Free shipping on orders over €15

How diet influences our dog's hair and skin

Cómo influye la alimentación en el pelo y la piel de nuestro perro

Lobo Azul |

Food is one of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy coat and skin in dogs . In this article you will learn about some of the most essential elements to take into account, as well as some tips to better take care of your health and appearance.

What the dog's coat should be like

To begin with, it must be kept in mind that the characteristics of the hair are different according to the different existing dog breeds. Remember that there are more than 300 different breeds currently classified and each one requires different needs. What the dog's coat should be like For example, with respect to Schnanuzers, sometimes there are owners who strive to ensure that their dog has soft fur and even believe that if it is hard and bushy it is a sign that something is wrong. But no, on the contrary, this is the natural characteristic of its coat, which is why, from the outset, it is recommended to verify the characteristics of the coat within the racial norm of your pet and, although the owner's expectation is also valid, it is always They must also consider their natural characteristics. However, there are some elements that must be present in every dog , regardless of its breed. For example, if your pet's hair breaks easily, falls out excessively, or appears too dry and rough, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Likewise, if their skin begins to peel or there is abundant dandruff, it is best to consult your veterinarian, as it could also be a symptom of some disease. the dog's hair If you don't have much experience with pets and you notice that your dog is starting to shed its coat, don't be too worried either, dogs normally shed at least two copious amounts of hair per year.

Important elements to care for the dog's hair and skin

To take care of the appearance of your hair, the most important element to take care of is your diet. Some time ago the use of nutritional supplements became almost a fashion, however, with the quality of today's foods, this practice has has been totally contraindicated, since a quality food can provide all the necessary nutrients that your pet needs. Supplements are only recommended for cases where your dog has a condition and a specific component needs to be reinforced, although this is something that only your veterinarian can prescribe .

Proteins

Almost a third of the protein your dog consumes goes directly to the skin and coat. For this reason, proteins are one of the primary factors to take into account, since they are an essential component to keep them healthy and strong. It is not only important that it contains quality proteins, but you should also check its bioavailability , that is, the percentage that is capable of reaching the bloodstream. Important elements to care for the dog's hair and skin

Fatty acids

In order to encourage a shiny image of your pet's coat, fatty acids are also an important factor, particularly those rich in omega 3 and biotin , since these components allow the hair follicle to be strengthened, which will generate better oxygenation and consequently a coat with greater shine and resistance. Fatty acids are also a factor in taking care of our pet's skin, as they will help maintain a more elastic dermis, which is an important factor in avoiding irritation. These types of fats also have an anti-inflammatory effect, which is very helpful in avoiding itching, among other allergic conditions that can cause damage to your skin. Food for a good coat

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates also play an important role in a dog's diet. While it is true that some poor quality foods unnecessarily increase this proportion to save costs, it is also important to consider that its deficiency can cause proteins to be absorbed in the form of glucose, instead of fulfilling their main function to promote metabolism. and strengthen your pet's lean tissues. Likewise, they are of great value to keep your glycemic index balanced, as well as to promote your glycogen reserves, something that is essential to provide energy to your muscles.

Antioxidants

Also remember that, just like in humans, free radicals are a factor that accelerates aging in dogs. In this sense, a sufficient intake of antioxidants will protect cell membranes, which will allow maintaining a healthy coat and skin for longer. Likewise, this is a factor to counteract the presence of toxins, which are often the factor that counteracts vitality and generates skin conditions in dogs. Caring for your dog's hair with good nutrition

Minerals

There are various minerals that are directly related to dogs' coats. One of the most important is zinc . Zinc is important to give greater shine and color to hair. Likewise, its deficiency is also a factor in generating scabby areas on the skin, and it can also produce coarse hair. Another important element is biotin , which also considerably reduces skin peeling, in addition to improving the natural barrier that this organ has. Remember that the skin is the largest organ of the animal and requires important care.

Vitamins

In addition to regulating multiple functions of the body, vitamins A, B, C and E are very important to take care of the health of dogs' skin. In this regard, there are foods with improved bioavailability of this type of nutrients, which translates into better health for your pet.

Other factors

Finally, we must also consider that brushing your pet is also essential. If your pet has very long hair, this is recommended daily if possible, although generally doing it 3 days a week will be enough to maintain the vitality of its coat. . Brushing your pet The use of a correct soap, free of chemical agents that can inflame or damage the skin, is also important. In fact, there are currently naturopathic alternatives that contain vitamins and minerals that will be beneficial for your pet. Caring for your dog's hair You just have to remember that bathing is recommended at intervals of at least 4 weeks. If you have any questions, you can consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatment based on the breed of your pet. Other dog food articles that may interest you:
Previous Next