How to Treat Dog Dandruff at Home

One of the most common reasons for a dog to have dandruff is from inadequate care of their fur, which results in the accumulation of dead skin cells. It is important to note that you should brush your dog's coat frequently i.e. daily or every other day in the case of long-haired dogs, and a few times a week if it is short. This will help keep their coat clean and will also prevent the formation of dandruff.

Baths are also important, whilst respecting the frequency depending on their hair type. That way, their fur is kept sufficiently clean and in good condition.

Another frequent cause of dandruff in dogs is skin dryness due to a lack of nutrients and oils in their diet. Following a diet comprising of only dry food, or a poor quality diet, can also cause your dog to suffer from dandruff, so it's recommended that you don't just choose quality food containing vitamins and nutrients, but that you also give your animal fresh water daily and wet food like canned food occasionally. This way you can guarantee moisture in their skin.

Can you not stand your home smelling of your dog? If you bath your pet too often, you could be causing their dandruff. Excessive washing causes dry skin which can cause dandruff and dermis irritation. Using a shampoo or soap to bath your dog which is meant for humans can also cause dandruff.

Other common causes of dandruff in dogs are:

• Excessive anxiety which manifests itself in skin conditions.
• Hormonal problems.
• Weakened immune system caused by the presence of parasites like fleas and ticks.
• Presence of scabies.

Considering all the factors involved in the occurrence of this condition, recommendations to treat dog dandruff at home include:

• Start by bathing your animal in lukewarm water, never hot water. Massage their skin well to stimulate circulation and then dry their coat properly to avoid the appearance of fungal growth and bad smells. If you need help with figuring out the frequency of bathing, we invite you to read our article on how to bathe your dog at home.
• Always use a special dog shampoo, preferably one suitable for sensitive skin, so you can give them the care they deserve.
• Brush your dog's coat regularly. This will also help to ensure that your animal does not have ticks or fleas.
• Make sure you feed your dog with quality food that contains oils and vitamins, or else change it for a better type of food. It is also important you make your dog drink water daily by giving them fresh, clean water. You should also offer them canned food which contains more moisture.
• Do not bath them excessively unless your dog is really dirty or their skin becomes coated with a toxic substance.
• Remember to exercise your pet daily so they properly burn off their energy, which reduces the possibility of them suffering from anxiety.

If you see your dog carries on suffering from dandruff despite following these recommendations, it is essential that you take them to the vet as it could relate to hormonal changes or another condition. Obtaining a specialist's opinion is very important for ensuring the health of your pet.

If you want to read similar articles to How to Treat Dog Dandruff at Home, we recommend you visit our Pets category.