8 Ways To Help Your Sheltie Stop Scratching

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you

Shelties are known for their beautiful double coats, but that thick fur can sometimes make allergy-related skin issues harder to spot until the scratching becomes constant. If your Sheltie is dealing with itchy skin, excessive licking, or seasonal allergy symptoms, certain natural ingredients may help support skin health and provide relief. Before making any dietary changes, consult your veterinarian to rule out fleas, infections, or other underlying causes of your dog’s discomfort.

Best Natural Ingredients to Help a Sheltie Stop Itching

1. Give Your Sheltie a High Quality Fish Oil Daily

2. Try Adding Quercetin To Your Sheltie’s Diet

Quercetin is also known as “Nature’s Benadryl.” This ingredient has become very popular in recent years for dogs as it helps suppress inflammation in the body. It’s a bit hard to find in supplement form, but is included in some soft chew formulas. (here’s one on Amazon as well)

3. Try a Colostrum Supplement for Your Sheltie

Found in mother’s milk, bovine colostrum helps support a normal histamine response to help improve allergies. Colostrum contains immunoglobulins (often referred to as antibodies) which help boost the performance of your Sheltie’s immune system. Canine colostrum supplements are a bit hard to find, but are included in some soft chew formulas. (here’s our favorite on Amazon Prime)

4. Add Reishi Mushrooms To Your Sheltie’s Diet

Reishi mushroom contain ganoderic acid, which is a compound that inhibits the release of histamines. Histamines cause allergic reactions in your Sheltie’s body. In addition, this powerhouse ingredient has anti-inflammatory properties which can help relieve itchiness. Reishi supplements for dogs are available on Amazon as well.

5. Try Giving Apple Cider Vinegar to Your Sheltie Topically or As a Dietary Supplement

ACV provides digestive support and relief for allergic reactions. A small amount can be put into your dog’s water bowl, or you can apply it topically. You can also apply a 50% mixture of ACV, and 50% water directly to your dog’s skin in areas that are experience rash or itchiness. If given orally, you can also find apple cider vinegar soft chew supplements for dogs.

6. Try Giving Your Sheltie a Colloidal Oatmeal Bath

A popular remedy for people too, this age-old source of relief can also work for your Sheltie. See our review of our favorite oatmeal shampoos for dogs here.

7. Try Massaging Coconut Oil on Your Sheltie’s Skin (or adding to their diet)

Coconut oil can be applied directly to your dog’s skin. It helps relieve itchiness and also can improve your dog’s skin and coat in general. Many dogs love the taste, which can actually become a bit of a problem if your pup licks it off their skin too quickly! We like the CocoTherapy brand of coconut oil made specifically for dogs.

8. Test if a Probiotic Makes a Difference for Your Sheltie

Scientists are finding many links between our digestive system and many forms of disease. Many pet owners notice a difference in their dog’s allergy symptoms after giving a canine probiotic supplement (make sure to use one made for dogs). Your results may vary, but it’s worth a try.

Many of the above ingredients can be found in this 6-in-1 allergy and itch supplement for dogs, including salmon oil, reishi mushrooms, colostrum, apple cider vinegar, quercetin, and probiotics.

Also available on Amazon Prime 

Helping Your Sheltie Find Lasting Allergy Relief

While there is no single cure for allergies, many Sheltie owners find that combining multiple natural approaches can make a noticeable difference in their dog’s comfort. From omega-3-rich fish oil and probiotics to quercetin, colostrum, and reishi mushrooms, these ingredients may help support skin health and reduce allergy-related itching. With guidance from your veterinarian and a consistent wellness plan, you can help your Sheltie enjoy healthier skin, a beautiful coat, and fewer days spent scratching.

Top 9 Pet Insurance Plans for Shelties (2022)

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you