Poor coat condition in dogs: what causes it, and what can you do about it?
A poor coat in dogs can have various causes. After all, a dog's health is often reflected in its coat. The coat is the body's largest organ, and if something is wrong with it, this is immediately visible. A healthy coat is full and shiny. However, if you notice that this is no longer the case and your dog is suffering from one or more of the symptoms below, it is high time to visit the vet.
The symptoms of a poor coat in dogs
There are several symptoms that can indicate a poor coat in dogs. In most cases, it is more than just a dull coat, and the dog also suffers from one or more of the following symptoms:
- Itching (recognisable by excessive scratching, licking and/or biting)
- Bald patches
- Skin rash/red skin
- Flaky skin
- Smelly skin
- Excessive hair loss
- Lumps and scabs on the skin
What are the causes of a poor coat, and what can you do yourself?
There are various causes that can lead to your dog developing a poor coat. We will discuss them one by one below and explain what you can do yourself to combat these causes of a poor coat. If the tips do not help enough, pay a visit to the vet.
Allergies
Both environmental allergies and food allergies can result in unpleasant skin and/or coat problems. This is because skin and/or coat problems are among the many symptoms of an (food) allergy. Does your dog suffer from a food allergy? Try to find out what the animal is allergic to and avoid these ingredients in its food.
When your loyal four-legged friend suffers from an environmental allergy, it is more difficult to combat the symptoms. In this case, contact your vet.
Washing a dog too often
A dog's coat maintains its own balance. This means that a dog does not need to be washed regularly. If you do wash it regularly, you risk washing away the protective layer from both the skin and the coat. As a result, they are no longer water-repellent and become much more susceptible to parasites and infections. Only wash your dog when it is really necessary. Always use a special dog shampoo, available from your vet or pet shop. Never use human shampoo. It can irritate the dog's skin and make the coat dull.
Poor-quality food
Many coat problems can be traced back to poor-quality food. If a dog does not receive the right food and therefore does not get enough nutrients, vitamins and minerals, this is bad for the animal's health. This often first becomes apparent in the coat. Therefore, always give your dog high-quality food. In addition, adding essential fatty acids (such as fish oil) daily can support the skin and coat.
Parasites
Parasites are very often the cause of a poor coat in dogs. Unwanted guests such as fleas, mites, lice and fungi find your loyal four-legged friend's coat a true paradise and will do everything they can to settle comfortably in it. This causes a great deal of itching, making the dog scratch almost continuously. This in turn leads to bald patches, skin inflammation and much more. Therefore, make sure your dog receives effective flea treatment. If you think your dog is suffering from mange or a fungal infection, contact your vet.
The temperature in the home
The temperature we find comfortable in the home and what is comfortable for dogs are worlds apart. The temperature indoors is often too warm and too dry for a dog, especially in winter. This can cause problems particularly if the home has underfloor heating. Therefore, make sure your dog has a cool place to lie that is only moderately lit.
Incorrect coat care
Every dog breed has a different coat, and each coat requires different care. Some coats need to be brushed or trimmed more often than others. Breed associations and grooming salons can advise you on how and with which brushes your dog's breed coat can best be cared for.
Hormones
The body of every living creature produces hormones, and a dog's body is no exception. If a dog suffers from stress or a particular illness (such as Cushing's disease), its hormone balance can become disrupted. As a result, the dog may lose more hair and develop bald patches. Castration or spaying can also alter the dog's hormone balance, which can change the coat's texture. In such cases, always consult your vet.
