Summer seems to be slowly winding down—but for dogs and their skin, August often marks the start of a particularly challenging time. Many pet owners underestimate just how active fleas, ticks, and other factors that irritate the skin still are. Yet the last warm weeks of the year are especially critical: skin problems often develop gradually and go unnoticed until they visibly worsen.

Why fleas and ticks are particularly active in August

Fleas and ticks thrive in warm, humid conditions—exactly what late summer brings. During the day, it’s often still hot, while the nights are getting cooler and more humid. This combination creates ideal conditions for parasites. What’s more, many dogs spend a lot of time outdoors right now—in tall grass, in fields, or in the woods.

Ticks are now active well into October, especially in regions with mild climates. Fleas also thrive in heated living spaces or pet beds—a single flea can lay hundreds of eggs, which can quickly lead to a serious infestation.

How skin problems can be caused by parasites

A tick bite often goes unnoticed, but leaves a small wound. If this wound is not properly cared for, it can become infected. Flea bites, too, do more than just cause itching—many dogs develop allergic reactions to flea saliva, which can lead to excessive scratching and skin irritation.

But it’s not just the parasites themselves that are a problem. Frequent scratching, biting, or licking of affected areas can also weaken the skin barrier and disrupt the natural balance of the skin’s flora. This makes it easier for bacteria and fungi to gain access—resulting in hotspots, weeping eczema, redness, or even hair loss.

Other triggers in late summer

In addition to parasites, there are other factors that can cause skin problems in dogs during August:

• Swimming in a lake or the ocean can dry out or irritate your skin

• Pollen, dust, and grasses trigger contact reactions

• Intense sunlight and heat can be harsh on sensitive skin

• Residues from insect repellents or chemical cleaning products can cause irritation

Dogs with sensitive or already damaged skin are particularly vulnerable right now. That’s why it’s important to take preventive measures and provide targeted care for their skin.

What dog owners can do now

To prevent skin problems in late summer or detect them early, veterinarians recommend the following measures:

1. Daily Check of the Coat and Skin
Dogs should be checked regularly for ticks, redness, or scabs, especially in the armpits, between the toes, around the ears, and on the tail.

2. Gentle skincare instead of harsh products
Avoid products containing alcohol, perfume, or synthetic ingredients. Right now, your skin needs support above all else, not additional irritation.

3. Strengthening the microbiome
A healthy skin microbiome is essential for the skin’s resilience. It protects against inflammation and helps restore balance after irritation.

Doderm – Natural relief for irritated skin

Doderm Repair Gel is designed to gently soothe irritated, stressed, or sensitive skin and help restore the skin’s natural balance. It contains natural antibodies derived from colostrum—an innovative active ingredient that specifically targets harmful microorganisms without disrupting the skin’s beneficial flora.

Whether it’s after a tick bite, due to flea allergies, minor scrapes, or itching—Doderm can help strengthen the skin barrier and restore your dog’s well-being.