoallergenic grooming products, such as shampoos, conditioners, and skin sprays, can help reduce skin irritation.
6. Keeping the house clean: Keeping the house clean, including vacuuming and washing the Shih Tzu’s bedding and toys, can help eliminate allergens that may cause skin allergies.
7. Providing adequate exercise: Regular exercise can help improve the Shih Tzu’s overall health and reduce stress, which can be a trigger for skin allergies.
8. Regular check-ups with a vet: Regular check-ups with a vet can help monitor the Shih Tzu’s overall health and provide early diagnosis and treatment of skin allergies.
9. Providing mental stimulation: Providing mental stimulation, such as interactive toys and puzzles, can help reduce stress and prevent excessive licking and scratching.

Questions

Why is my Shih Tzu constantly itching and licking themselves?

Shih Tzus are prone to a number of skin conditions, including allergies, fleas, and dry skin, which can cause them to itch and lick themselves.

If your dog is itching and licking excessively, it’s important to take them to the vet to determine the underlying cause and get the appropriate treatment.

Can changing my Shih Tzu diet help with their itching and licking?

In some cases, yes. Allergies to certain ingredients in their food can cause skin irritation and itching, so switching to a hypoallergenic or grain-free diet may help.

However, it’s always best to consult with your vet before making any dietary changes.

How can I prevent my Shih Tzu from itching and licking themselves?

Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help prevent skin irritation and dryness, which can trigger itching and licking behavior.

Additionally, keeping your home clean and free of allergens and fleas can also help.

Are there any topical treatments that can help with a Shih Tzu’s itching and licking?

Yes, there are several over-the-counter topical treatments that can help with itching and inflammation, including hydrocortisone cream, oatmeal shampoos, and medicated sprays.

However, it’s important to check with your vet before using any new products on your dog.

Is it normal for Shih Tzus to lick their paws excessively?

It can be normal for dogs to occasionally lick their paws, but excessive paw licking can be a sign of skin irritation or allergies.

Can stress or anxiety cause a Shih Tzu to itch and lick itself?

Yes, stress and anxiety can cause dogs to exhibit a wide range of behaviors, including excessive itching and licking.

If you suspect that stress or anxiety may be contributing to your dog’s behavior, it’s important to work with your vet or a qualified dog trainer to develop a treatment plan.

Conclusion

If your Shih Tzu is constantly itching and licking, it’s important to investigate the underlying cause.

From allergies to fleas, there are many reasons why your furry friend may be uncomfortable.

Consulting with a veterinarian is always recommended in these cases.

Don’t let your Shih Tzu suffer in silence – by getting to the root of the problem, you can help them feel comfortable and happy in their own skin.