When it comes to your dog's health, you depend on visual cues to keep it in tip-top shape. Since it can't outwardly tell you when it is feeling under the weather or battling a health condition, body language can be a great indicator of something wrong. Another good indicator is the state of its skin. What does your dog's skin say about its health? What are some good ways to promote healthy skin in dogs? Let Eye Envy® provide you with some insight!

What Should Healthy Skin Look Like?

Dog's skin should be clear and supple, not bumpy, flaky or greasy. Additionally, it shouldn't have dry skin on its back or any other areas, indications of flea allergy dermatitis, or painful hot spots. Other signs of unhealthy skin are:

• Swelling
• Itching
• Discoloration
• Hair loss
• A foul smell

These skin conditions can be caused by allergic reactions, infections (bacterial and fungal), hormonal imbalances, parasites, nutritional deficiencies and more. Problem skin is more likely to occur during the summer months when heat and sun exposure can be the most extreme.

Skin Condition Care in Dogs

If you notice any changes in your dog's skin, a trip to your veterinarian is in order. A full-body examination along with diagnostics (such as a urinalysis, fecal exam, blood work or skin scrapes) can help determine the underlying cause and whether it's situational or a chronic condition that may need ongoing care.

Dog Skin Care 101

A large part of dog skin care is to keep your dog's skin healthy by incorporating good grooming and care habits. Other ways you can help keep your dog's skin in good condition are:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Ensuring its diet is well-balanced and nutritious
• Protecting your dog from heat and cold
• Drying your dog's skin and hair promptly after baths
• Examining your dog's skin at least once a month

Use a Moisturizing Shampoo

A good moisturizing shampoo can go a long way to keep your dog's skin healthy. Our Eye Envy® Moisturizing Pet Shampoo is gentle and removes dirt, grime and grease effectively. We've enriched our pet shampoo with vegetable-derived glycerin, which draws moisture to the coat and keeps the moisture locked in. The glycerin, along with white vinegar, works as a flea-repellent as well. Bonus: White vinegar is both antibacterial and antimicrobial, which will benefit your dog's skin and coat, resulting in soft, luxurious skin and fur.

Supplements

Some dog owners incorporate omega-3 supplements into their dog's diet to help promote good skin health. The lack of healthy fats in a dog's (and human's!) diet can lead to problems like erythema (skin reddening) with scaling, itchiness and hair loss. Omega-3 supplements minimize collagen damage and suppress inflammatory responses in the skin. Other beneficial skin supplements include vitamin A, zinc and selenium. Talk to your doctor about the specific dosages for your dog.

Flea and Tick Prevention

Because fleas and tick bites can be the basis for poor skin health in dogs, stay on top of your pet's flea and tick treatment.

At Eye Envy, our goal is to keep your pet's health in check. We hope you found this blog post helpful!