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Facial Rubbing or Scratching in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 07.02.2026

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Facial rubbing or scratching in dogs is a behavior in which the dog works its face with its paws or rubs it on furniture, the floor, or other surfaces. This can indicate an underlying problem ranging from harmless to serious health conditions.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Facial rubbing or scratching in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common causes include skin irritations, allergies, parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. infestations, foreign body in the eye, toothache, or ear problems. These problems can lead to severe itching or discomfort, causing the dog to rub or scratch its face.

Allergies are one of the main causes of facial itching. Dogs can be allergic to many substances, including pollen, house dust mites, certain foods, or chemical substances in grooming products. These allergens lead to a reaction of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., which often manifests as itching and inflammations.

Parasites such as fleas or mites can also cause severe itching. Fleas often leave bites that are extremely itchy, while mites, such as those that cause mange, live in the skin and can cause an even stronger reaction.

Toothache or dental problems, such as gingivitis or decayed teeth, are other possible causes. The pain in the mouth can cause the dog to try to find relief by rubbing its face. The same applies to ear inflammations, where the dog often shakes its head and rubs its face to relieve the itching in the ear.

Sometimes psychologicalPsychological refers to anything related to the mind or behavior. In veterinary medicine, this can include the study of animal behavior, including stress responses and behavioral disorders. factors such as stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. or boredom can also cause a dog to rub its face. This often occurs in conjunction with other behavioral changes such as excessive barking or destructiveDestruction means "demolition." In medicine, it refers to the destruction of cells, tissues, organs, or body parts. The growth of malignant Tumors is also usually accompanied by destruction of the surrounding tissue. behavior.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Redness or inflammation of the facial skin: This may indicate that the dog has developed irritations or even infections from rubbing or scratching.
Frequent Head shaking: A sign that is often associated with ear problems or itching in the head area.
Increased hair loss in the face: This can be caused by constant rubbing or scratching and is an indicationIndication refers to a valid reason or rationale for using a specific treatment, medication, or medical procedure. It is based on the diagnosis and the patient's clinical condition. of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. irritation.
Swelling in the face: Could indicate allergic reactions or Abszesse.
Behavioral changes: The dog may appear restless, stressed, or withdrawn.
Odor from the mouth or ears: An indicationIndication refers to a valid reason or rationale for using a specific treatment, medication, or medical procedure. It is based on the diagnosis and the patient's clinical condition. of dental problems or ear Entzündungen.
Loss of appetite or difficulty chewing: Could indicate dental problems or Schmerzen in the mouth area.

When to visit the vet?

A visit to the veterinarian is absolutely necessary if the facial rubbing or scratching is persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, severe hair loss, or behavioral changes. Even if the dog shows signs of pain or discomfort, you should not hesitate to seek professional help.

In particular, if there are signs of infections, such as purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness. discharge from the eyes or ears, or if a foreign body in the eye is suspected, an immediate visit to the veterinarian is necessary to avoid serious complications.

If you are unsure whether your dog’s behavior is normal or not, it is always better to be on the safe side and consult a veterinarian. In acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. conditions, a quick diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment can be crucial to ensure the dog’s well-being.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

It is important for the pet owner to observe the dog’s behavior closely and note all accompanying symptoms in order to provide the veterinarian with a complete picture. This can be helpful in identifying the cause of the problem more quickly.

The veterinarian will likely begin with a thorough physical examination to determine obvious signs of skin irritations, infections, or injuries. In addition, the animal can be examined for parasites such as fleas or mites.

If allergies are suspected, the veterinarian may perform blood tests or skin tests to identify specific allergens. Ear problems are often examined using an otoscopeAn otoscope is a medical instrument used to examine the external auditory canal and the eardrum. Otoscopy is a standard procedure in veterinary medicine for the diagnosis of ear diseases in dogs and cats. to check the ear canal and eardrum for abnormalities.

If dental problems are suspected, a dental examination or even X-rays may be necessary to determine the exact cause of the pain. In some cases, further tests such as biopsies or culture tests may also be performed to rule out infections or other diseases.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

As a first measure, the pet owner should try to prevent the dog from rubbing or scratching its face excessively to avoid further irritation or injury. An Elizabethan collar can be used to prevent the dog from getting to its face with its paws.

If an allergic reaction is suspected, a temporary change in diet or the avoidance of suspicious environmental factors could help alleviate the symptoms until an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. can be made.

Cleaning the eyes and ears with a product recommended by the veterinarian can help remove dirt and potential irritants, thus reducing the itching. However, this should be done carefully and only after consulting with a veterinarian to avoid causing further irritations.

It is important to ensure that the dog is sufficiently occupied and mentally stimulated to minimize stress-related rubbing or scratching. Regular walks, mental challenges, and interactive toys can help reduce boredom and stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being..

In the case of parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. infestation, immediate treatment with a suitable antiparasitic agent should be carried out to eliminate the cause of the itching. It is important to choose the right agent that specifically targets the identified parasites.

In the case of toothache, it can help to offer the dog soft food and regularly care for the teeth to prevent further problems. However, a veterinarian should be consulted for severe pain to initiate the necessary therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..

Outlook on current research

Facial rubbing or scratching in dogs is a commonly observed behavior that is often dismissed as normal behavior. However, it can indicate serious health problems that require veterinary examination. Studies have shown that dogs that frequently rub their faces may suffer from skin irritations, allergies, or parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infections. Recent research is trying to better understand the exact triggers for this behavior and develop effective treatment methods.

A recent study examined the role of environmental allergens in dogs that show excessive scratching face. The researchers found that certain types of pollen and house dust mites can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive dogs, leading to itching and rubbing. This has led to the development of new diagnostic tests that veterinarians can now use to identify the specific allergens that are causing problems in a dog.

Another area of research deals with the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. for skin problems in certain dog breeds. Scientists have found evidence that some breeds are genetically more susceptible to skin diseases that can lead to scratching face. These findings could help develop preventive strategies in the future and improve breeding programs to reduce the risk of such problems.

The role of nutrition and malnutrition is also being investigated, as some studies indicate that certain nutrient deficiencies can affect the skin condition of dogs and lead to itching. Researchers are working to determine the exact nutritional requirements for dogs that are necessary for healthy skin and coat. This research could lead to new feed formulations that reduce the risk of skin problems and related symptoms such as scratching face.

In addition, the effect of stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. and behavioral factors on facial rubbing or scratching is being investigated. Researchers have found that stressed or under-occupied dogs are more likely to show behavioral problems that result in physical symptoms such as scratching face. Studies to improve the well-being of dogs through increased exercise, mental stimulation, and stress-reducing measures are underway to reduce the occurrence of such symptoms.

The development of new therapeutic approaches to treat facial itching in dogs is also an important research goal. Veterinarians are testing new drugs and topicalTopical refers to the direct application of medications or treatments to the skin or mucous membranes for a local effect, without being absorbed into the body. treatments specifically aimed at reducing itching and inflammations without causing serious side effects. The results of these studies could lead to better treatment options for affected dogs and significantly improve their quality of life.

To determine the causes and optimal treatment strategies for scratching face, imaging techniques such as skin biopsies and allergic reaction tests are also being used more frequently. These methods allow veterinarians to make a more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and develop personalized treatment plans that are specifically tailored to the needs of each individual dog.

Overall, the advances in research are promising and could lead to improved diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment of scratching face in dogs in the near future. The combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors requires a multidisciplinary approach to develop effective solutions and promote the well-being of affected animals.

Frequently asked questions

Why do dogs rub their faces on furniture or the floor? Dogs often rub their faces on furniture or the floor to relieve itching. This can be caused by allergies, skin irritations, or parasites. It is important to determine the exact cause of the behavior to ensure appropriate therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..
Can stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. in dogs lead to scratching face? Yes, stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can lead to scratching face in dogs. Stressed dogs often exhibit stereotypical behaviors, including excessive scratching or rubbing of the face. Stress-reducing measures can help minimize this behavior.
Which breeds are particularly susceptible to scratching face? Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to skin problems that can lead to scratching face. These often include breeds with wrinkles or sensitive skin, such as bulldogs or Shar-Peis. A genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. plays a role here.
How can I tell if my dog is allergic? To determine if your dog has allergies, a veterinarian can perform allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. tests. These tests help identify specific allergens that may be causing the scratching face and allow for targeted therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..
Are home remedies effective against scratching face in dogs? Some home remedies can provide temporary relief, for example, by using oatmeal baths or aloe vera. However, it is important to treat the underlying cause to achieve long-term results. A visit to the veterinarian is advisable.
How can I prevent my dog’s scratching face? The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of scratching face requires good care of your dog’s skin and coat, regular veterinary visits, and the control of allergens in the environment. A balanced diet can also contribute to skin health.
Could scratching face be a sign of parasites? Yes, parasites such as fleas or mites can cause severe itching, which leads to scratching face. A thorough examination by a veterinarian can help diagnose and treat parasiteA parasite is an organism that lives on or in another living being (the host) and feeds at its expense. Parasites can cause a variety of diseases in animals and humans. infestations.
When should I take my dog to the vet? If your dog scratches its face excessively, skin injuries occur, or it shows other symptoms of illness, you should see a veterinarian. An early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. can help prevent more serious health problems.
Are there long-term risks if scratching face is not treated? Yes, untreated scratching face can lead to skin infections, chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. pain, and other health complications. Timely diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. are crucial to avoid long-term damage.
What treatments are available to stop scratching face? The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. depends on the cause and may include antiallergic drugs, topicalTopical refers to the direct application of medications or treatments to the skin or mucous membranes for a local effect, without being absorbed into the body. creams, or changes in diet. In the case of parasiticParasitic refers to diseases or conditions caused by parasites. Parasitic infections can affect the digestive tract, skin, and other organ systems. infections, special shampoos or medications may be required to relieve the itching.