Tips For Keeping Your Dog’s Coat Healthy
When you have a furry friend, it’s your responsibility to ensure that they have a healthy coat. Now, most of us aren’t professional groomers or veterinarians, so it may be difficult to determine if your canine companion’s fur is in good shape. To make your life a little easier, here are a few ways to keep your pup's coat healthy.
Check To See if Their Fur Is Brittle or Smelly
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You should regularly check the consistency of your pup’s fur. According to Hill’s Pet, a dry or brittle coat may be an indication of a health problem. We know this is a little gross, but you should also make sure your canine companion’s fur doesn’t stink. An unpleasant smell is usually the result of bacteria. Thankfully, this can be easily remedied with a bath.
Brush Your Pup at Least Once a Week
Depending on your pup’s breed, you will have to brush them at least once a week. Now, this can be a difficult task. For one, dogs usually don’t love to be brushed and may take their anger out by biting your grooming tools.
According to Petco, there are some simple steps to ensure that your furry friend is comfortable while you are grooming them. First, grab a de-matting comb and gently detangle any matts. Then you’ll want to use either a slicker brush or a bristle brush to “brush your dog’s hair in the direction it grows.”
Focus On Your Pup’s Nutrition
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A good diet will help the appearance of your dog’s coat. While speaking to Fetch by WebMD, Dr. Wendy Brooks, DVM, shared that pup parents should stay away from low-fat diets to keep their dog’s hair nice and healthy.
“The obvious coat problems from deficiencies would be a dandruffy, dull coat from an omega-6 deficit if the pet is eating an extremely low-fat diet,” stated the vet.
Dr. Dawn Logas, DVM, clarified that your pup should get a good amount of fats by eating regular dog food.
“I see a lot of dogs that probably could use more fats in their diets. Most dog foods, fortunately, are very high in omega-6 [fatty acids]. Those in themselves can be helpful just to give a shine to the coat, add some luster back, and help replace the oils in the skin,” stated Dr. Logas.
The diplomat of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology also recommended giving your pup fish oil supplements.
“Omega-3’s have other beneficial effects for skin problems. They have very good anti-inflammatory effects, so we use them for dogs that have allergies or other inflammatory skin diseases,” stated Dr. Logas.
Be sure to consult your vet before changing up your dog’s diet!