The importance of feed in our dog's skin and hair problems
Nutrition is everything for our little one's health. Proper nutrition for our pet can prevent serious skin problems, such as allergies or dermatitis, and also affect their coat—making it stronger and shinier. Food is, par excellence, the staple food in our pet's diet, so it's vitally important to pay attention to the product they are given , the quantities of the ingredients in its composition, and the manufacturing process.
In this article, we'll focus on why dog food is so important for the health of our dog's skin and coat. We'll explain the most common skin problems in dogs, as well as hair problems in dogs and how to improve them through feeding them food for dogs with skin problems. Read on to find out more!
Skin problems in dogs
Skin problems in dogs often cause our little one to scratch constantly , but they can also cause pain with open ulcers, changes in skin pigmentation, the appearance of nodules, lumps and spots, redness, inflammation, and more. Some of the most common skin problems in dogs are allergic dermatitis from insect bites, atopic dermatitis, fungal dermatitis, malassezia dermatitis, mange, seborrhea, pyoderma, folliculitis, pododermatitis, neoplasia, and lesions. Hormonal and behavioral problems are also responsible for many skin conditions in dogs.
Hair problems in dogs
When we talk about hair problems in dogs, we must keep in mind that they are often related to skin problems in dogs as well. Due to inflammation and the dog's persistent scratching , areas of hairlessness or very little hair can appear. Diseases such as mange, diabetes, or skin allergies are also responsible for hair loss, as can an unbalanced diet—as is the case with people. It's important to keep in mind that dogs also shed twice a year, usually when temperatures are high. This is completely normal, so there's no need to worry. Another reason for hair loss is stress. In these situations, we can find cases of alopecia areata—specific areas of the body that are hairless, usually the size of a coin. To solve these problems, we must identify the cause of the stress in the animal.
How to take care of a dog's health
The importance of skin and coat problems in our dogs is significant, as some diseases or disorders can become more complicated if not given the necessary attention. Therefore, the first thing we should do is consult a veterinarian to determine whether the problem is caused by internal factors , such as a nutritional deficiency, kidney failure, or a food allergy; or whether the problem is rooted in external factors , such as parasites or hot spots due to trauma, among others.
Food for dogs with skin problems
Giving your pet food for dogs with skin problems is one of the most recommended solutions when the problem is caused by a food allergy . These foods are made with a higher amount of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. In addition to relieving itchy skin, they provide the hair with the necessary nutrients to keep it strong and shiny—and they also help promote brain development. Omega 3 and 6 acids also help combat excess weight and help properly recover from viral or bacterial infections. You should also keep in mind that food for dogs with skin problems can vary depending on the type of allergy and that these differ from animal to animal. Pets may have allergies or intolerances to the most common proteins and foods such as beef, chicken, pork, wheat, eggs, and dairy. In that case, we will need to look for healthy dog food that does not contain the ingredients that are causing harm.
The choice of food is essential to ensure your dog's well-being. Keep in mind that allergies can also be caused by reactions to the product's chemical components, such as additives and flavorings. In this case, it's best to opt for natural foods. If your dog has grain allergies, you can also find natural varieties such as grain -free foods.
Healthy dog food: nutrients to maintain healthy skin and coat
Although we've already mentioned some of the most recommended ingredients for maintaining healthy skin and coat, in this section we'll delve deeper into them. These are the ingredients that a dog food for dogs with skin and coat problems should contain:
- Fatty acids : Primarily omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These play a key role in hydration and the growth of the skin barrier. They also help keep your dog's coat soft and shiny and relieve itchy skin.
- Quality proteins : Protein isn't everything when it comes to feed, but quality is also important. Generally, proteins should comprise 30% to 35% of the diet for healthy skin and coat, but they must also be of high quality. This will prevent color loss, thinning of the coat, and hair loss.
- Minerals and vitamins : The most recommended minerals for healthy skin and hair are zinc and biotin, as well as vitamin A, B complex, and vitamin C.
Remember that the higher the quality of the food, the better it will generally be for your pet. Therefore, opt for optimal, healthy dog food, such as premium foods.
