7 Tips to Keep Your Dog’s Coat Healthy
Whether you’ve owned dogs before or have recently gotten a furry friend for the first time, you have probably noticed how dirty they can be. Unlike cats and kittens, dogs are notorious for getting messy – which can often leave you in a constant battle.In time, you may start to see an impact on your pet’s skin and fur. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to ensure that your loved one stays in beautiful shape.
Interested in learning more? Below we are going to talk about 7 tips that you should follow to keep your dog’s coat healthy.
Table of Contents
Bathe Regularly
One of the easiest ways to get your dog smelling and looking great is to bathe them regularly. The simple process removes a build-up of dirt, and the correct shampoo can improve overall shine.
It is important to note that you shouldn’t bathe your dog every day as it can remove the natural oils. A couple of times a month is more than enough, especially if they spend time indoors.
When choosing a wash, look for a formula that is mild and gentle to avoid further flareup. It’s also a good idea to give them a treat after so they form a positive association with the process.
Provide Clothing
Pet clothing isn’t necessary for every dog. Most large breeds with thick coats have enough fur to keep them warm, even on cold winter days.
However, there are a few benefits to using them. Smaller dogs may have trouble retaining heat, and the additional warmth helps their joints. Some individuals have also noticed they prevent scratching while their pup is recovering from a certain skin condition.
Think Head to Toe
Alongside wearing protective clothing, it’s also important to think about your pets’ feet as well. Their paws can get cut, burned, or even be affected by frostbite in harsh weather conditions.
When looking at shoes for dogs keep in mind a few factors. They will need to be of high quality and comfortable to walk in. It can take a little while to get used to them, but you can rest assured their little feet will be safe from harm.
Make Diet Changes
Much like humans and their skin, a nutritious diet in dogs can lead to wonderful coats. So when selecting food, check that it meets the right requirements.
Certain oils, herbal supplements, and omega fatty acids can be added if you think something is lacking. Some assist with other aspects of your dog’s health that can also be helpful.
Just remember to check with your vet, and to always introduce new diet changes slowly. A quick alteration could cause an upset stomach in your dog and lead to further problems.
Invest in a High-Quality Brush
If your dog is a long-haired breed daily brushing is a must. Keeping their fur mat-free is critical and will ensure that the skin underneath doesn’t get irritated.
For regular coats opt for a brush that is a slicker or pin design. For shorter fur, a soft bristle is best. If your pet sheds, a de-shedding tool can also be a good investment.
Watch Out for Pests
Parasites and pests such as ticks and fleas can cause a lot of problems for your dog. They harm the skin and lead to other serious health problems.
If you haven’t already, get into the habit of warming and flea-treating regularly. If an infestation is severe and regular treatment isn’t working you may also have to treat your home to destroy any eggs. A pest control specialist can assist with this.
Speak to Your Vet
If you find that the coat of your pet isn’t changing after following the above, always speak to your local vet. There could be a specific condition or underlying concern which is causing visible problems.
A few that you may want to read further into include:
– Mange
– Canine Scabies
– Folliculitis
– Environmental Allergies
– Food Allergies
– Bacterial/Fungal Infections
Final Words
As you can see from the above, taking care of your dog is no simple task. However, with a bit of extra knowledge and a great schedule in place, your pup can achieve a wonderful coat.
The key is to be consistent, and of course, shower them with love. Dogs are one of the most loyal companions that you can have, and your hard work will be rewarded.
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