Dog’s skin has its ways of keeping itself hydrated. It produces natural oils that keep it protected and moisturized, but your dog isn’t always 100% safe and invincible. Dry weather and medical conditions can make your dog’s skin dry and flaky, and that’s when it is time to take steps toward hydration. Here are some easy ways to keep your dog healthy and happy.
However paradoxical this may sound, bathing your dog too often can dry out his skin. Bathe your pooch only when you need to, because they don’t need frequent bathing like us humans. Your dog only needs it every two or three months, or once a month at the most.
Bathing too often prevents his body’s natural oils to generate, spread through the coat and protect the skin. If you notice that your dog’s skin is dry or flaky even though you don’t bathe him too often, use a canine moisturizing shampoo to hydrate it.
If possible, run a humidifying apparatus in your home to keep the dry air away. If the air is dry, it can be responsible for your dog’s dry skin.
Sometimes it’s the shampoo. Throw away the shampoo you’re currently using and switch to hypo-allergenic one. Your dog might be experiencing an allergic reaction to the shampoo you are using at the moment.
It is always a good idea to pay a visit to your vet.
These shampoos contain medication that treats skin conditions like dermatitis, or they may simply contain chemicals like salicylic acid which keep the skin moisturized.
Your dog’s paws are always cute, but they can also get dry and flaky, or even crack. Consult your veterinarian about moisturizers for your dog’s paw pads. Try wiping your dog’s paws with a disposable, medicated moisturizing pad which will keep them hydrated and maintain their cuteness.