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Hello and welcome!
So glad that you are pleased with foundation style training!
Itching can be caused by a variety of reasons:
1) fleas – even if on a preventative I would comb through your dogs coat with a flea comb, making sure to get down to the skin. When you pull out the fur from the comb examine for any live fleas ( brown sesame seed like creatures who crawl really fast and jump VERY far!) or for the presence of “flea dirt” aka flea poop. This appears like coffee grounds. To differentiate between flea dirt and dirt put black specks on a wet paper towel , flea dirt will dissolve into a reddish brown.
2). Examine your dogs coat for any missing patches of fur ( sometimes indicates skin mites) or for the presence of any pimples or circular crusty patches ( bacterial infection). Note if there are any areas in particular that your dog is itching.
3). Contact allergy. Some dogs develop an allergy to certain surfaces or cleaner / detergents. This usually affects mainly the underside of the dog.
4) food allergy. Dogs can be sensitive to certain protein sources or a particular carbohydrate. The food that you switched to uses lamb and potato / sweet potato. If it is a true food allergy it can take 4-8 weeks to show definite improvement.
You can also try a food that does not contain potato such as natures variety Instinct. ( tapioca is used as the carbohydrate source). I would stay away from chicken and try a fish based food or beef.5) seasonal allergies to leaf molds etc.
You can try putting your dog on fish oil, ( or giving 1-2 sardines per day). This is a natural anti- inflammatory and helps reduce itching.
If you see any red or raw areas, bald patches or the dog is very uncomfortable I would suggest making an appointment with your veterinarian.
Antihistamines can be used for seasonal allergies under the guidance of your vet. Dosage is NoT the same as for humans so please get proper dosage instructions from your vet before trying this on your own.
I hope this helps you troubleshoot the itchies!!
Keep us posted.
Happy Training!
Teresa
