Scratching

[Ann O'Connor]

My labradoodle Bella scratches herself a lot. She is just 15 weeks old. I have her a bath today and she is still doing it. Is this normal?

[Martha & Steve]

Hi. What did you find out about the dog's scratching? My 8 month old doodle is doing the same thing. He loves swimming and I thought it might be getting wet too much. thanks

[Ann O'Connor]

thanks. I will check with the vet. She has an appointment in a week.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I can tell you that she is too young for this to be allergies. I doubt that the breeder will be much help. I'd see the vet and go from there.
The most likely causes of itching & scratching in a puppy this young are dry skin or mites. You cannot see mites, but your vet may do a skin scraping to check for them. For dry skin, there are dietary additions and/or bathing protocols that can help. But check with the vet first.

[Ann O'Connor]

awhile. I am taking her to the vet next week and am going to ask the breeder if she knows why

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Ann, how long has she been doing this? Have you asked the vet about it?

[Ann O'Connor]

back, legs, sometimes her ears. She also chews herself

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

What areas is Bella scratching? Ears, chin, etc?

[Ann O'Connor]

Her skin does not look very dry. I will try the fish oil and oatmeal shampoo also. Thanks for the tip. I'll ask the vet on her next visit.