As any pet owner knows, one of life's simple pleasures is petting your favorite dog. Running a hand over a soft coat of thick, shiny fur feels good to you and your dog. Unfortunately, if your dog has poor skin health, that simple pleasure might not be so pleasant.
Signs of a Problem with Your Dog's Skin
- Dry, flaky skin
- Excessive scratching, licking or rubbing
- Excessive shedding
- Hair loss and/or bald patches
What can you do?
- Check for pests. Examine your dog's coat and skin thoroughly for the presence of ticks, fleas, lice or other parasites. If you spot any, ask your vet for advice and follow the appropriate treatment.
- Consider allergies. If your dog is pest-free and otherwise healthy, his discomfort may be caused by an allergic reaction to something in their environment, such as pollen, dust or mold. Allergic dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that results in licking, scratching, loss of fur and dry, flaky skin. Learn more about allergic dermatitis.
- Talk to your vet. Skin conditions can have a wide range of causes - from parasites to allergies, from hormonal imbalances to bacterial infections, stress and more. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian about your dog's individual health and treatment options.
- Feed your dog well. Many dogs can benefit from a high quality food formulated especially for skin health and sensitivities. Look for one containing high quality protein, essential fatty acids and antioxidants -important nutrients that can help protect your dog's skin. Your veterinarian may also recommend a therapeutic food if they diagnose your pet with specific conditions.
You can also look into a variety Science Diet® dog foods made especially for adult dogs with dry, flaky, itchy and sensitive skin.
Tasty Tips
How often should your dog visit the veterinarian?
Related products
Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Adult Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Hearty beef paired with tender vegetables in a savory stew
Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Dog Food
Supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Related articles
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Choosing the Right Food for Your Adult Dog
Learn about choosing the right dog food to help ensure your adult dog will receive the correct balance of nutrition.
Hill's Puppy Food: Quality Ingredients for Health & Nutrition
Learn about Hill's puppy food and the nutritional benefit & high quality ingredients that it contains for your pup.
How Fatty Acids Can be Healthy for Your Dog
Understand the role that Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids play in your dog's overall health, and how you can ensure they are getting enough.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.