“My dog has dry skin! What can I do?” If you’ve ever asked yourself this question, don’t despair. When your dog has dry, itchy skin, he might feel very uncomfortable, but you can do a lot of things to help. Dry skin can be caused by several factors ranging from allergies to weather changes to mites. Here’s a look at what you can do to help ease your pup’s discomfort.

Symptoms of Dry Skin in Dogs

Symptoms of dry skin might not be quite as straightforward as you expect. The telltale signs can include frequent itching or flakes in your dog’s fur, pimples on the skin, fur loss, scabs, or scaling. Your dog might even have skin with a slight odor. If you notice these symptoms, talk with your veterinarian to identify the cause.

Causes of Dry Skin in Dogs

If your dog has dry, itchy skin, several factors may be at play. Sometimes it can be as simple as the change in the weather.Colder weather or lower humidity can trigger dry skin. Even bathing your dog too frequently can be an issue.

Fleas often cause dry, itchy skin too. If you suspect your pup has fleas, try Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor, and don’t forget to treat the yard with a flea product like Adams Yard & Garden Spray.

Parasites like canine scabies, mites, or lice can cause itching.Certain bacteria or fungus might also be the culprit of dry, itchy skin. Some of these may require prescriptions from your veterinarian.

Allergies Can Be a Big Culprit

Allergies, whether to food or other environmental factors, are known to trigger dry or itchy symptoms. The shampoo you use to bathe your dog or even the detergent you use for his blanket might cause allergic reactions. Food allergies, in particular, can turn into itchy, hot spots that become bald patches or lesions over time.

Even if your dog doesn’t have a food allergy, feeding him less nutritious food may trigger skin problems. A diet low in vitamins, proteins, or healthy fatty acids can lead to a few issues.

Dogs may have food sensitivities even if they don’t have food allergies. If your dog has a lot of food sensitivities, consider AvoDerm’s dry food that’s specially formulated for sensitive stomachs. The Duck Recipe and Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe can be great options. These varieties are grain-free and made with omega-rich avocados to promote healthy skin.

How to Help Your Dog’s Skin

You can do a lot to help your dog have healthy skin. If you think your pup has an allergy to a food or product, remove it to see if the symptoms subside.

You can also brush your dog regularly. This can help remove pollen from the fur that might cause issues. Keep the temperature in your home at a comfortable level that’s neither too hot nor too cold.

A diet rich in healthy fats, zinc, antioxidants, and vitamins can also help your dog maintain a healthy coat and skin. Avocados, which have healthy fats, vitamins, and protein, are a featured ingredient in AvoDerm’s food for dogs.

It can be tough to see your sweet dog struggle with dry, itchy skin. Often, allergies, weather changes, or fleas are to blame. Chat with your vet about your options. With some tender loving care and a little research, your dog will feel better soon.