How to Make Sure Your Dog Has a Healthy Coat

We know that dog owners want to take good care of their pets. The average American pet owner spends almost $1200 a year on their pets.

One of the ways you can keep your dog healthy is by caring for the skin and hair. A dog with a healthy coat looks and feels better. Itchy, dry skin often accompanies unhealthy coats and that can mean the dog is suffering.

Here are a few tips to keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy all the time.

Watch Their Diet

What a dog eats has just as much of an effect on their health as what we eat affects ours. Make sure your dog is eating the right things to keep their coat luscious and healthy.

Your dog needs to be eating enough fatty acids to keep their fur beautiful. Reputable dog foods are often high in Omega-6, which is perfect. But check the ingredients. Low-quality dog foods often come with little nutrition, including necessary fats.

There are a variety of yummy things you can give your dog for an extra boost. Offer a bit of tuna, sardine, or salmon on occasion. Your dog will love you for it and the Omega-3’s do wonders for the skin and hair.

If your dog has particular problems, especially with dry skin, try feeding a little oil. Mix a little olive, safflower, sunflower, flaxseed, fish, or coconut oil into their food. Don’t give too much or they could get diarrhea. Try starting with a teaspoon and adjust as needed.

Bathe and Brush

Keeping your dog clean will promote a healthy coat. But be careful not to bathe your dog too often. You’ll end up stripping out the oils needed to moisturize the skin.

The right schedule will vary depending on several factors. The type and length of hair, the environment, how sensitive the skin is–to name a few. Experiment a little to find the best routine for your furry friend.

Use a gentle shampoo that won’t irritate the skin too much. You can even consider using a conditioner afterward. One with Vitamin E will be especially soothing to the skin and hair. If your dog has lots of dry, itchy skin, an oatmeal bath may help a lot.

Brushing your dog helps stimulate oil production in the skin. It also helps to coat the hair with oil, making the hair nice and shiny. Try to brush your dog at least once every other day. Most dogs will love it!

Offer Shelter

If your dog is outdoors a lot, the coat will be thicker and drier in general. This is to better protect the dog from cold or harsh weather.

You don’t have to bring your dog indoors if you don’t want to. But a doghouse or other type of shelter will help keep a nice shiny, healthy coat.

Secrets for Healthy Coat

Do you have any tried and true secrets for a healthy coat? Leave your ideas in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!

Don’t be afraid to contact us with any questions. We’re happy to help you keep your furry friends healthy and happy.