Your Dog’s Skin & Coat System

Did you know that skin and/or coat problems are the number one medical reason owners take their dogs to the veterinarian? Perhaps that is because the skin is the largest and most exposed organ a dog has, or maybe it’s because dermatitis and hair coat problems are so visible and obvious. While external causes (infections, parasites, allergies and injuries) are the most common causes of skin and coat-related problems, a small percentage can originate from the internal causes such as poor nutrition, food allergies, hormonal imbalances, and disease in other body systems.

Of the three key protective systems (the immune system, digestive system and skin & coat system), the skin and coat are your dog’s first line of defense against harmful bacterium, external parasites, UV light, injury and the elements. Healthy skin is soft, pliable and protects the underlying tissues from trauma while at the same time resisting infections. In addition, healthy skin will heal faster from cuts, scratches and infections.

The hair coat provides a layer of protection for the skin. Hairs grow out of a hair follicle that is deeply embedded in the skin. Deep within the follicle at the base is where the hairs grow and the hair shaft attaches (also known as the ‘root’). Each hair follicle also contains sebaceous glands responsible for the production of the oils and waxes that prevent dryness and produce a shiny, glossy coat.

In most breeds, the hair grows in cycles. There will be a cycle of hair growth, followed by a resting stage, then that hair will die, fall out and the process repeats. Dead hairs are periodically shed either individually or in clumps as new hairs are replenished. These growth and shedding cycles are determined by several factors including genetics, time of year, various hormones and nutritional plane.

Coat care basics include regular coat inspections, brushing and/or combing, bathing with the right products and dietary formulation. Since hair is primarily made up of protein, diet plays an important role in the quality of hair and in the shed cycle. In addition to proteins (amino acids), balanced Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids are very important nutrients for healthy skin and coats. High quality fatty acids prevent dry skin and coat and promote a thick, healthy, glossy coat. Other important nutrients for healthy skin and coat include vitamins (especially vitamin A) and minerals including copper and zinc.

Brushing and grooming your pet is an excellent way to maintain a healthy skin and coat. Routine brushing and/or combing (depending on the hair coat length and type – short coats are best brushed, while long coats need a comb) eliminates tangles, removes those dead hairs and gives you an opportunity to carefully examine the skin and coat for any concealed problems: fleas, ticks, lumps, sores or any bald spots.

Done properly, routine grooming can be a way for you to bond with your pet and establish a positive relationship. As with brushing the teeth and trimming the nails, I suggest you start the grooming process at an early age, be gentle, keep each session short, and reward your pet with praise and a treat when finished. However, it is worth noting that some owners find grooming to be a real ordeal neither human nor dog enjoys. In these cases, sometimes grooming best left to the experts… after struggling with my own dog over this particular task, I decided to go that route and happily found a super groomer for my dog.

Bathing is an important part of skin and coat care. But excessive bathing and harsh shampoos strip away vital protective oils and waxes from the sebaceous glands, leaving the skin and coat very dull and dry. May owners react to this dry skin by giving another bath, which can lead to a vicious cycle of more frequent bathing and ever-drier skin.

When selecting shampoos and conditioners only use products specifically made for dogs and avoid any over the counter “fix-all” medicated shampoos. A word of caution: Keep the shampoo and rinse water out of your dog’s eyes and ears or you may have a serious problem requiring medical treatment.

So what can you do to help maintain a healthy skin and hair coat in your pet?

• Select a breed of dog that matches your willingness to groom and fits your “shedding hair in the house” tolerance level.
• Groom your pet often (or find someone who will).
• Bathe your pet only when necessary, using recommended shampoos and conditioners.
• Be a more informed and observant care giver. See your veterinarian at the first sign of a skin or coat problem. Remember that early detection and appropriate treatment of skin and coat problems are keys to rapid healing.
• Feed a premium quality diet specifically formulated to maintain a healthy skin and hair coat.
• For your dog's comfort and for ease of examination for fleas and ticks, consider a “summer” clip for your long or thick coated pet(s).