If your dog is panting heavily and constantly scratching or biting at their skin, it’s more than just annoying — it could signal an underlying health issue. These symptoms may seem unrelated, but together they often point to problems that need prompt attention.
We outline the common causes of excessive panting and itching in dogs, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Excessive Panting and Itching — Why It Happens
Excessive panting and itching can result from allergic reactions, skin infections, stress, or hormonal imbalances. Dogs may pant due to heat or pain, while itching can stem from fleas, food allergies, or environmental triggers.
When these symptoms occur together, it may suggest a systemic issue like Cushing’s disease or a severe allergic response. It’s important to observe the full picture to catch potentially serious conditions early.
Dog Excessive Panting and Itching: Common Causes
Allergies (Environmental or Food)
Allergies are one of the most common causes of itching in dogs.
Whether it’s from pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, allergies can make your dog scratch, chew, and lick excessively.
Panting may increase during allergic flare-ups due to discomfort, anxiety, or skin inflammation.
You may also notice red skin, hair loss, or ear infections accompanying the symptoms.
Fleas and Parasites
Fleas are a leading cause of itching, and just a few bites can trigger intense scratching and skin irritation.
Panting may result from the stress and discomfort of constant itching or from a secondary skin infection.
If your dog is sensitive to flea saliva (flea allergy dermatitis), symptoms can become severe quickly.
Mites and lice can also cause similar itching and secondary stress-related panting.
Read more: Dog panting heavily and not eating (What could be triggering it?)
Skin Infections (Bacterial or Fungal)
Infections like hot spots, yeast overgrowth, or bacterial dermatitis can lead to both itching and pain.
The irritation can be so intense that dogs pant out of distress or due to inflammation.
These infections often occur secondary to allergies or injuries and may give off a foul odor.
Redness, oozing, and hair loss are common signs that infection is present.
Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s disease leads to overproduction of cortisol, and two hallmark symptoms are excessive panting and itching.
It often causes thinning skin, hair loss, and a pot-bellied appearance.
Dogs may also show increased thirst, urination, and appetite.
Though chronic, this condition is manageable with proper diagnosis and treatment.
Anxiety or Stress
Dogs experiencing chronic anxiety may pant as a nervous response and develop compulsive behaviors like scratching or licking.
Environmental changes, separation anxiety, or trauma can trigger these symptoms.
Itching may not always have a physical cause but can stem from emotional distress, much like stress-induced behaviors in humans.
A vet or canine behaviorist can help identify whether this is the root cause.
Medication Side Effects
Some medications, especially corticosteroids or those used to treat inflammation, can cause both panting and skin sensitivity.
These side effects may be temporary, but should always be reported to your vet.
In some cases, adjusting the dosage or switching medications can reduce these symptoms significantly.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Itching Excessively
First, check your dog’s skin for signs of fleas, redness, bumps, or hotspots. A flea comb and close inspection of problem areas can be revealing.
Bathe your dog with a gentle, vet-approved shampoo to remove allergens and soothe irritated skin. Avoid overbathing, which can dry the skin further.
Ensure your dog is in a cool, calm environment. Reduce stress by offering a quiet space, regular routines, and gentle handling.
Use prescribed flea preventatives and consult your vet about allergy testing or dietary adjustments.
Track the patterns. When and where the symptoms occur can offer critical clues to your veterinarian.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should see your vet if:
Itching leads to open wounds or hair loss
Panting persists even at rest or in cool environments
Your dog seems lethargic, irritable, or uncomfortable
There’s a foul odor or discharge from the skin
You notice changes in thirst, urination, or appetite
Excessive panting and itching, when ignored, can spiral into more serious infections or indicate internal conditions like Cushing’s disease.
A veterinary exam and testing can provide both diagnosis and relief.
Read more: Dog Panting Excessively (What does it mean?)
Key Takeaway
When your dog is panting and itching excessively, it’s usually more than just seasonal discomfort.
These signs often indicate an underlying health issue ranging from allergies to hormonal imbalances.
Stay alert to behavioral changes and don’t hesitate to get veterinary help if the symptoms persist or worsen.
With early care, your dog can return to a more comfortable, itch-free life.