Dog owners know that while all dogs are beautiful no matter the color or thickness of the fur, a shiny coat means the dog is healthy.
“One of the best things about having a doggie in your life is petting them. Cuddling up to your doggo and playing with their super soft coat is bliss. If you’ve noticed that your dog’s coat doesn’t seem like a healthy, shiny coat, don’t worry. There are …ways to turn a dull, dog coat into a sleek, shiny, healthy coat, “ Emily Wang said in “How Do I Maintain My Dog’s Coat?” in BarkPost,com
Wang added, “Sometimes a dull dog coat, can be the signs of skin issues. If your dog seems to be scratching a lot, or losing more hair than normal, speak with your vet to see if they need special treatment. Your dog may have allergies or something else.”
In “Tips To Keep Your Dog’s Fur Healthy & Shiny” in Madpaws.com, author Melanie said diet, fish oils, oatmeal, eggs and grooming can contribute to a healthy coat.
1. Diet
A dull coat is a good indicator that your dog is not getting the nutrients he/she needs, said Melanie.
“Whether you’re feeding dry, wet or raw food, it should be perfectly balanced to give your dog exactly what it needs. Avoid any foods with grains like corn, wheat and soy which can cause allergies and provide very little nutrition to your dog, “ Melanie said.
Wang, on the hand, said “Low-fat diets may also cause an omega-6 deficit. That deficit can turn a healthy coat into coarse, dry hair. Check the label of your dog food to see what’s in it, and how much omega-6 is included. Grains, especially genetically modified grains, sometimes don’t bode well with pups and can also cause skin issues.”
Wang added that owners must make sure the dog food stays fresh. “The essential fatty acids that are often included in complete and balanced kibble are prone to oxidation when exposed to air. To ensure your dog’s food stays fresh, store in an airtight container. Don’t forget to check the sell-by date on the package, “ Wang said.
2. Fish oils
Fish oils (particularly Omega 3) in the form of a supplement can be added to the dog food to keep the coat looking good, said Melanie.
“Alternatively, you can add some oily fish to your dog’s diet such as salmon, tuna or sardines. Whichever method you choose, start off with small amounts as too much oil can cause digestive issues,“ said Melanie.
3. Eggs
A raw egg can be added to the dog’s dinner once a week, Melanie said. You can also grind the egg shell and sprinkle on the dog food regularly, she added.
4. Grooming
Grooming is very important, even for dogs who do not shed.
“Aim to brush them a couple of times a week. Regular brushing removes dead skin and hair and brightens up their coat, “ Melanie said.
Wang said it is also important to follow a proper bathing routine.
“Based on your dog’s breed and personal needs, he may need a different bathing schedule than other dogs. Some dogs have skin that can only be shampooed and bathed once every few months. Other dogs need weekly baths, “ Wang said.
Shampoos with aloe vera or oatmeal, or a hypoallergenic option is good for dry skin, Wang added.
“A DIY colloidal oatmeal bath for your dog can help significantly with skin and coat health in an easy and cheap way. Oatmeal soothes and moisturizes skin (humans can also enjoy the benefits of a colloidal oatmeal bath). If your dog has allergies, this can soothe them,” Wang said.
Lastly, Wang recommended herbal remedies but she stressed the owner must first consult a vet.
“Horsetail and spirulina are two options that you could give a go for your pup, “ Wang said.
“Horsetail contains silica, which helps with the maintenance of healthy skin, bones, and fur. Spirulina contains B vitamins and carotenoids that support healthy skin as well, “ Wang added.