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Why is my puppy constantly biting and itching without fleas?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd - miniature | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 15 days old | 18 lbs

Our 18 week old male mini Aussie pup is constantly biting himself as if he has itching or has fleas. No flees, lice, scabs or skin flaking. We use Burt’s Bees wash and conditioner to bathe him. He eats well, pees and poops regularly, naps and sleeps well. Jesse is mostly black with white legs and belly. I’ve never had a pet behave in this manner. Any ideas?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 7th, 2018

This is probably caused by an allergic reaction. first of all make sure you de-flea Jesse regularly every month with a high quality spot on (ex. Advantage) as fleas are by far the most common reason for these reactions. If the fleas are not the problem, it could be an allergic reaction to food or an environmental factor. this is more complicated to treat and will sometimes require medications such as Steroids, anti histamines or cyclosporin in order to stop the allergy.

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