Dry skin on dogs is a common issue that affects all breeds and sizes. It often occurs during the winter when the air is cold and dry, but it can also happen any time of year due to environmental conditions or underlying health issues. Without proper care, dry skin can become itchy, irritated, and even painful for your pup. Luckily there are many ways to help relieve your dog's dry skin symptoms.
Causes of Dry Skin on Dogs
Parasites
If your dog's skin is dry and flaky, it may be because of a parasite infestation. Parasites like Demodex mites, canine scabies, and cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff) can all cause mange in dogs. Additionally, lice could be the culprit of your pup's dry skin. To know the root of the problem, take your furry friend to the vet for an examination and diagnosis - a specialist in veterinary dermatology may also be required if necessary.
Allergies
Dogs can get allergies just like humans do. Allergies to food, environmental factors, or seasonal elements such as pollen, dust, grasses, animal dander, grain, and flea saliva can cause a range of symptoms in dogs which often include dry skin. When left untreated, these allergies can lead to a condition called atopic dermatitis, which can cause dry skin, itching, redness, inflammation, and secondary skin infections. Therefore, it is important to identify the source of any allergies your dog may have to properly treat their dry skin.
Infections
Infections can be a cause of dry skin in dogs. Bacterial and fungal infections can result in various skin-related symptoms in our furry friends, such as itching, redness, inflammation, and secondary skin infections. Veterinarians diagnose canine skin infections by taking a sample from the affected area for cytology. It is important to take dry skin seriously, as it could indicate a larger issue. Some infections - such as the fungal ringworm - are transmissible to humans. Therefore, veterinary assistance is recommended if your pup suffers from dry skin.
Systemic Disorders
Sometimes, dogs' dry skin can indicate a more serious underlying issue. Conditions such as Cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, and autoimmune diseases can all cause dry skin in our furry friends and are often accompanied by other symptoms like dry and brittle hair, hair loss, itching, redness, and inflammation. Similarly, secondary infections.
13 Tips to Relieve Dry Skin on Dogs
1. Check for Signs of Allergies: You should check for signs of food and environmental allergies that could be causing your pup's dry skin.
- Monitor Diet: Keeping your pup's diet in check can make all the difference in dry skin. Make sure your pup gets enough fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals from whole food sources.
- Avoid Scrubbing: When bathing your pup, avoid scrubbing their fur too hard, as this can worsen dryness. You can also use Allergy Itch Relief Shampoo, that’s formulated to help dogs with dry skin. It has Ketoconazole, Chlorhexidine, and Aloe.
- Use Mild Shampoos: If you must use a shampoo, opt for one specifically designed for puppies or sensitive skin and free of harsh chemicals.
- Add Moisture to Food: Adding some canned food or broth to your pup's regular diet can help moisturize their skin from the inside out.
- Humidify Your Home: Try to keep your home's humidity levels comfortable, as this can help prevent dry skin in dogs.
- Regularly Brush Your Furry Friend: Brushing your pup regularly helps distribute natural oils through the fur, promoting a healthier and shinier coat.
- Avoid Hot Spots on Your Dog: Keep an eye out for signs of hot spots on your pup's skin, as these can exacerbate dryness.
- Use Coconut Oil: Apply coconut oil to your pup's skin after their bath to help reduce the dryness.
- Make Sure Your Dog Gets Enough Exercise: Regular exercise helps encourage healthy blood circulation, which can help prevent dry skin.
- Avoid Fleas and Ticks: Keeping fleas and ticks away from your pup prevents itchy skin and helps protect them from potential illnesses carried by these parasites.
- Vet Check: If home remedies do not work, it is important to take your pup to the vet for a check-up, as there could be an underlying issue causing dry skin.
- Trying out Pet Honesty's Omega-3 Fish Oil: This is made from sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and herrings that were caught in cold, clean waters from the coast of Iceland. It is 100 percent natural and helps dogs have healthier skin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dry skin on dogs can be caused by a range of factors, and it is important to take the condition seriously. If home remedies do not work, visiting your vet for an examination is recommended. Following the tips mentioned above can help keep your pup's skin healthy and hydrated all year round. Additionally, consider trying out Pet Honesty's Omega-3 Fish Oil, which is 100 percent natural to help your dog's skin stay healthy and is a good way to deal with itchiness. With these tips and products, you can ensure that your pup has happy and hydrated skin.
