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Dog Skin Treatment Through Dietary Supplements

Dogs > Skin and Hair Conditions > Dog Skin Treatment Through Dietary Supplements

also see BARF Diet

also see Dog Eczema

also see Lice Dogs

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also see Canine Skin Allergies

Dog skin treatment including dietary supplements may be necessary to prevent, as well as fight, a variety of skin diseases, from mild to severe. The condition of both the skin and coat indicates whether your dog is healthy or sick.

Ideally, your dog's skin should be soft and free of sores, scabs, hot spots and hives. Your dog's coat should be soft and shiny. The right dietary supplements can prevent and alleviate symptoms like severe itching, inflammation, a dull coat and hair loss (which may indicate nutrient deficiencies or a serious illness).

Vitamins and Minerals for Healthy Dog Skin

Here is a list of key vitamins and minerals found in dietary supplements, and how they specifically improve the condition of your dog's skin and coat:

Vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and hair growth and helps treat sebaceous cysts and bacterial infections
The B Complex, which together prevent deficiency diseases of the skin by bolstering the immune system
Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine), which functions as a flea repellent
Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin), which prevents dandruff
Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid), which fights skin infections, allergies and inflammation
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), which prevents skin allergies
Vitamin B-9 (Folic Acid), which helps protein metabolism that is in turn necessary for healthy skin and coat.
Vitamin C, which bolsters immunity to serious illness including cancer that can affect the skin; fights mange; prevents dandruff; supports the production of collagen, a protein necessary for the formation of skin cells; and, serves as an antioxidant which rids the body of toxins that contribute to allergic reactions affecting the skin
Vitamin E, which heals rashes, eczema and sores; prevents baldness; and, functions as an antioxidant to prevent allergies
Calcium and phosphorus, which prevent eczema
Iron, which lessens susceptibility to hookworm infestation that can cause itching and skin lesions
Manganese, which is also necessary for collagen growth
Selenium, which prevents allergic reactions and inflammation
Zinc, which lessens susceptibility to skin infections

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) Prevent Dog Skin Irritation

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA), which prevent inflammation, drying and flaking of the skin.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids (Linoleic Acid), which promote healthy skin and coat at the cellular level.

Supplements come in tablets, liquids and powders. Remember: Always consult your vet before giving your dog dietary supplements to prevent any adverse side effects.

also see Treating Dog Fur Loss Caused by Parasites

also see Canine Allergy Testing and Desensitization Procedures Explained

also see Canine Skin Problems: Healing Rashes

also see Advice on dog itching and relieving symptoms of your dog’s itchy skin