Did you know you can tell a lot about your dog’s health through the condition of their skin and coat? It’s a good outward indicator of their overall health!

Healthy skin for your dog should feel supple and clear, free of any grease, flakes or bumps. Similarly, a health coat should be shiny and smooth—although the degree of these are dependent on the breed of dog you have [1]!

Taking care of your dog’s skin and coat is super important, and it can vary a lot depending on their breed. It's worth it to dig into what your canine companion needs for their specific coat type.

For example, some dogs have what’s called a “double coat,” which means they have a tougher outer coat and a softer undercoat. If you’re not aware of this, you might miss caring for that undercoat, and that can lead to uncomfortable mats that might even need a trip to a professional groomer to fix [2].

To avoid any skin and coat troubles, we’ve got you covered as we’re going over five valuable ways to care for your dog’s skin and coat in this blog. Remember, a bit of extra care can make a big difference in keeping your four-legged friend happy and healthy!

Before we jump into caring for your dog's skin and coat, it's important you understand the different types of coats dogs can have. Knowing whether your dog has hair or fur is the first step.

Both hair and fur are made of keratin, but they grow differently. Fur is genetically programmed to grow to a specific length, known as the predetermined length (PDL), and then it stops. This means your dog’s fur will only get so long before it naturally stops growing—followed by shedding. On the other hand, hair has what’s called an undetermined length (UDL), meaning it will continue growing until it's cut or breaks off.

Additionally, many dogs have what's known as a double coat, which includes both an undercoat and an outercoat. This is different from single-coated breeds, which only have one layer of hair or fur, either predetermined or undetermined in length.

The undercoat, also referred to as wool or secondary hairs, is generally softer and exists primarily for insulation. It typically has only two layers: the cuticle and cortex. The undercoat sheds frequently, often in response to seasonal changes.

The outercoat, which protects against environmental hazards and water, consists of three layers: the cuticle, cortex, and medulla, making it tougher and longer-lasting. These hairs are stronger, longer, and grow much slower. In some cases, they may hardly grow over long periods [3].

Understanding whether your dog is double-coated or single-coated is essential for proper grooming and care. Double-coated dogs, in particular, require regular grooming to prevent matting and manage shedding. Getting to know the specifics of your dog's coat type can make a significant difference in maintaining their health and appearance.

Everything starts with diet. Just like us, dogs need the right balance of nutrients to keep their skin and coat healthy. Here’s how you can ensure they’re getting what they need:

Omega Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids are crucial for the health of your dog's skin and coat. They strengthen the skin by fortifying proteins and boosting collagen production, which can make the skin more resilient and the coat glossier. A good balance of essential fatty acids ensures that your dog's skin retains moisture, is protected against environmental damage, and supports the growth of a shiny coat [4].

The most important fatty acids for your dog's skin and coat health are omega fatty acids. These are vital for maintaining shiny fur and healthy skin. Here are some excellent sources of omegas you can add to your dog's diet:

• Fish

• Camelina Oil

• Flaxseeds

• Chia Seeds

• Hemp Oil

Incorporating these sources into your dog's diet can greatly enhance their coat's luster and improve their skin health. Remember, it’s important to consult a vet about the right dosage based on your individual dog!

Protein

Protein plays a vital role in the health of your dog's skin and coat, forming about 95 percent of the hair structure in both cats and dogs. It’s so important in fact that 25 to 30 percent of a dog's daily protein intake is devoted specifically to renewing the skin and coat [5]! This highlights the importance of including robust sources of protein in your dog’s diet.

Opt for high-quality proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb to ensure your dog is getting the necessary nutrients to support a strong, healthy coat and resilient skin.

Grooming is more than just a beauty routine; it’s crucial for your dog’s health. It removes tangles, dirt, and spreads natural oils throughout their coat.

One part of grooming your dog is brushing. This not only keeps their coat lovely and matte-free but also helps to spread those natural oils that keep their skin healthy. Depending on your dog’s coat, a daily or weekly brush might be needed.

The other part of grooming is bath time. While it’s not needed as regularly as brushing, bath time is an essential part of the routine. But don’t overdo it! Washing too often can dry out their skin. Generally, a bath once a month with a gentle dog-specific shampoo does the trick, unless they’ve rolled in something they shouldn’t have…

Pro Tip: If you have a dog with a fur-type coat, many groomers advise against shaving your dog. Instead, it’s better to de-shed them to avoid damaging their top coat and messing up the growth cycle of the undercoat [3].

Like us humans, dogs need to stay hydrated to keep their skin from getting dry and itchy. To help keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy, always keep a bowl of fresh water handy for your dog, and refresh it daily.

Another, often overlooked, aspect is the moisture content in their food. Dry kibble, which typically contains only 5-10% moisture, can inadvertently contribute to dehydration and affect your dog's overall health. This lack of moisture means that to digest dry food, your dog's body must pull fluids from vital organs, such as the kidneys and liver, as well as the skin, which can lead to further dehydration [6].

To ensure your dog stays adequately hydrated, consider adding more moisture-rich options to their diet. Mixing wet food with dry kibble is a great way to increase their fluid intake and maintain supple skin. Alternatively, you can soak their dry kibble in warm bone broth or water. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the kibble to absorb the liquid fully.

Nothing ruins a good day like itchy skin. Fleas, ticks, and allergens can really make your dog uncomfortable. Talk to your vet about the best ways to keep the pests at bay, whether that’s with collars, sprays, or chewables.

If your dog can’t stop scratching, they might be allergic to something. Your vet can help you figure out what’s bothering them and suggest ways to help, from changing their diet to starting medication.

Lastly, make sure you’re visiting the vet regularly. They can spot things you might miss and provide tips specific to your dog’s breed and health needs.

• Veterinary Consultations: Use these visits to ask about your dog’s specific health and grooming needs.

• Skin and Coat Assessments: Regular check-ups help catch any issues early, which can save a lot of discomfort and trouble down the line.

Keeping up with your dog’s skin and coat care is not only a way to show your love, it’s also crucial to keeping them comfortable and healthy long-term. These five tips aren’t just about grooming—they’re about making sure your dog feels as good as they look. Here’s to many happy, healthy years with your well-cared-for canine!

[1] https://vcacanada.com/know-your-pet/coat-and-skin-appearance-in-the-healthy-dog 

[2] https://www.hartz.com/en-ca/caring-for-your-dogs-coat/ 

[3] https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dogs-hair-fur-grooming/ 

[4] https://pupford.com/improve-dogs-skin-coat/ 

[5] https://www.veterinary-practice.com/article/can-proteins-improve-skin-and-coat-condition 

[6] https://nillastub.com/blog/the-importance-of-moisture-in-pet-food/