My dog has severe itching. Is it fleas, food, or other allergies?
Poor Duchess sounds very uncomfortable! If she isn't on a flea treatment program such as a monthly spot on treatment, then she certainly could have fleas even if you don't see them. Weekly baths do not provide any protection again fleas. It could also be allergies, but food allergies are actually rare in dogs so it could be environmental allergies or a flea allergy as you suggested. The only way to know for sure is to have her seen by a vet, and I'd recommend taking her today since she sounds so itchy. The vet can diagnose the cause of the itching and the best way to treat it. As for the drugs you mentioned, unfortunately, by law it is illegal for the experts at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to give the dose information for any drug, including OTC drugs, without seeing the animal in person first. That's because doing so requires a veterinary client patient relationship which cannot be achieved via an internet forum. In addition, the experts cannot say for certain if a specific drug is safe for your dog. I can say, do NOT give sudafed to her, that is not safe drug at all for dogs. Good luck with the vet, I hope this helps!
Updated on September 23rd, 2025