One of the most common queries we receive here at Healthy Dog World is how to keep a dog’s skin healthy. This is a tricky question that can prompt varying answers depending on a dog’s age, environment, diet, and unique skin condition. Luckily for you, we did the heavy lifting and compiled five simple ways that you can do to keep your dog’s skin and coat in tip-top shape. Check them out below!
Keep them hydrated
We all know that water helps regulate your dog’s body temperature. But did you know that water also helps keep your dog’s skin and coat shiny? It’s important to make sure that your dog is getting enough water throughout the day not only for their skin but also for a plethora of other health reasons. The more hydrated your dog is, the more moisture they can retain in their skin. In addition to many skin benefits, water also helps lubricate your dog’s joints, helps move nutrients throughout their body, release waste and toxins, aid in digestion, and enable your dog’s body to better absorb nutrients.
Ensure a balanced diet
Along with proper hydration, your dog’s overall diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining optimal skin and coat health. When choosing the best dog food for your pup, make sure to keep an eye out for products that have an adequate amount of protein and fat. Let’s take an in-depth look:
-
Proteins - Proteins play a critical role in the development of your pup’s body. It helps regulate your dog’s muscle mass, strengthens their bones and muscles, and ensures healthy skin and coat.
-
Fats - Fats are made up of building blocks called fatty acids. Fatty acids help your dog’s body absorb essential nutrients and aid their metabolism.
These two nutrients help maintain healthy skin and coat by providing the essential amino acids and fatty acids needed to moisturize the skin, reduce inflammation, and fight free radicals.
Observe grooming best practices
As pet parents, it’s common knowledge that a shiny coat indicates a healthy dog. While it pays to ensure that your pup is getting a balanced diet and enough water, it’s equally important to have some sort of know-how when it comes to grooming best practices. Below are some of the most important steps to follow:
-
Regular brushing - Remember, brushing should always come before bathing. Regular brushing helps remove dead/loose hair, prevents matting, and gets rid of unwanted debris that may be lingering in between your dog’s fur. Brushing also distributes oil to other parts of your dog’s body.
-
Scheduled bathing - It is important to note that the bathing needs of each dog are different as some may need more regular baths than others. Make sure to do enough research to prevent over washing as this may dry out your dog’s skin and coat.
-
Visit the groomers - If you’re new to all this, it’s not a bad idea to visit professionals that could help you groom your pup. Groomers are trained to take care of your pup’s skin and coat depending on their body’s unique needs.
Work with your veterinarian
Your veterinarian should be able to assess your pup’s current skin and coat condition and suggest ways on how you can improve the care you are providing. They should also be able to walk you through the ins and outs of proper skin and coat care to ensure that you are observing the right grooming practices. Veterinarians can also determine whether your dog needs skin and coat supplements to ensure that your dog is getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals.
Bonus tip: Consider skin and coat supplements
Does your pet need skin & coat supplements? As the name implies, skin and coat supplements promote healthy skin and coat. Look for a supplement that is formulated with fish oil and fatty acids - ingredients known to reduce itching and inflammation and improve your pup’s skin condition.
How about you? Do you have other tips and tricks to ensure that your pup’s coat stays shiny and healthy? Let us know in the comments below!
