Dry Skin Problem For Dog

Question
I have a 1 year old Lab/ Collie mix and he has just started
scratching a lot lately. His skin is flakey and seems dry. I want to
know if there are any home remedies I can try to help decrease
his itchiness? I would like to try something to see if it clears up
first and if it doesn't then I will take him to a vet.  I dont have
much money so Im trying to figure out some cheap way to
restore the oils for his skin. Do you have any ideas? The areas
that he scratches the most are: Legs, Back (right above the tail),
and head (behind ears and on top). It is getting cold here and I
figure the cold air from outside and the heat from the inside are
whats causing this, as this has just developed. I appreciate any
advice you could give me.  

Answer
I would be concerned about an underlying food allergy.  I would recommend a fish-based diet such as those made by Verus, Flint River Ranch, Wellness or Nature's Recipe...these diets are rich in oils and should help.  You can also supplement with Omega 3 Fatty Acids but that won't take the place of feeding a good qualtiy, all-natural diet.