As any pet owner knows, one of life's simple pleasures is petting your favourite 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
The UK Kennel Club recommends looking out for the following signs that your dog has sensitive skin:
Dry, flaky skin.
Excessive scratching, licking or rubbing.
Hair loss and/or bald patches.
They note that possible causes include:
Sensitivities or intolerances to certain ingredients like corn.
Environmental sensitivities, e.g. dust, pollen, grass or mites.
Dry air caused by cold weather, indoor heating or air conditioning.
Changes in the weather.
Parasites, e.g. fleas, mites or ticks.
Tasty Tips
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 sensitivities. If your dog is pest-free and otherwise healthy, consider if any environmental factors like pollen or dust could be causing their discomfort. Atopic dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that results in licking, scratching, loss of fur and dry, flaky skin. Learn more about atopic dermatitis.
Talk to your vet. Skin conditions can have a wide range of causes, including parasites, bacterial infections, sensitivities, hormonal imbalances, 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 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 dietetic food if they diagnose your pet with specific conditions.
Related products
Mature Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Mature Adult Multipack Wet Dog Food with Chicken & Beef are complete premium pet foods for mature adult dogs from 7 years. Your dog will love these deliciously smooth and savoury minced loaves, formulated to deliver the appropriate amount of energy to support the needs of adult dogs.
Puppy Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Multipack Wet Dog Food with Chicken & Beef are complete premium pet foods for growing puppies from weaning until 1 year old and for pregnant and nursing dogs. Your puppy will love these deliciously smooth and savoury minced loaves, formulated for balanced nutrition and overall health.
Adult Wet Dog Food with Beef
Hill's Science Plan Adult Multipack Wet Dog Food with Chicken, Beef & Turkey are complete premium pet foods for adult dogs from 1 year. Your dog will love these deliciously smooth and savoury minced loaves, formulated for balanced nutrition and overall health.
Hypoallergenic Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Hypoallergenic Adult Wet Dog Food with Salmon is a complete premium pet food for all adult dogs from 1 year. This savoury tinned loaf is specially formulated for dogs with delicate skin and stomachs. It features a single novel animal protein source and is grain-free.
Related articles
Vet's Advice About A Dog Diet
Just like every other pet owner, vets are responsible for giving their pets the best possible nutrition, exercise and care needed to keep them healthy and happy.
What should I do about my overweight dog?
Dog obesity is a significant problem - learn more about helping your dog become trimmer and healthier through improved nutrition.
Kidney Disease in Dogs: Causes, Signs & Treatments
Discover the causes, signs, and treatments of kidney disease in dogs and find methods of supporting your dog's kidney health. Learn more at Hill's Pet UK.
Excessive Dog Itching: Potential Causes
Understand the potential causes of excessive dog itching and how to address them. Seek relief for your dog with expert advice from Hill's Pet UK.
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 flavourful, 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 flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.