Most pet dog owners find it quite difficult to spot problems that are bothering their pet. Especially if the problem is relatively new. It is a good idea not only to spot the outward signs of a pet's ailment in time, but also to know how to deal with them. Skin and coat growth problems are an unpleasant but solvable problem.
Review the hygiene products used
If you notice that your pet's coat doesn't look as healthy as it could, or if it suddenly starts digging intensively, it's likely that something is bothering your beloved pet. It could be the wrong choice of hygiene products. Keeping your dog clean is extremely important, and making the effort to wash and brush it regularly is a particularly commendable step. It's just that in some cases, a pet's skin needs the opposite of what it might seem. Dry skin and constant digging mean one thing: the shampoo must be of high quality and not dry out the skin even more. Check the ingredient list of the product used, avoiding overactive ingredients such as alcohol. It is often recommended to try organic, natural products. In addition, skin problems can often be caused or worsened by owners deciding too quickly to change the product they use or by washing their pet too often. Try to give the product time, and always consult your vet.
Consider whether the dog's diet is really complete enough
After trying millions of shampoos and different combs, problems can persist. This means one thing: it is a good idea to look at the animal's diet. Dogs, like other living organisms, need to get enough of the nutrients they need, not only for energy but also to maintain a healthy appearance. Check the composition of the food you have - are the ingredients really dominated by protein-rich sources? One trick is to buy dog food rich in omega-3 acids. This can be either dry food with salmon or individual treats. The latter is particularly clever - after all, you can continue to use regular food and just treat your pet to occasional treats while learning training commands or playing games together. Here is a link to quality, low-cost treats for your puppy - https://www.alphazoo.lt/produkto-kategorija/sunims/skanestai. In general, remember that when choosing food for your pet, it's not about the fancy labels, but about what's on the back of the pack - the ingredients.
Maintain a tidy home environment
Pets can not only cause but also suffer from allergic reactions. Allergies can be triggered by both food and elements in the environment. Even a dust heap that has not been cleaned for a long time can precipitate a negative reaction in the animal's skin. For these reasons, regular housecleaning is a must - not only for you, but also for your pet.
For dogs with sensitive skin, the serving of food is also very important. It is quite common for pets to develop skin problems on the chin due to infrequent cleaning of food dishes. It is recommended to pay attention to the food containers at least once every couple of days. This task becomes easy when quality, durable food containers that are easy to clean are chosen. Bowls that are made of stainless steel are the best choice. They are easy to maintain and have a long service life.
Do not forget to visit the vet regularly
If the problem persists, it is always a good idea to visit a veterinarian. After all, there are many health problems that can only be diagnosed and treated by a professional. If you want to find out what the exact problem is, take your pet to the vet for a check-up. The earlier the ailment is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat it. Therefore, if your pet's coat looks unhealthy or the animal itself seems unwell, see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Consider the possibility of stress
If the cause of the problem is not food or hygiene-related, it is worth considering other methods. Often, skin problems in dogs are caused by stress. Unfortunately, this is something that many pet owners do not even think about. Stress can be caused by a variety of things - from changes in routine to loud noises or unfamiliar environments. If you notice that your pet's behavior has changed for no apparent reason, it may be worth trying relaxation techniques such as aromatherapy or massage. These methods have been shown to work well in reducing stress levels in both humans and animals. If your pet is particularly anxious, it is also worth considering anti-anxiety medication prescribed by your veterinarian.
Use a good quality shampoo
If you have tried all of the above methods and the problem persists, it may be time to invest in a good quality shampoo. The market is full of different products - from cheap shampoos to more expensive ones. However, it is important to remember that price does not always reflect quality. In order to find a good shampoo, you need to read reviews and look for products that are designed specifically for dogs with sensitive skin. A good quality shampoo should not only cleanse the coat but also nourish and moisturize the skin. It is also important to choose a product that does not contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances. These ingredients can further irritate the skin and make the problem even worse.
Use a natural remedy
If you want to try a more natural method, you can make your own shampoo at home. This is a great option for those who are looking for a gentle and effective way to clean their pet's coat. To make your own shampoo, you will need: 1 cup of warm water, 1/4 cup of castile soap, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1/4 teaspoon of lavender essential oil. Mix all the ingredients together and use as you would any other shampoo. This shampoo is safe to use on a regular basis and will not irritate the skin.
Give your dog a good diet
As we have already mentioned, diet plays a very important role in the health of your pet's skin and coat. If your dog is not getting all the nutrients it needs, it is more likely to develop skin problems. Therefore, it is important to feed your pet a healthy, balanced diet. If you are not sure what food is best for your dog, ask your veterinarian for advice. Often, switching to a premium quality food can make a big difference. These foods are designed to provide all the nutrients that dogs need in order to stay healthy.
Use supplements
In some cases, diet alone is not enough to solve the problem. If your dog's skin problems are particularly severe, you may need to give them supplements. There are a number of different supplements that can be beneficial for dogs with skin problems. These include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, E and C, zinc and sulfur. Often, a combination of these supplements is most effective. However, it is important to speak to your veterinarian before giving your pet any supplements, as they will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
Use essential oils
Essential oils can be very beneficial for dogs with skin problems. They can help to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation and promote healing. Some of the best essential oils for dogs with skin problems include lavender oil, chamomile oil and tea tree oil. To use essential oils, you can add a few drops to your pet's shampoo or dilute them in water and spray on the affected area. It is important to speak to your veterinarian before using essential oils, as some of them can be toxic to dogs.
Give your dog regular baths
Regular baths are an important part of keeping your dog's skin healthy. However, it is important to choose the right shampoo and bathe your pet no more than once a week. If you bathe your dog too often, it can strip the natural oils from their skin, which can lead to dryness and irritation. When bathing your dog, make sure to use lukewarm water and avoid getting any soap or shampoo in their eyes, nose or mouth. After the bath, be sure to rinse your pet off thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.
Use a humidifier
If your dog's skin is particularly dry, you may want to consider using a humidifier in their room. This will help to add moisture to the air and keep their skin from drying out. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
Give your dog regular massages
Massaging your dog's coat can help to improve circulation and promote healing. It can also be a great way to bond with your pet. To give your dog a massage, start by gently rubbing their back and sides. You can then move on to their legs and feet. Be sure to avoid any areas that are sore or injured.
Apply a natural moisturizer
If your dog's skin is particularly dry, you may want to consider applying a natural moisturizer. Coconut oil, jojoba oil and shea butter are all great options. Simply apply a small amount of the moisturizer to your hands and massage into your pet's coat. Be sure to avoid their face and any open wounds.
Use an air purifier
If your home is full of dust, pollen or other allergens, it can trigger reactions in your dog's skin. An air purifier can help to remove these irritants from the air and provide Relief for your pet.