Is My Older Dog’s Itching Caused by Mange or Allergies?

Itching on the belly and frequent licking of the hind paws, without hair loss or broken skin, sound more like allergies or fleas than mange. Environmental allergies, such as pollen, dust mites and grass, often cause belly itching and paw licking, and they can appear or flare at any age. Flea allergy is another very common cause, even if you don't see fleas.

Sarcoptic mange is usually more dramatic, with intense itching, red bumps and crusting on the ear edges, elbows and belly, and often hair loss. Demodectic mange in an older dog usually causes patches of hair loss and isn't very itchy.

At home, check her carefully for fleas and make sure every pet in the home is on a vet-recommended flea preventive. Wiping her paws after walks can help if she's reacting to things outdoors. Since it's been about two weeks, a vet visit is reasonable now, and sooner if it gets worse, since there are effective, safe anti-itch treatments, and redness or odor can mean a yeast or bacterial infection. Read more about itchy skin and the signs of mange.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.