Dog skin treatment including dietary supplements may be necessary to prevent, as well as fight, a variety of skin diseases, from mild to severe. The condition of both the skin and coat indicates whether your dog is healthy or sick.
Ideally, your dog's skin should be soft and free of sores, scabs, hot spots and hives. Your dog's coat should be soft and shiny. The right dietary supplements can prevent and alleviate symptoms like severe itching, inflammation, a dull coat and hair loss (which may indicate nutrient deficiencies or a serious illness).
Vitamins and Minerals for Healthy Dog Skin
Here is a list of key vitamins and minerals found in dietary supplements, and how they specifically improve the condition of your dog's skin and coat:
- Vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and hair growth and helps treat sebaceous cysts and bacterial infections
- The B Complex, which together prevent deficiency diseases of the skin by bolstering the immune system
- Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine), which functions as a flea repellent
- Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin), which prevents dandruff
- Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid), which fights skin infections, allergies and inflammation
- Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), which prevents skin allergies
- Vitamin B-9 (Folic Acid), which helps protein metabolism that is in turn necessary for healthy skin and coat.
- Vitamin C, which bolsters immunity to serious illness including cancer that can affect the skin; fights mange; prevents dandruff; supports the production of collagen, a protein necessary for the formation of skin cells; and, serves as an antioxidant which rids the body of toxins that contribute to allergic reactions affecting the skin
- Vitamin E, which heals rashes, eczema and sores; prevents baldness; and, functions as an antioxidant to prevent allergies
- Calcium and phosphorus, which prevent eczema
- Iron, which lessens susceptibility to hookworm infestation that can cause itching and skin lesions
- Manganese, which is also necessary for collagen growth
- Selenium, which prevents allergic reactions and inflammation
- Zinc, which lessens susceptibility to skin infections
Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) Prevent Dog Skin Irritation
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA), which prevent inflammation, drying and flaking of the skin.
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids (Linoleic Acid), which promote healthy skin and coat at the cellular level.
Supplements come in tablets, liquids and powders. Remember: Always consult your vet before giving your dog dietary supplements to prevent any adverse side effects.