Are you looking for an English cream golden retriever itchy skin remedy? As pet owners, we know the importance of keeping our pups comfortable and healthy. And when it comes to our lovable English Goldens, nothing is more frustrating than seeing them suffer from itchy skin.
But worry not, because today we’re diving into a topic that concerns many Golden Retriever owners – finding the best English cream golden retriever itchy skin remedy. This post will explore simple yet effective solutions to help keep them itch-free and happy. So let’s get started!
An Overview of English Cream Golden Retriever Skin
Among the interesting characteristics of an English-cream golden retriever is its skin. While they share some similarities with their American cousins, the skin of English Cream Goldens has unique traits that differentiate it from other breeds.
English Cream Golden Retriever skin is that it’s generally quite resilient. This breed is hardy and can withstand a lot, including outdoor play and activity. However, it’s important to note that this hardiness can sometimes lead to overexertion and injury, so it’s essential always to keep an eye on your dog and give them plenty of breaks.
Regarding dog skin type, English Cream Golden Retrievers generally have sensitive skin. It means they can be more prone to allergies, rashes, and other skin conditions. Moreover, their skin tends to be on the oily side. This is due to the breed’s tendency to produce more natural oils than other breeds. While this can help protect the skin and keep it moisturized, it can also lead to issues like clogged pores and acne. Regular grooming and bathing can help keep these issues under control.
Causes of English Cream Golden Retriever Itchy Skin
Now that we’ve taken a look at the breed’s skin let’s dive into some of the most common causes of English Cream Golden Retriever itchy skin:
👉Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a common skin disease that affects pets, just like humans. It is an inherited condition, which means some breeds, such as English Cream Goldens, are more likely to develop the condition. In dogs, AD is triggered by hypersensitivity to certain environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust, and mold. When the allergen comes into contact with the dog’s skin, it causes an allergic reaction, which leads to itching, redness, and rash. Over time, this scratching and itching can lead to secondary skin infections.
Golden Retrievers with Atopic Dermatitis often show signs of excessive scratching, chewing, biting, or licking their skin. Other signs and symptoms of AD may include the following: redness, inflammation, rash, and skin infections. The itching often worsens during certain times, such as spring and autumn, when environmental allergens are at their highest levels.
👉External Parasites
External parasites are tiny creatures that live on the outer part of your dog’s skin, including the fur and ears. They feed on your dog’s blood and can cause skin problems, including itchiness, rashes, and hair loss. External parasites, including fleas, ticks, lice, and mites, can affect your English Cream Golden Retriever.
- Fleas: These are one of the most common external parasites that can cause itchy skin on your dog. They are small, black, or brown and can quickly jump from one host to another. If your dog has fleas, you might notice him scratching his skin more often than usual, especially around the tail and abdomen. You might also notice flea dirt, like tiny black specks on your dog’s fur.
- Tick: Ticks are oval-shaped and usually found in the ears, neck, and head. If your dog has ticks, you might notice him scratching his ears more often than usual or whining in pain. Ticks can also transmit diseases, so it’s crucial to remove them immediately once you spot them.
- Lice and mites: Lice are tiny insects that feed on your dog’s dead skin cells, while mites are microscopic organisms that burrow under your dog’s skin. These external parasites can cause intense itching and discomfort for your dog.
If your English Cream Golden Retriever has lice or mites, you might notice him scratching his skin more often than usual or patches of hair loss.
👉Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria that invade the skin, causing inflammation and irritation. A variety of factors, including allergies, a weakened immune system, poor nutrition, and environmental factors such as hot, humid weather, can trigger this. In English Cream Golden Retrievers, bacterial infections usually occur on their paws, ears, and skin folds. This can cause the dog to scratch, lick, and bite their skin excessively, leading to further irritation and open wounds.
One of the most common types of bacterial infections in dogs is called Staphylococcus, a type of bacteria commonly found on the skin and in the nose. When a dog’s immune system is weakened or compromised, these bacteria can multiply and cause skin infections. Symptoms of Staphylococcus infections include red, itchy, and swollen skin, hair loss, and pustules or scabs on the skin. It is important to seek veterinary care to properly diagnose and treat a Staphylococcus infection before it becomes more severe.
Other bacterial infections that can cause itchy skin in English Cream Golden Retrievers include Pseudomonas and Proteus. Pseudomonas is commonly found in soil and water and can enter the dog’s body through open wounds or cuts. It can cause skin infections that are difficult to treat, leading to more severe health problems if left untreated. On the other hand, protein is commonly found in the digestive tract and can cause urinary tract infections and skin infections in dogs.
👉Food Allergies
Food allergies occur when a dog’s immune system overreacts to certain proteins found in their food. This can cause symptoms, including a dog’s itchy skin, gastrointestinal issues, and vomiting. English Cream Golden Retrievers are particularly susceptible to food allergies due to their sensitive digestive systems and genetic predisposition to skin problems.
If your furry friend is experiencing itchy skin, redness, or inflammation, it’s important to take them to the vet to determine the cause of their discomfort. Your vet may do a simple blood test to check for food allergies and recommend an elimination diet to pinpoint which foods are causing the allergic reaction. Some common allergens in dog food include chicken, beef, wheat, and soy.
👉Fungal Infections
Fungal infections in dogs are caused by fungi that can invade the skin, ears, or other body parts. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can be easily transmitted through contact with infected animals or contaminated objects. Fungal infections can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, redness, scaling, and hair loss. In severe cases, they can also lead to secondary bacterial infections that require medical intervention.
Fungal infections in dogs can cause itchy skin by triggering an inflammatory response that leads to excessive scratching, biting, and licking. This can further damage the skin, creating a cycle of itchiness that is difficult to break. Fungal infections can also cause hair loss, exposing the skin to the elements and leading to further irritation and discomfort.
Ringworm, yeast infections, and Malassezia dermatitis are three of the most common types of fungal infections in dogs. Ringworm is a highly contagious skin infection that can also be transmitted to humans. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the dog’s body and can cause various symptoms, including itchy skin, smelly ears, and paw licking. Malassezia dermatitis is caused by a type of yeast found on the skin’s surface and can take advantage of an unhealthy skin barrier, promoting inflammation and infection.
👉Foreign Bodies
Foreign bodies are any objects that are not natural to the dog’s fur or skin. These can include stray items like thorns, burrs, and other objects. These objects can become stuck in the fur, causing the dog to scratch at the area incessantly. When the item is removed, it can leave a rash behind in the area.
The presence of these foreign bodies can become a constant source of irritation for your pet. The itching can lead to constant scratching and biting of the affected area, which only worsens the problem. The scratching can lead to wounds and sores on the skin, making matters worse. In some cases, your pet may develop skin infections that need treatment.
👉Hot Spots
Hot spots are skin irritations that appear suddenly and progress quickly. These irritated, red, and oozing sores can quickly spread and become extremely painful, leading to excessive scratching, licking, and biting of the affected area by your dog. They typically appear on the lower back, hips, tail base, and neck and can range in size from small spots to large, severely infected areas.
Among dogs’ most common causes of hot spots are excessive licking and scratching due to allergies, cuts, and wounds. English Cream Golden Retrievers are particularly susceptible to hot spots due to their thick, double coat, which can trap moisture and bacteria, causing skin irritation and itchiness. Additionally, if your dog is prone to swimming or stays outdoors for long periods without drying off, this can also increase the likelihood of hot spots.
These various skin conditions can cause discomfort and irritation in your dog. Identifying the underlying causes and taking steps to treat them is essential.
Diagnosing and Treating English Cream Golden Retriever Itchy Skin
If you suspect your English Cream Golden Retriever is struggling with itchy skin, seeking veterinary attention is essential. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination, including skin scrapes, blood tests, and allergy tests, to determine the cause and severity of the itching. They will also explore the dog’s medical history, lifestyle, and food environment to uncover underlying factors that could be contributing to the excessive itching.
Treatment of Itchy Skin in English Cream Golden Retrievers
Itchy skin treatment in English Cream Goldens will vary based on the underlying cause of the symptoms. It may involve traditional treatment methods like topical creams, oral medications, hypoallergenic diets, or natural remedies such as oatmeal baths, Omega 3 supplements, or coconut oil. If the itching is linked to an allergen, your veterinarian may recommend desensitization, which involves exposing your dog to the allergen in gradually increasing amounts to build immunity.
English Cream Golden Retriever Itchy Skin Remedy
Aside from allergies and parasites, several other factors can cause English Cream Retrievers to experience itchy skin. These include:
🌿Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar made from apples that have been crushed and fermented. It contains acetic acid, which gives it its sour taste and has antibacterial properties. It’s been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy for various ailments, including skin issues in humans and animals.
ACV is particularly helpful for dogs’ itchy skin because it helps to balance the pH levels on the skin’s surface. English Cream Golden Retrievers have delicate skin more prone to infections, allergies, and irritations. ACV’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the skin and promote the growth of good bacteria, which helps restore a healthy skin barrier. Additionally, ACV can help prevent the growth of yeast and parasites that can cause further skin issues.
Before you start using ACV, it’s essential to consult your vet to ensure your pup doesn’t have any underlying conditions that could worsen with the use of ACV. Once you’re cleared to use it, the best way to use ACV is by diluting it with water in a 50:50 ratio. You can apply it to your furry friend’s skin using a spray bottle or gently rub it with a cotton ball on problematic areas. Avoid applying it to open wounds or scratches, which could cause discomfort.
🌿Green Tea Soaks
Green tea contains compounds known as polyphenols, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties make green tea useful in treating various skin conditions, including allergies, infections, and itching. A green tea soak can soothe your dog’s skin, ease the itching sensation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. It is also an affordable and natural alternative to chemical treatments.
Fill a bathtub or sink with lukewarm water and steep several green tea bags for three to five minutes. Once ready, remove the tea bags and let your dog soak in the mixture for at least five minutes. This will allow the skin to absorb the beneficial compounds in the green tea. If you want to spot-treat your dog’s skin, you can steep a tea bag separately and let it cool completely before applying it directly to affected areas. You can perform this soak once a week to help improve your dog’s skin condition.
🌿Chamomile
Chamomile is another natural remedy with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it useful in soothing irritated or inflamed skin. It has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries, and its calming effects are well-documented. Bathing your dog in chamomile tea can help alleviate itchy skin and mild skin irritations.
Steep six chamomile tea bags in hot water for five minutes. Once the tea has cooled, dilute it with water until you can comfortably dip your hand. Soak your dog in the mixture for five to ten minutes, ensuring the affected areas are fully immersed in the tea. You can do this remedy once a week to improve your dog’s skin condition and overall health.
🌿Fish Oil
Fish oil extracted from fatty fish can be a natural solution to this problem. This is because fish oil has high quantities of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that contribute to the healthy skin of Golden Retrievers. Adding fish oil to your pet’s diet will moisturize, and you will see a significant reduction in skin inflammation.
In addition, fish oil also helps to improve the immune system of English Goldens making it easier to fight off infections that may cause skin irritations. It can also help to avoid secondary infection that often occurs when a dog scratches its skin and creates skin lesions. Hence, with the right dosage, fish oil can be an effective prevention measure to help your dog stay healthy and itch-free. However, it is essential to note that you should consult a veterinarian before adding supplements to your pet’s diet.
Moreover, the fatty acids in fish oil help prevent hair from becoming dry and brittle and, instead, stimulate hair growth and give it a shiny, lustrous coat. Aside from the aesthetic appeal of your pet, you can be sure that your dog is healthy both inside and out. Moreover, as fish oil increases the skin’s elasticity, your dog’s fur will be less likely to start to fall out, which is a common symptom for dogs with skin irritation.
🌿Colloidal Oatmeal Baths
Colloidal oatmeal is simply oats that have been finely milled. It is a natural substance known for its skin-soothing properties. When added to water, it creates a milky bath that relieves itchy and irritated skin. The oatmeal bath works by moisturizing the skin and reducing inflammation.
In order to make a colloidal oatmeal bath:
- Grind a cup of oatmeal in a blender or food processor until it turns into a fine powder.
- Fill a tub or basin with warm water and mix in the oatmeal powder until the water turns milky.
- Allow your furry friend to soak in the bath for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse the oatmeal off their coat after the bath to avoid leaving any residue.
Colloidal oatmeal baths offer several benefits for your four-legged friend. These baths relieve itchy, irritated, and dry skin, which can be caused by various factors such as allergies, flea bites, and hot spots. They also help moisturize the skin, improving the overall health of your dog’s coat. Additionally, colloidal oatmeal baths can reduce inflammation and promote healing, making them a great remedy for skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema.
🌿Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is an evergreen succulent plant with thick, fleshy leaves containing a gel-like substance known for its medicinal purposes. When applied topically on your dog’s skin, Aloe Vera works as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing redness and itchiness.
One of the benefits of using Aloe Vera as a skin remedy is that it’s a natural plant. Unlike synthetic components that could harm your dog, Aloe Vera has no harmful side effects. Therefore, it’s safer to treat your English Cream Golden Retriever’s itchy skin than medicine.
For proper usage of Aloe Vera on your dog’s skin, you should ensure that you have the right type of Aloe Vera product since some products have ingredients that may irritate. You can buy a pure product suitable for pets and apply it directly to the affected area of your dog’s skin. Gently massage the Aloe Vera gel into the skin until it’s absorbed. You may also find an Aloe Vera spray that effectively cleans your dog’s skin. Additionally, you can use this spray to stimulate hair growth.
🌿Baking Soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a natural and inexpensive remedy that can help relieve itchy skin in English Cream Golden Retrievers. It works by neutralizing the skin’s pH level, which helps to soothe and calm the irritation. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation and redness. When applied topically, it can help to reduce itching, swelling, and inflammation in the affected areas.
In order to use baking soda on your dog’s itchy skin, mix it with water until it forms a paste. Then, apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for about 10 minutes before rinsing it with warm water. It is important to note that you should not use baking soda on broken skin or open wounds, as it can cause irritation. If your dog’s itchy skin is severe or you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, consult your veterinarian.
Aside from relieving itchy skin, baking soda has other benefits for English Cream Golden Retrievers. For example, it can help to deodorize their coat and neutralize odors. It is also a great natural cleaning agent you can use around your home to clean and deodorize various surfaces, such as your dog’s bed.
These are just a few of the English cream golden retriever itchy skin remedy that can help to alleviate your dog’s discomfort. As always, it is important to consult your veterinarian before using any of these remedies, as they can help you determine the course of action for your pup. Suppose your problem persists after trying some of these natural remedies. In that case, it’s important to visit a professional as soon as possible to identify and treat the underlying cause of your dog’s itchy skin.
Nutritional Tips for a Healthy Coat and Skin
Here are some nutritional tips to help you maintain a healthy coat and skin for your English cream golden retriever and keep them itch-free.
1: Good Fats in Moderation
English cream golden retrievers need healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 to help reduce inflammation and promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. So, it is recommended that you check the ingredients listed for your dog’s food and treats and choose the ones that have healthy fats in moderation.
2: Protein-Rich Diet
The good quality protein in your dog’s food is the key to a healthy coat and skin. Try to feed your English-cream golden retriever with meat and fish with high protein levels and low fillers. It ensures they get all the amino acids needed to maintain healthy skin and a beautiful coat.
3: Hydration is Key
It is very important to keep your dog hydrated to maintain healthy skin and coat. You can keep a bowl of fresh water at home, provide ice cubes, or add some water to their dry food. Staying hydrated will keep your furry friend’s coat and skin moisturized and healthy.
4: Avoid Grain-Based Foods
Grain-based foods are low in essential nutrients and often contain fillers that can cause your English cream golden retriever to suffer from itchy skin. Instead, opt for high-quality dog food with grain-free options with the appropriate nutrition level.
5: Supplement Your Dog’s Diet
Sometimes, a healthy diet might not be sufficient to keep your dog’s itch-free. In such a case, adding dog-friendly supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E or C, and other antioxidants may be necessary. Always check with your vet before changing your dog’s diet.
Keep in mind that a healthy diet and proper nutrition will go a long way in promoting overall canine health and happiness. Start with these basic tips and work towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I moisturize my English Cream Golden Retriever skin?
English Cream Golden Retrievers have sensitive skin that requires special care. You can use a moisturizer specially formulated for dogs to keep their skin moisturized. You can apply it topically on your dog’s skin or mix it with their food. Look for ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera, which soothe and moisturize the skin. Consult your veterinarian before using any product on your dog’s skin.
What are English Cream retrievers most allergic to?
Like all dogs, English Goldens can be allergic to certain foods, pollen, dust, and fleas. However, they are most commonly allergic to grains, chicken, and beef. So, if your English Cream Golden Retriever shows signs of allergies, like scratching, itching, and redness, consult your veterinarian and consider switching to a grain-free diet.
Are English cream golden retrievers hypoallergenic?
No, they are not. Although they may shed less than other breeds, they still shed. They also produce dander, which is the primary cause of pet allergies. So, if you or someone in your family has pet allergies, an English Cream Golden Retriever may not be your best choice.
How often should you bathe an English Cream golden retriever?
English Cream Golden Retrievers have a water-resistant coat that protects them from the cold and wet. Overbathing can damage their coat and dry out their skin. So, how often should you bathe them? It depends on their activity level and their environment. If your dog loves to play outside or swim, you may need to bathe them more often. On average, you can bathe your English Cream Golden Retriever once every three months.
Is chicken bad for English Cream Golden Retrievers?
Chicken is not bad for English Cream Retriever, but some dogs may be allergic to it. Also, chicken is a common ingredient in most dog foods, so choosing a high-quality dog food that uses real chicken or chicken meals as its primary protein source is essential. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which can cause allergies and digestive problems.
Final Words
Taking care of an English Cream Golden Retriever itchy skin can be challenging, but with the right remedy, you can ensure your furry companion is happy and healthy. The key is to identify the underlying cause of the itching and address it accordingly. Whether it’s allergies, parasites, or something else, many natural and effective remedies can soothe your pup’s discomfort and promote healing.
Check the above tips and provide your English Cream Golden Retriever with the best care. Consult your vet for any questions or concerns about their skin health. You can keep your pup’s skin looking and feeling great with a proper diet, ample hydration, regular grooming, and regular vet visits.