My dog has dandruff
You can recognize dandruff when there are dry or greasy flakes on a dog’s skin. The cause is usually a disruption in sebum production or a lack of essential fatty acids in the diet. Skin flakes are not always dandruff; they can also result from mange, a yeast or fungal infection, or a hormonal imbalance. Before treating dandruff, make sure that none of these other causes is responsible.
Causes of dandruff in dogs
- A diet lacking omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, protein, or vitamin A to support the skin
- Environmental factors such as shedding or temperature changes
- Infections caused by lice or mites.
Symptoms of dandruff in dogs
Dandruff is common in puppies with medium- to long-length coats. If your dog has dandruff, they may scratch or bite themselves regularly. White flakes may also be visible in their coat and/or bed. Depending on how severe the dandruff and its cause are, crusts, hair loss, and irregular bald patches may also appear on the dog.
Treatment of dandruff in dogs
There are several things you can do to help your dog get rid of dandruff, such as:
- Give them food containing nutrients that are good for the skin and coat.
- Use a special dog shampoo.
- Keep the environment at a suitable temperature.
- Discuss a specific diet with your vet.
- Make sure your dog gets enough water.
