Caissie Canine Instruction: Help, my K9 has Dry Skin!!!!

We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful 4.5-year-old Golden Retriever named Brodie.

Brodie came to me via The Golden Rescue from Egypt. He was very reactive to everything when I first got him. He has come a long way. He is very friendly and a sweet boy who likes to cuddle in bed. He is great with my 6 grandchildren.

Brodie loves to chase chipmunks, bunnies, and other wildlife, not always coming back when called. We are working on his recall, and he is getting much better now. One friend called him “spicy” as his greetings sometimes can be overwhelming.

Welcome to Doggie Dialogue

All dogs are different; therefore, the symptoms of dry skin can vary. Some K9’s may have multiple symptoms.

Some of the common signs of dry skin in dogs may include:

Hair loss, dandruff, pimples,

Odor, redness of the skin, scabs,

Cracked skin, and itchiness.

These symptoms may be present in only one area, such as paws or the base of the tail. Some K9’s may be affected in multiple areas.

There are several causes of dry skin in dogs. Some of these changes can be serious and concerning, therefore a quick call to your vet maybe required.

Common causes of dry skin include, allergies, parasites, such as fleas, mites, ticks and lice, lack of nutrition, Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism or a skin infection.

Common food allergens in dogs are soy, corn, wheat, dairy chicken and eggs.

If your dog is uncomfortable or experiencing significant itching or redness/bleeding, let your vet know.

Your veterinarian will do a full physical examination, looking for subtle changes, such as redness between the toes or in the ears.

Most dogs will need testing, including a skin scrape, to look for yeast, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. More serious cases may require blood work.

Your vet may recommend a supplement to add to your K9’s diet,

antibiotics, anti-fungal treatment or an anti-inflammatory.

To help prevent dry skin on dogs it is recommended to feed your K9 a high-quality food that they can digest easily.

Brushing loose fur off your dog several times a week, will help with dry skin. Your vet will recommend using flea and tick products year-round.

Some factors for dry skin in your K9 can be excessive bathing. It is recommended using a veterinarian approved shampoo and reducing the frequency of baths.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your K9’s dry skin, please seek the advice from your veterinarian.