Many dog owners overlook skincare as part of their pets’ grooming regimen, focusing more on the coat rather than what lies underneath. A few adjustments to bath time and brushing sessions can go a long way in the prevention of many skin conditions that affect dogs, from canine dermatitis to certain types of cancer. Whether you have a long-coated Afghan Hound or a nearly hairless terrier, there are many ways to help your dog feel comfortable in the skin they’re in. Here’s what to know.
Why Taking Care of Your Dog’s Skin Matters
Your dog’s largest organ isn’t their heart, lungs, or even their brain. It’s their skin, and it can make up 12 to 24% of a dog’s overall weight. Not only does the skin provide a protective barrier against the elements, it’s also responsible for a dog’s temperature regulation and resistance to infection.
Have you ever heard the phrase “a picture tells a thousand words?” The same sentiment applies to a dog’s skin. Upon examining a dog’s skin, a healthcare professional can glean useful information about possible nutritional deficiencies, allergies, and even the state of internal organs, such as the thyroid gland.
For the most part, your dog’s skincare is one of many aspects of their health that’s in your control. You can prioritize their well-being by first considering their age, coat type and length, and whether they have any allergies. Then, you can work toward implementing a comprehensive grooming routine that promotes your dog’s health while also helping them look their best.
General Skincare Tips for Dogs with Fur or Hair
There is no one-size-fits-all grooming regimen for every dog. Even dogs that are the same breed may require different skincare routines based on their age and state of health. That said, there are some general, across-the-board skincare tips recommended by many groomers and veterinarians alike. They include:
- Regularly brushing your dog’s coat. This helps stimulate hair follicles and encourages the secretion of sebum, an oil that keeps the skin moisturized. Use a brush or comb based on your dog’s coat type. For example, bristle brushes are ideal for smooth-coated dogs, while undercoat rakes are best for double-coated breeds.
- Bathing your dog using vitamin-rich shampoos. The frequency of your dog’s baths depends on their breed, activity level, and coat type. Use dog-friendly shampoos formulated with vitamins E and B, both of which hydrate the skin. Coconut oil is also a great moisturizer.
- Properly rinse your dog after shampooing. Residual shampoo left on a dog can cause dryness and flakiness. Proper rinsing should take longer than shampooing.
- Inspecting your dog’s skin up close. Examining your dog’s skin is more than a cursory glance while giving belly rubs. It involves spreading apart their fur at the root and examining their skin, taking note of insect bites, irritation, and excessive dryness.
- Installing a humidifier by your dog’s bed. Depending on where you live, the air in your home may lack moisture, possibly drying out your dog’s skin. Putting a low-humming humidifier by their bed can keep their skin hydrated while they rest.
There are also methods of promoting your dog’s skin health from the inside out. Up to 35% of a dog’s daily protein intake goes toward keeping their skin and coat healthy. Feeding your dog a complete and balanced diet rich in protein (such as lamb, chicken, or fish) can ensure they get the proper nutrition.
Unique Skincare Considerations for Hairless Breeds
While every dog benefits from skincare, it’s especially important for hairless breeds who don’t enjoy the degree of protection offered by fur or hair. Without certain precautions, they’re at an elevated risk of suffering skin cancer, sunburns, and bug bites, such as those from black flies. Fortunately, skincare for hairless dogs isn’t more challenging than for other breeds; it’s just different.
For starters, grooming a hairless dog involves weekly baths, where owners gently apply specially formulated shampoos and rinse with warm water. Antibacterial shampoo is commonly used on hairless dogs, as they’re at an increased risk of canine acne and dermatitis. Bathing doesn’t end with drying your hairless dog with a towel; after all, many shampoos strip the skin of its natural oils. To ensure that your hairless dog’s skin remains hydrated, apply lotions or oils with vitamins E and B. You may also consider using baobab oil to keep their skin moisturized, soft, and elastic.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Dog’s Skin Every Day
Taking care of your dog’s skin isn’t a one-and-done deal. It involves a level of commitment that at first may seem cumbersome, but over time can be incorporated into your daily routine. Some ways you can protect and promote your dog’s skin health outside of grooming include:
- Having your dog wear a raincoat outdoors. Wearing a raincoat is one easy way to prevent a dog’s fur from getting wet and becoming tangled, which can lead to skin irritation. Excessive moisture can also cause fungal infections, particularly in hairless breeds.
- Implementing a consistent flea-and-tick prevention schedule. Fleas and ticks can leave uncomfortable bites that can lead to itching, redness, and irritation that negatively affect your dog’s skin. There are oral and topical flea-and-tick preventatives, as well as vaccines. Make sure you dog is also free of internal parasites, which can affect weight, condition and coat quality.
- Applying sunscreen before heading outdoors. On sunny days, your dog could benefit from sunscreen if they’re hairless or nearly hairless. Look for a dog-friendly sunscreen that’s water-resistant and odor-free with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Sunscreen lowers the risk of sunburns and skin cancer.
- Keeping your dog’s coat at a manageable length. Some dogs, like Poodles and Yorkshire Terriers, have hair that will keep growing and growing. Ensure your dog’s hair remains at a manageable length to prevent discomfort from mats and tangles.
When to Consult a Veterinarian About Your Dog’s Skin Health
During the course of your dog’s skincare routine, you may notice some troubling signs that may warrant veterinary attention. These can include lumps and bumps, delayed wound healing, and signs of infection, such as redness or swelling. Outside of grooming, you may notice behavioral changes, such as persistent itching or other forms of discomfort, like incessant biting.
Whenever in doubt about the state of your dog’s health, consult their veterinarian for further insight. They may first recommend shampoos that soothe the skin and reduce irritation. If your dog’s skin problem proves to be more complex, they may take skin cell cultures or run an allergy panel to identify the issue’s root cause. Based on their findings, they may suggest dietary changes, steroid injections, or medications.
Your dog’s skin and coat are more than a fashion statement. It’s a reflection of their overall health and happiness—and they need your help with skincare to truly thrive.
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