The health of your dog’s coat goes beyond appearance. It can be affected by allergies, or underlying conditions with the skin caused by diet or environmental factors. Here are some signs to look for, and the steps you can take to improve the skin and coat health of your pet.

The Signs

 

Coat appearance

• Dull and brittle: The coat lacks its usual shine and breaks easily.
• Excessive shedding: More hair is lost than is typical for the breed, with fur covering the house.
• Greasy or sticky: The fur feels oily, rather than soft and healthy.
• Bald spots: Hair loss occurs in patches, or the coat is thinning significantly. 

 

Skin appearance

• Flaky or scaly: You may see dandruff on the fur or bedding.
• Red or inflamed: The skin looks irritated or has rashes.
• Scabs or sores: You might find crusty patches, scabs, or open wounds. 

 

Behavioral and other signs

• Itching and scratching: Your dog frequently scratches, bites, or licks their skin, which can lead to hot spots or sores.
• Unpleasant odor: A "doggy odor" can signal an underlying skin infection or other issue.
• Other health changes: Weight changes, lethargy, or changes in appetite can also accompany skin and coat problems

 

Steps to Take

 

Nutrition and hydration 

• Feed a high-quality diet: Choose a food with high-quality animal protein as a primary ingredient.
• Supplement with omega fatty acids: Give your dog a source of omega-3s from fish oil, which promote hydration, reduce inflammation, and add shine. Nusentia offers Celavin™ Norwegian Salmon Oil - high Omega-3 Formula.
• Ensure adequate hydration: Always provide fresh, clean water to keep the skin moisturized and prevent dryness.
• Consider supplements: Other beneficial nutrients include biotin, vitamin E, and zinc, which support skin health and hair strength. Nusentia offers Dermix™ Skin and Coat Formula -High in Skin and Coat supporting nutrients

Grooming and maintenance

• Brush regularly: Brushing helps remove loose fur and dead skin, distributes natural oils, and prevents mats, which can cause irritation. The frequency depends on your dog's coat type.
• Bathe with the right shampoo: Use a dog-specific shampoo and rinse thoroughly to prevent skin irritation and dryness from residue.
• Check for parasites: Use vet-approved flea and tick prevention to avoid issues caused by parasites like itching and hair loss.
• Monitor skin: Make a habit of checking your dog's skin for any signs of irritation, dryness, or infection. 

 

Lifestyle and environment

• Provide exercise: Regular exercise improves circulation, which helps deliver nutrients to the skin and coat.
• Consider the environment: Use a humidifier in dry climates or indoor environments to help keep your dog's skin from drying out.
• Get some sun: Moderate sunlight exposure can help boost vitamin D levels, which is beneficial for coat growth. 

 

When to see a vet

• Consult your veterinarian: If your dog has persistent skin or coat problems like excessive shedding, dryness, or a dull coat, consult your vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions or to get a specific treatment plan. 

Hopefully you find these steps helpful, and if needed, they will work to resolve any issues your pet has. Here’s to healthy skin, beautiful coat and to a happy dog!