If your dog suffers from a skin condition, whether it is genetic, common in their breed or they suffer from allergies, there are various ways you can ease their symptoms and promote healthier skin. Sometimes, skin conditions in dogs are triggered by something in their diet, which once eradicated, can help your dog feel better. Before changing their diet, consult with a canine nutrition specialist to understand more about the best diet for your dog that provides them with the essential nutrients they need. But what dog food works best for skin conditions; raw, wet or dry?
In our guide, we will explore the best dog food for itchy and dry skin, as well as the alternative diet options for dogs with skin allergies. We will also discuss other ways you can help your dog, such as changing their grooming habits and providing them with extra supplements to get their skin back under control.
Discover our advice when feeding a dog with itchy skin
Dry skin in dogs can be caused by various irritants, including their current diet
Common allergens in dog food can cause unwanted reactions, such as itchy, sore skin
Here’s how we can assist you and your pooch
Dog Food for Itchy Skin
When dogs display signs of itchy skin, it is common for your first instinct to be fleas. If they have been checked and treated and are still itching, there could be something else triggering inflammation. Common causes of itchy skin that aren’t flea or parasite related include dermatitis, allergies, infections and the breed of your dog. Breeds such as cocker spaniels and border terriers are more prone to itchy skin.
If your dog’s diet is affecting their skin, get in touch for a wellbeing consultation at Fetch today; we can help to identify the allergen that is potentially affecting your dog, and suggest diet changes to help boost their immune system and get them feeling like themselves again. The best ingredients for itchy skin include:
- Fish
- Hypoallergenic ingredients, such as novel proteins (venison, duck or rabbit are suggested)
- Grain free dog food, as grain is a common allergen
- Supplements and probiotics, such as copper, zinc and certain vitamins if your dog has a deficiency.
Before you get to the bottom of your dog’s itchy skin, try to avoid certain ingredients in food that could be contributing to their symptoms. Try to avoid beef and chicken, artificial colours and flavours, wheat, soy, corn, grain and dairy. At Fetch, we have various dry dog food options perfect for dogs with itchy skin, specially formulated to promote healthy skin.
You can also try bathing your dog with soap specifically designed for sensitive skin, such as the Natural Dog Company’s shampoo and spritz. You can seek out natural treats, and also try adding omega supplements such as fish oil l to their meals.
To find out more about feeding a dog with itchy skin, .
Dog Food for Dry Skin
Although dry skin is common in dogs, especially when the seasons change, common bouts of dry skin can have a deeper cause. Issues such as allergies, infections, excessive bathing and autoimmune disorders can all cause dry skin, but for some dogs, the answer lies in their food. Once you’ve determined that your dog’s diet is causing their dry skin, you can take the right steps to change their meals. Ingredients that can promote a healthy coat and skin include:
- Leafy greens, such as spinach and broccoli
- Novel proteins like venison and fish such as salmon
- Fish oils to balance omegas
Our dry dog food options, such as our DARF cold pressed dog food range, present various flavours and ingredients for dogs with dry skin, such as salmon.
Although there are dry dog food options available for dogs with dry skin, raw and wet can also be good alternatives. Raw dog food closely mimics their ancestral diet, and is higher in natural oils to help hydrate your dog’s skin. Wet dog food also has a high moisture content to promote healthy skin. Before making drastic changes, consult a canine nutrition specialist first.
You can find out more about finding the perfect diet for a dog with dry skin in our previous guide here.
Dog Food for Skin Allergies
If your dog is having an allergic reaction evident on their skin, the culprit may be lurking in their food. Allergic reactions to food may also be displayed in other unpleasant symptoms, such as diarrhea and vomiting.
Common allergens found in dog food include:
- Meats such as beef and chicken
- Dairy
- Eggs
- Soy
- Grain
You can determine what your dog is allergic to by consulting a professional. If you feed your dog a raw dog food diet, removing the allergen straight away can make a huge difference. Look for raw products such as venison and rabbit as an alternative. If you feed your dog wet food, look for grain free options and novel proteins, but always ensure the moisture content is high. Dry dog food can be a great option for dogs with skin issues, and cold pressed options can even be provided alongside raw food. Nourish Rite grain free trout has 50% fish and other vitamins and minerals included to promote healthy skin.
When choosing the best meat, novel proteins are recommended. Providing special treats, skin and coat supplements, and allergy support can also lessen your dog’s symptoms.
You can find out more about dog food for skin allergies in our previous guide here .
Choosing Dry Dog Food with Fetch
At Fetch, we stock a wide range of raw, wet and dry dog food options perfect for dogs with skin problems. As well as changing their diet, we also provide skin supplements and specialised shampoos to ensure your dog lives an irritation free life. You can book in for a wellbeing consultation today to see what is causing your dog’s dry, itchy skin, and make positive changes to make your dog fit and healthy again.