How to Prevent and Treat Dog Dry Skin
The weather is getting cooler, and as the temperature drops, you may notice your dog scratching and itching more. Both humans and canines tend to suffer from dry skin in the wintertime, but not all pet owners know how to treat it. Here are a few ways to prevent and treat your dog’s dry skin.
Feed a Raw Diet
A raw diet has tons of benefits for dogs, from a better digestive system to increased fitness. Another huge advantage is a shinier coat and healthier skin. The natural oils in the raw protein will give your dog a softer and silkier coat. Traditional kibble is also often full of preservatives and additives, which can cause food and skin allergies, which will only be aggravated by the cooler weather.
Bathe Them
Bathing your dog when they have dry skin can help them if done correctly. Be sure to use a shampoo that helps moisturize and relieve itching skin, like an oatmeal shampoo. The wrong shampoo can strip your dog of its natural oils, so be sure you’re using the right one. Also, be sure to use warm water, as hot water can also aggravate the dryness.
Brush Them Daily
Not all dogs enjoy being brushed, but if they suffer from dry, itchy skin, you should try to brush them out daily. Brushing them will help remove dead skin and distribute inflammatory cells that congregate on the itchy skin. It will also prevent mats or knots from forming, which can also cause issues.
Give Them Oils
Consider adding oils to your dog’s diet or bathing routine. Extra oils such as fish oil, coconut oil, and olive oil are a great moisturizer for your dog. Just add a teaspoon to their food! If you’re concerned, run it by your vet first. These oils also have extra nutritional benefits, so it’s a win-win!
Use Vitamin E
Sometimes dogs need extra supplements and vitamins as well. Vitamin E is a great vitamin to include in your dog’s life. It acts as an antioxidant and will moisturize the coat. You can even buy the capsules labeled for humans and gently rub them into your dog’s dry skin. If they lick it off, don’t worry, as it’s great for their heart and liver!
Ready to start treating your dog’s dry skin? Order some of our tasty Just Raw Meals today and start seeing the benefits for yourself!