Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 3/4/2006

Question
I have a little cockpoo who is always itching but he does not have fleas, he does most of his scratching in the evening and at night.
Can I give him benadryl for allergys.
Thank you for your ans.
Ann Skinner and Midnight


Answer
Antihistamines like benadryl rarely help dog's itchy skin. If it is only at night, it could be a contact sensitivity to something the dog is laying on. You should have the dog's skin checked by the vet and if it is inflammed, try some cortisone tablets for 2-3 weeks to see if the itching stops.  That would indicate an allergic reaction to something.  If the steroids do not stop the itching then another type of skin problem exists, most likely something like sarcoptic mange.