Can too much protein cause itching in dogs

Can Too Much Protein Make My Dog Itch? (Explained!)

Its often assumed dogs are carnivores and protein is a way of life for them.

Indeed, protein is important for a dog to stay healthy. However, this doesnt mean dogs should be eating excess protein to sustain themselves. There can become a time when things go haywire and the dog starts responding negatively to excess protein.

You may even wonder, can too much protein make my dog itch?

Dogs that eat too much protein will develop kidney problems due to the increase in urea. This causes the kidneys to work harder. When the kidneys are in bad shape, some of the symptoms can include dehydration, itchiness, fatigue, and/or pain.

Its important to control how much protein a dog eats at all times. This is the only way to make sure the dog doesnt develop kidney disease and/or other kidney-related issues.

This article will take a look at some of the reasons why too much protein is bad for dogs.

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Reasons Why Too Much Protein Is Bad For Dogs

1. Kidney Disease

Giving a lot of protein to a dog can cause kidney disease.

This happens because the protein creates urea. This causes the kidneys to go into an overactive state just to keep the body in harmony.

Due to the stress that is put on the kidneys, this can start to take a toll on the dogs body. There will come a point where the dog is going to have kidney-related symptoms and/or kidney disease. It is important to keep tabs on how much protein a dog is eating due to this reason alone.

Giving too much protein to a dog may seem okay but it is not.

You are going to increase the risk of kidney disease significantly with this choice. If you want to make changes look for alternatives that are going to keep the dog safe.

This is the only way to ensure the dog doesnt start exhibiting new symptoms because they are consuming too much protein.

2. Dehydration and Fatigue

A dog that is consuming a lot of protein is going to show different symptoms.

One of the symptoms that tend to pop up a lot has to do with dehydration. The dog isnt going to be drinking enough water to keep up with the protein intake. This creates a situation where the body starts to give out and the dog loses energy.

Some dogs refuse to eat while others start panting a lot without moving.

This is when you will realize it is time to take a step back and change the dogs diet. You dont want to go with a meat-heavy diet when the dog is in this state.

Dogs can start to display signs of not wanting to eat when they are consuming too much protein. This is due to their kidneys being overworked.

If the dog is dehydrated, you will notice.

The goal is to make sure you are fine-tuning what the dog is eating at all times. This includes splitting up the portions and making sure the meals arent protein-centric.

This is possible with all of the options that are available for dogs to eat.

3. Itchiness

This is not a common symptom but it is one that is possible depending on how the kidneys are affected.

In general, a dog is going to start scratching itself more. The reason for this has to do with how the kidney processes excess protein.

It can have a drying effect on the body and that has a lot to do with dehydration.

Its possible for a dog to start developing redness and/or itchy spots on the body because of excess protein intake.

When a dogs body is dehydrated, it can start to get itchy.

The dog will try to rectify this by scratching a lot more. This can cause bleeding, redness, and more. It is essential to take care of this as soon as you can.

Related Questions

1. What Foods Make Dogs Itchy?

Common foods that make dogs itchy include corn, oats, wheat, rice, lamb, and pork. Its best to give these foods in moderation to keep the dog healthy.

2. Can Dogs Be Allergic To Protein?

It is possible for dogs to be allergic to protein. This can include having an adverse reaction to any meat source including pork, lamb, beef, and/or chicken.

Final Thoughts

Can too much protein make my dog itch?

Excess protein can make a dog itch. This has to do with kidney-related issues and the kidney overworking to process the protein.

Its best to cut down on the protein given to your dog to make sure it remains healthy.

Heres more on dogs helping a dog that eats grass, warm shoulders for dogs, feeding lavender to a dog, and getting a dog to forgive you.

The Dangers of High Protein Dog Foods

By Ashley Gallagher, DVM

Choosing what to feed your dog can be an overwhelming decision. Pet food stores are packed with row after row of different brands of food all containing clever marketing slogans to convince you they are the best for your dog. Many of these dog foods boast about containing extremely high levels of protein that claim to satisfy your dogs instinctual need for meat as well as make them healthier and live longer.

Are Dogs Carnivores?

Marketing tactics by some pet food companies have fueled a common misconception among pet owners that dogs are obligate carnivores and require a diet that consists mostly of meat. This is not true. Dogs, like people, are omnivores and do best with a balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Excessive protein consumption is unnecessary for dogs at best and for some dogs with medical conditions can actually be harmful.

Proteins are the building blocks of the body and an absolute necessity for daily function. However, when a dog consumes too much protein in a meal it cannot all be utilized at one time, nor can it be stored for later. The body will then excrete the excess protein through the kidneys and out of the body via urine. Thus the quality of the protein actually becomes more important that than actual amount as a high quality protein is more bioavailable and can be better absorbed by the body.

Another issue is that the meat in these diets acting as the protein source contains other nutrients that you do not want in excessive amounts. For example, when a diet is mostly meat it becomes very difficult to maintain a proper calcium-phosphorus ratio. When this ratio is out of balance disruptions in bone growth or kidney damage can occur. Well formulated dog foods have an appropriate balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to prevent this from happening.

Is Excessive Protein in Dog Food Bad for My Pet?

Protein is a calorie dense nutrient and many of the high protein diets are extremely high in calories and can quickly lead to weight gain. With over 50% of dogs in the U.S. considered overweight or obese, dog owners need to be aware of where those extra calories are hiding. If a dog has kidney or liver issues consuming too much protein can increase the workload on these organs and upset the balance of nutrients leading to exacerbation of disease.

Rather than look for a dog food that contains excessive levels of protein you should find one that is specifically formulated for your dogs lifestyle, life stage, and size. A working sled dog, for example, will have significantly different nutrient and caloric requirements than the average pet dog that ventures outside for a few walks a day and spends the rest of the time lounging. These two dogs should not be fed the same diet.

Puppies, meanwhile, require more protein than adult dogs because their bodies are busy growing. Among breeds of puppies there are different requirements for nutrients as well. For instance large breed puppies like Labrador retrievers need a much different diet than a Yorkie for optimal growth. Feeding large breed puppies something that is too high in protein may make them put on weight too quickly causing abnormal joint development and making them more prone to issues like arthritis in the future.

The safest diets are those that have been developed by pet food companies that invest in scientific research, consult with veterinary nutritionists, and perform feeding trials to develop their diets. This will provide a pet food that is properly balanced without any excess nutrients that are unnecessary and in some cases harmful for your dog.

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Skin Itching in Dogs: 9 Common Causes for Dog Itchy Skin Issues

Do you notice your dog scratching a lot more than usual? Or has he developed sores from constant licking and chewing? Learn how to help relieve dogs with itchy skin issues. Why is my dog itching all of a sudden? Why is my dog itching so much?

Help! My Dog Is Constantly Scratching And Biting Himself

If so, hes probably suffering from itchy and irritated skin or even various skin diseases. This is a common problem that can cause immense distress for a dog, so it shouldnt be ignored. After all, you do not want to end up saying, my dog is itchy and now I am too!

In this article, Ill discuss some of the reasons your dog might have itchy skin, along with some tips for providing dog itch relief. Especially if you find yourself saying, my dog is extremely itchy and now I am too.

What Causes Skin Itching in Dogs?

There are many reasons why you might find your dog with itchy skin. Are you wondering why my dog is constantly scratching and biting himself and losing hair. Below are eight common reasons why your dog is itching but you should also discuss excessive scratching, licking, or chewing with a vet. Especially if you see that your dog scratches its mouth, is losing a lot of hair or has sores.

Dry Dog With Itchy Skin

Dry skin has a variety of potential causes, such as nutritional deficiencies and mild dehydration. Dogs that live in low-humidity environments are also more susceptible.

Its often obvious if a dog has dry skin, as there will be white flakes, cracked skin, and itching. Your dog will also probably scratch whenever hes touched.

Allergic Reactions

Food and skin allergies are common causes of dogs with itchy skin. Unlike humans, who sneeze or get a runny nose during a mild allergic reaction, dogs often suffer from itchy skin.

The surprising thing about a food allergy is that it can develop at any time. A dog thats always been fed the same type of food can suddenly develop an allergic reaction, as its repeated exposure that causes the immune response.

Constant skin itching in dogs can also be caused by environmental triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, and mould. Unlike food allergies, these allergies may cause dog scratching only during specific times of the year.

Fleas

Fleas are a common parasite that loves the warmth of a dogs fur coat and will continuously bite your dogs skin. Aside from causing itching, this can potentially cause allergic reactions.

Just because you cant see fleas doesnt mean they arent there. Fleas spend around 90% of their time away from the animal as they lay eggs around the house, so youll often only notice them once the infection has become severe.

Mites

Mites are another common parasite that can affect a dogs skin. Unlike fleas, they are microscopic so cant be seen by the naked eye. Their effects are often more noticeable, however, as mites cause severe itching, hair loss, sores, and inflamed skin (this is a condition known as mange).

On a related note, ticks may cause a to dog to scratch in a specific area. Make sure you remove both the head and body at the same time. Otherwise, it could cause an infection.

Anxiety or Stress

Dogs often scratch when they are stressed. So, if you have a dog with itchy skin, you might want to consider this as a possibility. This is most common during brief moments of frustration, such as when the dog wants to play or is waiting to go for a walk.

For ways to prevent boredom and relieve anxiety through playtime and exercise, take a look at How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need Each Day? for some great tips and ideas.

Severe anxiety can cause continuous skin itching in dogs, though. This is a form of compulsive behaviour that can lead to red patches or inflamed skin. Its vital that you discuss your dogs anxiety with a vet, as compulsive dog chewing fur can cause severe damage in a relatively short time.

Hormonal Problems

An imbalance in your dogs hormone production can make him more susceptible to skin infections. A drop in thyroid hormone, for example, can lead to skin itching in dogs.

Aside from frequent dog scratching, you may notice changes to the texture or colour of your dog's itchy skin. Hormonal problems can usually be diagnosed with a blood test.

Nutritional Deficiencies in a Dog with Itchy Skin

Your dogs diet can cause chronic itching if its lacking in key nutrients. Deficiencies in zinc, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids, for example, can affect skin health.

Nutritional deficiencies are usually caused by poor-quality dog food. While switching to a nutritionally complete and balanced diet is the best long-term solution, supplementation can also solve the problem.

Medical conditions that cause malabsorption in the gut can also lead to nutritional deficiencies.

Skin Infections

There are a variety of types of skin infections that can cause your dogs constant itching. A yeast infection, for example, often causes scratching and licking around the toes or ears.

Other examples of skin infections include impetigo, which causes blistering, and folliculitis.

Genetic Disorders

Some breeds are more likely to suffer from genetic conditions that can cause scratching. This is often due to generations of inbreeding.

One of the most common examples is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Up to 70% of Cavaliers show signs of a condition called syringomyelia by age six, which affects the spinal cord. It can cause continuous itching due to damage to nerve fibres, ranging from mild skin crawling to more severe burning.

Treatment for Excessive Scratching

Treatment for skin severe itching in dogs depends on whats causing the problem, which is why you should always contact a vet for advice.

The good news is that most causes of dog scratching face raw can be successfully treated once your dog has received the correct diagnosis. There are also many ways you can provide relief at home. Here are some of the most common treatments and natural remedies for itching.

Prescribed Medication

Several types of medications could help with skin scratching. If your dog suffers from allergies, for example, your vet may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids. These can provide quick relief - but dont solve the underlying problem.

Long-term use of some medications can have an adverse effect on your pet's health. So, talk to your vet about alternative treatments, diet changes, and supplements that may limit the prescription medications required to treat your pet.

For dogs with skin bacterial infections, antibiotics or other medication may be required.

Try a Low Allergy Diet

Switching your dog to a different food brand often isnt enough to relieve an allergic reaction. Allergies are caused by a specific ingredient in the food, which may be present in another brand.

Instead, youll need to switch to a limited ingredient food, preferably using a protein that your dog hasnt eaten in the past. Raw diets are a great example of a limited ingredient, low allergen diet. You can select a diet with minimal processing and few nutrient-dense ingredients.

If your dogs scratching doesnt improve on a low allergy diet, he may be allergic to something in his environment. An allergy test can sometimes help determine whats causing the problem, but limiting exposure to allergens like smoke, perfumes, and air fresheners may provide some relief.

Check out Food Allergies in Dogs for more information about how to find the right diet to stop itching and make sure your dog gets a complete and balanced diet.

Remove Parasites

If your dog has fleas, start by giving your pet regular flea dirt treatments. This should eliminate existing fleas and stop the itching.

Flea eggs can survive for months, though, so getting rid of an infestation can take time. Youll need to treat all areas of the home, garage, and car, along with other pets in the house.

Mites are usually treated with an anti-parasitic shampoo. These can be bought from most pet stores, but its a good idea to contact your vet to get the right one. Some dogs may also need medication to fight a mite infestation.

Limit Exposure to Airborne Allergens

Relieving allergies caused by airborne triggers can be tricky. Pollen, dust mites, and mould can lead to continuous scratching but are almost impossible to avoid.

There are a few things you can do to limit your dogs exposure, though. Installing filters in your home, for example, can reduce the number of allergenic particles circulating in the air. Regular vacuuming using a vacuum with a HEPA filter can also provide cleaner air.

Dogs need exercise, so you cant keep them away from all allergens, but its a good idea to stay away from the worst locations. If your dog reacts to mould spores, for example, then avoiding damp woodland areas is important.

Protect Hot Spots

While relieving your dogs itching is the primary goal, sometimes you need to protect areas during the treatment process. This is particularly important if your dog is starting to develop hot spots - patches of skin that are red, painful, and infected.

There are several ways to discourage scratching or biting certain areas. Aside from interrupting your dog whenever he starts to scratch, you can use a special cone collar to make it more difficult to reach with his mouth.

A soothing topical treatment, like Vet's Best Hot Spot Spray, can also be effective at reducing the discomfort of hot spots and aiding in the healing process.

Bathe Your Dog With a Moisturizing Shampoo

Bathing is a great way to remove allergens that are stuck to the skin. Occasional baths can provide relief from airborne triggers and relieve scratching while also getting rid of loose hair and skin.

Products with soothing and moisturizing ingredients like Aloe Vera and coconut oil can be highly effective in treating skin-related issues. Here are a few high-quality dog shampoos and conditioners that are gentle and hydrating:

The problem is that many canine shampoos have a drying effect on the skin. This can lead to flaking and soreness, resulting in more scratching. Instead, use a moisturizing dog shampoo that leaves the skin soft and moist.

Overbathing can cause further dryness; try not to bathe your pet too often.You should also avoid blow drying your dog - especially on high heat. Towel dry the fur and let him shake the remaining water off naturally.

Wipe Your Dogs Paws and Belly After a Walk

A quick way to reduce skin irritation from environmental allergens is to wipe your dogs paws and belly before going inside. Keep a gentle pet wipe on hand, like Earthbath Hypoallergenic Pet Wipes.

This wont remove all allergens but reduces the amount that enters your home. It can also stop your dog from spreading allergens across his skin by scratching.

Alternatively, dog boots and raincoats can prevent allergens from coming into contact with the skin. Some dogs dont enjoy wearing these, however, so you may need to use positive reinforcement training to get your pet to accept clothing.

Supplement Your Dogs Diet with Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Itching caused by inflammatory conditions can sometimes be helped by supplementing omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 has anti-inflammatory properties that can provide significant relief - and may even reduce the need for antihistamines.

The dose required varies depending on a dogs size, diet, and breed. For this reason, you should discuss omega-3 with your vet before giving it to your dog.

To learn more about Omega 3 supplementation, check out 10 Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Your Pets Diet.

Summary

Skin itching in dogs can have a variety of causes. Food allergies and dry skin are two of the most common, but environmental allergies, parasites, and genetic conditions can also cause itching.

While most causes of itching arent serious and can be successfully treated, its important to visit your vet to get the right diagnosis. Treatment varies depending on why your dog is scratching, so its best to avoid extreme home remedy treatments until youre sure of the underlying cause.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common external factors that can cause skin itching in dogs?

External factors like fleas, ticks, mites, and contact with irritants such as certain plants or chemicals can lead to skin itching in dogs.

Can food allergies or sensitivities be a cause of skin itching in dogs?

Yes, food allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in a dog's diet can manifest as skin itching, resulting in symptoms like redness, rashes, or hot spots.

Are environmental allergies a common cause of skin itching in dogs?

Environmental allergies, including pollen, dust mites, and mould spores, can trigger skin itching in dogs. This condition is often referred to as atopic dermatitis.

Can skin infections lead to itching in dogs?

Yes, bacterial or fungal skin infections can cause intense itching in dogs. These infections often result from scratching or licking irritated skin.

Are there underlying medical conditions that may be responsible for skin itching in dogs?

Yes, underlying medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers can contribute to chronic skin itching in dogs.

How can I determine the cause of my dog's skin itching?

To identify the cause of your dog's skin itching, consult with a veterinarian. They can perform tests, including skin scrapings, blood work, and allergy testing, to pinpoint the cause of the allergy.