Dog skin problems vary in severity and develop in both puppies and older pets. The skin reflects the dog's health condition, as many underlying diseases cause symptoms like skin disorders. In order to maintain healthy skin and coat, pet owners should understand the factors that influence skin disorders and seek medical care if the pet exhibits any symptoms.
Causes of Dog Skin Problems
Fleas are parasites that carry several diseases and infectious illnesses, and transmit them to pets through bites. This causes excessive itching, which in turn leads to secondary bacterial infections. Apart from fleas, the dog can develop fungal infections, yeast infections and mange related skin disorders. Another common cause of skin problems is allergy. The allergens can include dust, mold, smoke and even food. Regardless of the type of allergen, pets can develop hives, skin inflammation and lesions.
Treatment for Dog Skin Problems
The vet will perform a series of diagnostic tests according to the clinical symptoms exhibited. A skin scraping test may also be performed to obtain a microscopic analysis of skin cells. Fungal infections will be treated with anti-fungal medication, while skin allergies will be treated with antihistamine tablets. Bacterial infections that lead to skin lesions or pustules may require a course of antibiotic medication. Although each skin condition is treated with specific medication, ointments or shampoos, pet owners can improve the dog's skin and coat by introducing supplements to the pet's diet.
Diet and Supplements
Pets should be fed high quality, nutritious diets that consist of all the components of a healthy diet. Pets with compromised immune systems can also benefit from additional supplementation to ensure complete dietary intake. There are several commercially available supplements enriched with vitamins that help maintain healthy skin and coat. Pet owners should avoid the use of over the counter diet supplements, and talk to the vet about introducing supplements to the dog's diet. The nutritional needs vary in individual dogs and the vet will determine a supplement that's suited to the pet.
Commercially Available Supplements Include:
- Super Pure Omega 3
- Lipiderm
- Brite Coat XS
- Vita Chews for dogs
- Super Joint Omega
- Nordic Naturals Omega 3
Supplements
Most supplements contain omega 3 fatty acids that are essential for healthy skin. Some supplements contain a combination of active ingredients that include omega 6, vitamin A and E. These ingredients also reduce shedding and help to maintain a shiny coat. The supplements are available as capsules that are easy to administer. Capsules are punctured and mixed with food to make them more palatable. Since the dosage varies according to the pet's weight and age, it's important to read and follow package instructions in order to dose the pet appropriately. Although most supplements don't cause any side effects, it's best to seek medical help if the dog exhibits any unusual symptoms.
Home Care
Along with supplements, pet owners should take necessary measures to protect their dog from skin conditions. Dogs should be checked routinely for fleas and the household should be disinfected to kill flea larvae. Pet owners should also prevent the dog from exposure to known allergens.
Skin supplements may not treat pre-existing skin conditions. However, they work effectively to maintain a healthy skin and coat.