Why is my dogs Skin Dry
Just like us humans, dogs can sometimes suffer from the seasonal perils of dry skin. This usually happens in the winter or when exposed to a lot of wind or dry air. Dry skin that is just accompanied by mild itchiness and flaking is nothing to worry about, but additional symptoms or signs of discomfort could indicate something more serious.
While there are a wide variety of potential reasons why your dog has dry skin, some are easy to fix while others are more challenging.
Reasons Why Your Dog Has Dry Skin
Dry Air
The most common reason for run-of-the-mill dry skin is low humidity in the air. Your dog’s skin needs some moisture to maintain its elasticity and resilience, and really dry air can cause it to lose that moisture.
If you notice that your dog is mildly itchy with some skin flaking during the winter, or if you live in an arid climate, try using a humidifier in your home. Forced-air heat in particular can really dry out your dog’s skin. Using a humidifier can help to keep everyone more comfortable, including you and your human family members!
Nutritional Needs
Nutritional deficiencies can also cause dry skin in dogs. Your dog’s diet may not be providing enough of the fatty acids that help to keep the skin healthy. Check your dog’s food to make sure that it has an AAFCO Statement indicating that proper work has been done to make sure it contains all the nutrients your dog needs. If you feed a homemade diet, work with a veterinary nutritionist to create a recipe that meets all of your dog’s needs—don’t trust recipes off the internet.
For many cases of dry skin, supplementing with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids does wonders for skin and coat health. These supplements are available in liquid and capsule forms. Choose a supplement that has been approved by the National Animal Supplement Council or is recommended by your veterinarian.
Too Many Baths
Another cause of dry skin in dogs is bathing too frequently. This can strip away the necessary oils on your dog’s skin, leaving it fragile and dry. Most dogs only require baths on an as-needed basis, usually a couple of times a year. If you find yourself bathing your dog more frequently due to odor or greasiness, consult with your veterinarian to see if your dog has a skin condition that is causing the symptoms you’re seeing.
Oatmeal-based shampoos are a great option for soothing dry skin and can be used on most dogs. Always make sure you rinse your dog thoroughly after a bath to remove any shampoo residue.
