When your dog is biting at his skin, it is usually a reaction to irritation, such as fleas or possible allergies though sometimes if your dog is suffering from a psychological reason he may bite at his skin.
Fleas and Other Parasites
One of the most common reasons for your dog to bite and scratch at his skin is a flea infestation. Fleas are tiny parasites that bite and feed off your dog’s blood. A flea bite on your dog’s skin will appear as a small, raised red bump and may become larger and inflamed if your dog scratches at the area. If left untreated, a flea infestation can lead to tapeworms if your dog ingests any infested fleas while biting at his skin. In younger or smaller dogs, anemia can occur with heavy infestations. Sensitised individuals may also develop a flea allergy dermatitis, characterized by severe itching, constant licking and scratching, loss of hair, and scab formations.
Allergies
Allergens in the environment can cause your dog to develop dermatitis, which may result as itchy, flaking skin on your dog. Allergies are a common cause of excessive biting and scratching at the skin and usually develop early in your dog’s life. Certain breeds are also known to be more sensitive to allergens, such as Terriers, Setters, Beagles, and Retrievers. Dogs can be allergic to a range of things including pollen, dust, dust mites, trees and certain foods.
Skin Infections
Bacterial infections may occur in your dog if excessive scratching and biting of the skin are left untreated. A flea infestattion or allergic reaction that causes your dog to scratch at his skin may become an open wound due to scratching activity, which is then susceptible to bacterial infection. A bacterial infection will cause your dog to further bite and scratch himself for relief and must be addressed to prevent further complications.
Aches and Pains
Sometimes foreign objects, such as glass or a burr, may become lodged in your dog’s paws or coat causing your dog to bite at the site. A scratch from an object may also irritate your dog’s skin and cause him to bite, scratch, or lick the area. As your dog ages, he may develop arthritis, which will cause him to lick and possibly bite at his joints. Regular aches and pains should always be investigated to determine the cause and prevent additional pain in your dog.
Psychological Reasons
If a medical condition is not suspected, your dog may be licking or biting at his skin for an emotional or psychological reason such as boredom, phobias, anxiety, or stress. If not addressed and corrected, excessive licking and biting of the skin can turn into an obsessive behavior. Your veterinarian, as well as a dog trainer, can help you develop a program to train and correct this type of behavior.