WHAT CAUSES DOGS TO HAVE DRY SKIN?
Dry skin might seem like more of an annoyance than a health concern. However, dry skin is typically a result of an underlying health problem and, when noticed, shouldn’t be overlooked. Although there are a variety of different reasons that your dog might have dry skin, we’ve listed a few of the most common reasons below. So let’s jump straight into why dog’s get dry skin and what we can do to help treat this skin issue.
Changes in Weather
Similar to humans, dogs can experience dry and irritated skin due to weather changes. Cold weather, dry air, and even changes to indoor environments can affect your dog’s skin. Ways to combat the unforgiving low humidity of winter are to make sure your dog is getting plenty of fatty acids and is receiving a nutritionally balanced diet year-round and for indoor environments, adding an air humidifier can help!
Food & Diet
Deficiencies in vitamins, proteins, or essential fatty acids can contribute to dry, itchy, and/or flaky skin. Dogs can also have food allergies that if ingested, can irritate the skin. The best way to ensure your dog is getting all of the necessary nutrients is to do research on the benefits of different dog foods and add a daily supplement to your dog’s diet!
Dog Allergies
Dogs can have allergic responses to allergens just like humans do! Everything from food, environmental, and seasonal allergens can trigger an allergic response in dogs. A very common cause of allergic reactions in dogs is flea saliva. If not properly treated, these allergies can result in a skin condition known as atopic dermatitis which causes dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin.
Excessive Bathing
Bathing your dog too often can be detrimental to your dog as it can irritate the skin, damage hair follicles, and increase the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. Unless discussed otherwise with your veterinarian, dogs should not be bathed more than once a week. Dogs groom themselves to help facilitate the growth of hair follicles and to support skin health!
Infections
Bacterial and fungal infections can result in many different skin related problems in dogs that may appear to be just dry or flakey skin. A veterinarian will typically take a skin scrape to properly diagnose and determine what specific problem your canine friend is suffering from in order to properly treat it.
Symptoms of Dry Skin in Dogs
Every dog is unique and may not show all of the symptoms listed below. It is important to observe your dog’s symptoms to ensure the cause of the skin condition is diagnosed and treated correctly.
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Excessive itchiness
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Dandruff
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Odor
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Pimples
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Scaling
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Hair loss
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Flaking
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Inflammation
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Oily skin/ coat
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Scabs
How To Treat Dry Skin on Dogs
There are many causes for dry skin in dogs, which means the treatment method will change depending on the condition. If your dog’s dry skin is a symptom of a health condition, contact your veterinarian for help diagnosing and treating the condition––and the dry skin.
Your furry friend deserves the best, and when it comes to treating dry, flaky skin, a proactive approach goes a long way. Not sure where to start? Here are some effective steps to ensure your dog's skin remains soft, supple, and itch-free.
Take Your Dog To The Vet
Before diving into over-the-counter solutions, it's crucial to consult with your veterinarian. Dry skin can sometimes be a symptom of underlying health issues––including hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, fungal infections, and more. A vet can run tests and provide a proper diagnosis, which will help you address the root cause and not just the symptom.
Treat Dog Allergies
For dry skin caused by allergies, there are a few different treatment methods that veterinarians use in conjunction to ease your pet’s allergy symptoms. Dry/ irritated skin caused by environmental allergies may be treated by avoiding the allergen as best as possible, controlling the symptoms (dry/ itchy skin), and in some cases, allergy shots.
Food allergies that cause dry skin in dogs can be treated using an elimination diet to single out the food your dog has an intolerance to. Common food allergies for dogs include; beef, soy, corn, wheat, dairy, chicken, and eggs. Don’t start an elimination diet on your own; ask your veterinarian for help creating a plan that ensures your dog doesn’t miss out on the nutrients they need.
Allergies, whether from pollen, dust, or certain foods, can lead to dry and itchy skin for dogs. By identifying and eliminating allergens from your dog's environment or diet, you can reduce skin irritations. Again, a vet can assist in pinpointing specific allergies.
Improve Your Dog's Diet
What goes inside your dog can often reflect on the outside. Just like humans, dogs require a balanced diet rich in fatty acids, especially omega-3 and omega-6. These essential fats can help improve skin health and reduce dryness. Consider discussing dietary supplements or high-quality dog food options with your vet.
If your dog has dry skin caused by poor nutrition or malnutrition, it may be beneficial to include things like vitamins, proteins, essential fatty acids, and probiotics in your dog’s diet as a proactive way to stop troublesome dry and/or irritated skin from hindering your dog.
Use An Anti-Itch Dog Shampoo
Sometimes, the culprit of your dog’s dry skin is the shampoo you're using. Opt for a gentle, hydrating dog shampoo with ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera, which soothe and moisturize the skin. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue is left behind because it can further irritate the skin.
Though it's tempting to give your pup a bath every time they get dirty, excessive bathing can strip their skin of essential oils. Aim for less frequent baths and always use lukewarm water while utilizing a high-quality anti-itch shampoo such as the Dermabliss Anti-itch & Allergy Shampoo.
How To Prevent Dogs From Having Dry Skin
While you can’t foresee and prevent all skin conditions in dogs, there are proactive ways to lessen the chances of your dog developing a skin issue! A dog's skin is a testament to its overall health and well-being. While occasional dryness might not ring alarm bells, consistent issues could indicate underlying health problems or unsuitable environmental conditions.
Maintaining supple, healthy skin for your dog isn't just about aesthetic appeal; it's about ensuring their comfort and reducing potential health risks. Let's dive into strategies that can proactively guard against dry skin, allowing your pup to stay comfortable and itch-free.
MAKE DIET CHANGES
Nutrition comes from within and shows inside and out, which is why feeding your dog a nutritionally balanced diet will help to support healthy skin from within. This can be done by providing your dog with high-quality foods and by adding a supplement to your dog’s daily diet. Prioritize quality dog food that meets your pet's nutritional needs. Omega fatty acid supplements and other skin & coat dog supplements can be considered to aid in improving skin health.
GROOMING
While frequent bathing can contribute to dry and irritated skin, brushing your dog every day can help to prevent broken and loose hair from falling out. It also prepares the coat for healthy growth, reducing the chance of developing mats and future skin issues. Consistent brushing does more than just detangle fur; it distributes the dog's natural oils, promoting healthier skin.
It’s imperative to use gentle and effective dog bathing products like Furbliss Pet Shampoo & Conditioner to nourish the skin and coat. After shampooing, it’s important to condition your pet’s fur. Conditioners help detangle fur, moisturize dry skin, and offer a relaxing treatment for any pet! Furbliss Conditioner contains shea butter (a well-known moisturizer), safflower oil (which improves circulation), and aloe vera (which repairs skin cells and gives the fur a beautiful shine).
Schedule Regular Vet Checkups To Monitor Dry Skin & Other Skin Issues
Regular visits to the vet are pivotal in maintaining your dog's overall health but also for their skin health. A veterinarian can provide early detection of issues that might manifest as skin problems, recommend specific dietary needs or supplements, and offer guidance tailored to your dog's breed and lifestyle. By keeping up with these checkups, you ensure that any underlying causes of skin issues, if present, are promptly addressed.
Are There Home Remedies For Dry Dog Skin?
Every dog parent wants the best for their furry companion. While it's always essential to consult a veterinarian for persistent or severe skin issues, some home remedies can offer relief for minor dry skin concerns.
Remember, dogs are individuals, so what works for one might not work for another. Always test a small patch before full application, and keep an eye on your dog in case of an allergic reaction.
Are Some Dog Breeds More Prone To Dry Skin?
While any dog can experience dry skin caused by factors like diet, environment, and overall health, certain breeds are more susceptible to skin issues––including dryness. The reasons can range from genetic predispositions and specific coat types, to inherent sensitivities. Here's a closer look at some breeds that might need a bit more TLC when it comes to their skin:
- Bulldogs: Their adorable wrinkles and skin folds can trap moisture and become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned and dried properly.
- Dachshunds: Often prone to a condition called seborrhea, which can lead to oily or dry, flaky skin.
- Labrador Retrievers: While loved for their soft and water-resistant coats, Labs can sometimes suffer from dry skin due to various reasons, including allergies.
- Poodles and Poodle Mixes: Their curly coats can sometimes mask underlying skin conditions, and they’re also known to have some skin sensitivities.
- Chihuahuas: Their tiny size and often thin coat mean they can be susceptible to skin issues, including dryness.
- Boxers: Known to have sensitive skin, which can make them prone to certain skin conditions and allergies.
- Shar-Peis: Recognizable by their deep wrinkles, their skin folds can, like Bulldogs, trap moisture and debris.
- Siberian Huskies: Their thick double coats can sometimes hide skin issues, and they're also known to have some food and environmental allergies.
- West Highland White Terriers (Westies): Often prone to a range of skin issues, including yeast infections and allergies.
- Basset Hounds: Their droopy skin can sometimes harbor moisture and be a hotspot for various skin issues.
If you own or are considering adopting one of these breeds, it's crucial to be aware of their potential skin sensitivities. Regular grooming, routine check-ups, and a watchful eye can go a long way in preventing and treating skin issues before they become severe. However, it's essential to remember that individual dogs, regardless of their breed, can have unique health needs. Always consult with a veterinarian for breed-specific advice and care recommendations.
