Are you going crazy listening to your dog scratching their ears all night long? Have you about had it with your dog licking their paw nonstop? At your witâs end over your dog biting their own tail?
Compulsive scratching, licking, and chewing behaviors are quite common in dogs and have a variety of causes. They can also be harmful. One of the first signs your dog has a problem might be the development of a âhot spotâ — a red, wet, irritated area that arises from persistent chewing, licking, scratching, or rubbing. Although hot spots, or “acute moist dermatitis,” can occur anywhere on your dogâs body, they are most often found on the head, chest, or hips. Because dogs often incessantly scratch, lick, or bite at an area once it becomes irritated, hot spots can become large and incredibly sore rather quickly.
Are you losing sleep because your furry friend won’t stop scratching? Trust me, I’ve been there too. It’s 2 AM, you’re trying to get some shut-eye, and all you can hear is the scratch, scratch, scratch coming from your dog’s bed. Not only is it disruptive to your sleep, but it’s also a sign that your pup is uncomfortable.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explore why dogs tend to scratch more at night and what you can do about it. As a dog owner myself, I’ve learned that understanding the root causes is the first step toward helping our four-legged friends find relief.
Why Night Time Itching Is More Common
Have you noticed your dog seems to scratch more once the lights go out? You’re not imagining things! Nighttime itching is a common phenomenon in dogs for several reasons
- The house is quieter, making scratching sounds more noticeable
- Dogs have fewer distractions at night
- Skin issues often feel more irritating during rest periods
- Your dog might be more aware of skin discomfort when trying to sleep
As Wag! points out, “it seems that scratching only worsens at nighttime, when the house is very quiet.” This isn’t just annoying for you—it’s miserable for your dog too!
7 Common Causes of Nighttime Itching in Dogs
1. Dry Skin
Dry skin is one of the most frequent culprits behind nighttime itching If you live in a region with low humidity or cold temperatures, your dog’s skin might be suffering Commercial pet foods can also have a dehydrating effect on your dog’s skin and coat.
Signs of dry skin include:
- Flaking
- Redness
- Increased scratching in winter months
- Rough or brittle coat
2. Allergies
Allergies are perhaps the most common reason dogs itch at night. Just like humans, dogs can develop allergic reactions to various triggers, including:
- Environmental allergens: dust mites, pollen, mold, grass
- Food sensitivities: proteins like beef or chicken, wheat, soy, eggs, or milk
- Contact allergies: laundry detergent, fabric softeners, or cleaning products
According to Dog Growth “allergies encompass food sensitivities in addition to cutaneous reactions” making them a complex issue to diagnose and treat.
3. Parasites (Especially Fleas)
Even a single flea can cause intense itching if your dog has a flea allergy. These pesky parasites are most active during the evening and night, which explains why your dog might scratch more during these hours.
Fleas aren’t just annoying—they’re dangerous. As mentioned by Wag!, “They enter your dog’s ears, climb up their nose, and have been known to enter the brain. Your dog could develop anemia and eventually die if it is not treated.”
Other parasites that can cause itching include:
- Ticks
- Mites
- Lice
4. Candida Albicans Infection
Yeast infections caused by Candida overgrowth can lead to intense itching, especially at night. These infections commonly affect the paws, ears, and skin folds.
Dogs with compromised immune systems—whether from medications or underlying illnesses—are more susceptible to yeast infections. The symptoms often worsen at night, making your dog’s itching more noticeable when you’re trying to sleep.
5. Over-Shampooing
Believe it or not, too much bathing can lead to dry, itchy skin. Using human shampoo or washing your dog too frequently disrupts the natural oils that protect their skin.
“Using aggressive shampoos or showering your dog too regularly might upset the pH balance of their skin, causing inflammation,” notes Dog Growth. This can create a cycle of itching that’s particularly bothersome at night.
6. Anxiety and Stress
Dogs, like humans, can develop stress-related behaviors, including excessive scratching. Your dog might scratch more at night due to:
- Separation anxiety
- Changes in routine
- New environments
- Boredom
- Lack of exercise
The PARC Vet explains that “many dogs itch when anxious, bored, frustrated, or merely out of habit, similar to how worried humans may bite their nails.”
7. Medical Conditions
Sometimes nighttime itching indicates an underlying medical issue that requires veterinary attention. These conditions might include:
- Hormonal imbalances (like hypothyroidism)
- Bacterial skin infections
- Autoimmune disorders
- Certain cancers
How to Help Your Itchy Dog (and Reclaim Your Sleep)
Immediate Relief Measures
When your dog is keeping you both up at night with incessant scratching, try these quick solutions:
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Apply a dog-safe anti-itch cream – Cortisone cream can be applied to red, itchy areas, but use cautiously on open wounds as it absorbs quickly.
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Cover the affected area – As Dog Growth suggests, “You can use something to cover the irritated skin… a sock and tape it on if it is on a leg.” This prevents further irritation.
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Use a cone collar – If your dog is causing self-harm through scratching, a cone collar might be necessary to break the itch-scratch cycle.
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Brush before bedtime – Wag! recommends to “brush your dog with a soft bristled brush before going to bed. This will help calm him down and it may also break the itch-scratch cycle.”
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Try a humidifier – If dry air is contributing to skin issues, a humidifier in your bedroom can provide relief.
Long-Term Solutions
For lasting relief, consider these more comprehensive approaches:
1. Dietary Changes
What your dog eats directly impacts their skin health:
- Add omega-3 fatty acids – Fish oil supplements can improve skin condition and reduce inflammation.
- Consider grain-free food – Many dogs have grain sensitivities that manifest as skin issues.
- Add olive oil to food – A teaspoon of olive oil can help with dry skin and coat health.
- Try elimination diets – Work with your vet to identify potential food allergens.
2. Proper Grooming Practices
Adjust your grooming routine to minimize skin irritation:
- Use oatmeal-based shampoos – These are gentler on sensitive skin.
- Reduce bathing frequency – Only bathe when necessary to preserve natural oils.
- Rinse thoroughly – Shampoo residue can cause irritation.
- Avoid hairdryers – Air-drying is gentler on the skin.
3. Parasite Prevention
Keep bugs at bay with these strategies:
- Maintain year-round flea and tick prevention – Even in winter, parasites can survive indoors.
- Treat your home environment – Vacuum regularly and wash bedding in hot water.
- Check for parasites regularly – Comb through your dog’s coat to spot problems early.
4. Environmental Management
Reduce allergen exposure with these tips:
- Wash bedding weekly – Use hypoallergenic detergents.
- Vacuum frequently – Focus on areas where your dog spends time.
- Consider air purifiers – These can remove airborne allergens.
- Wipe paws after walks – This removes allergens before they enter your home.
5. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is less likely to focus on itching:
- Ensure adequate daily exercise – Physical fatigue can help your dog sleep through minor discomfort.
- Provide mental stimulation – Puzzle toys and training sessions prevent boredom-related scratching.
- Establish a bedtime routine – Consistency helps reduce anxiety-related behaviors.
When to See the Vet
While some itching is normal, certain signs indicate it’s time for professional help:
- Scratching that causes hair loss or skin damage
- Red, inflamed, or bleeding skin
- Unusual odors from the skin or ears
- Behavioral changes like irritability or lethargy
- Itching that disrupts sleep for more than a few nights
- Signs of pain when touched
Remember, early intervention often means simpler, less expensive treatment. As the PARC Vet advises, “If your dog’s itching gets worse, or you notice hair loss or skin changes, don’t wait—schedule a vet appointment.”
What Your Vet Might Recommend
Depending on the cause of your dog’s itching, your veterinarian might suggest:
- Allergy testing – To identify specific triggers
- Prescription medications – Including antihistamines, corticosteroids, or immunotherapy
- Medicated shampoos – For bacterial or fungal infections
- Prescription diets – Formulated for dogs with food sensitivities
- Topical treatments – To soothe inflamed skin
- Parasite control – More robust than over-the-counter options
Nighttime itching doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture in your household. With patience, the right approach, and possibly some veterinary guidance, both you and your furry friend can enjoy peaceful, itch-free nights.
Remember that finding the right solution might take some trial and error. What works for one dog might not work for another, so be prepared to adjust your approach as needed.
I’ve been through this journey with my own dogs, and I know it can be frustrating. But trust me, when you finally crack the code and your pup (and you!) can sleep through the night without interruption, all the effort will be worth it.
Have you found a particular remedy that worked wonders for your itchy dog? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
Treatment for Your Dogâs Compulsive Scratching, Licking, and Chewing
Because there are so many reasons why dogs chew or scratch, be sure to check with your veterinarian as soon as you notice a problem. The veterinarian will help figure out the cause of the behavior and determine the best treatment plan. Depending on the cause of your dogâs compulsive behavior, this might include:
- Eliminating parasites. There are a variety of flea and tick products that your veterinarian can recommend. Additionally, if your dogâs biting or chewing problems are caused by fleas, be sure to wash your dogâs bed and vacuum your carpeting and upholstered furniture on a regular basis to reduce the likelihood of re-infestation. You also need to treat any other animals in the household.
- Changing foods. If food allergies are making your dog itch, eliminating potential trigger foods can make a huge difference. What surprises many pet owners is that grains are actually uncommon causes of food allergies â most pets are allergic to animal proteins! Your vet may recommend a special diet if this appears to be the case. The addition of fatty acid supplements to your petâs regular food can also help address dry skin issues and keep your dogâs coat healthy.
- Using medication. Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to treat underlying problems contributing to your dogâs persistent scratching. Additionally, your vet may recommend the use of topical or systemic antibiotics, steroids, or anti-itch products to treat existing hot spots or skin infections.
- Preventing the behavior. Because compulsive behaviors can cause serious damage and affect your dogâs quality of life, itâs important to do your best to stop your dog from chewing, licking, or scratching too much. Some ideas include using bitter sprays to discourage licking, having your dog wear a special collar to prevent access to hot spots, or keeping your dog close by your side when youâre home.
- Addressing anxiety or boredom. In some cases, compulsive biting, chewing, or licking develops in response to fear, stress, or inadequate stimulation. To reduce this likelihood, be sure your dog receives enough exercise, attention, and love. It can also be helpful to train your dog to chew on toys or bones to relieve stress as a replacement for inappropriate chewing or licking behaviors.
Reasons Why Dogs Compulsively Scratch, Lick, or Chew
Dogs scratch, lick, or chew for a wide variety of reasons, ranging from allergies to boredom to parasite infestation:
- Allergies. When dog scratching gets out of hand, it is often the result of allergies to food or environmental triggers, including mold and pollen. Dogs may also develop a skin irritation called contact dermatitis when they encounter substances like pesticides or soap.
- Boredom or anxiety. Just as people with anxiety might bite their nails or twirl their hair, dogs can have physical responses to psychological upset, too. In fact, some dogs develop a condition akin to human obsessive-compulsive disorder. It can manifest itself in scratching, licking, or chewing behaviors that can cause severe damage.
- Dry skin. A variety of factors, including winter weather and fatty acid deficiencies, can cause dry skin in dogs. Your pet may respond to the discomfort by scratching or licking at their skin or fur.
- Hormonal imbalances. If your dogâs body is not producing enough thyroid hormone or putting out too much of the hormone cortisol, superficial skin infections can occur. You may notice bald spots, and your dog may scratch or lick as if bothered by allergies.
- Pain. When trying to determine why your dog is licking or chewing excessively, be sure to consider the possibility that something is making them physically uncomfortable. For instance, if you notice your dog biting their paw repeatedly, they could have a thorn or sharp stone stuck in their foot pad. Compulsive chewing or licking can also be a response to orthopedic problems, including arthritis and hip dysplasia.
- Parasites. Among the most common causes for compulsive dog licking, chewing, or scratching behaviors are fleas, ticks, and mites. Although ticks are often visible to the naked eye, fleas often go unseen until there is a large infestation, and mites are microscopic. So donât assume that your dog isnât suffering from parasites just because you canât see them.
Dog Itchy Skin and Hot Spot Remedy
FAQ
How to stop a dog from scratching at night?
Alleviate anxiousness, if that’s the source of their itching, by distracting them with increased activity, playtime, and interactive toys. If they’re left home alone during the day, try using a crate so they feel more safe and secure in your absence. They may also need prescribed antianxiety medication.
Why do my dog’s allergies get worse at night?
Why does my dog lick and scratch all night?
If your dog is constantly itching, licking, and losing fur, allergies or skin conditions are likely the culprit. Understanding the cause is the first step toward bringing your dog comfort and getting both of you the sleep you deserve. Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mites can trigger intense itching.
Why is my dog scratching so much without fleas?