Say goodbye to your dog’s dull and coarse hair. With these nine tips you will keep your dog’s fur looking silky and lavish at all times, making it easier for you to run your fingers through it without encountering matted and lifeless fur.
#1. Feed Your Dog Quality Food
For your dog’s coat to be glossy and healthy, you need to feed them the right food with the right nutrients. Low-quality food or improperly balanced homemade dog food will cause your pet to lack the nutrients he or she needs and this will reflect in their coat. Young dogs that have been on low-fat diets typically develop coarse hair and sometimes have skin lesions that cause irritation.
#2. Pack on the Omega-6
Omega-6 fatty acids are vital to keeping your pup’s coat nice and shiny. High-quality dog foods should contain this ingredient if it is stored correctly. Leaving dog food open and exposed to outside air will oxidize the fatty acids and make them in effective. You can also add a spoonful of sunflower oil to their meals to supplement their diet. The oil must be fresh though.
#3. Bring on the Omega-3, too
Omega-3 fatty acids can aid with skin disorders your fur baby may have. Flaxseed oil or fish oil are great sources for Omega-3 fatty acids. These oils must be fresh to work. The affect of these fatty acids won’t take place immediately – it should take around 6 week’s for your dog’s skin and coat to be healthier. Make sure to give your dog Omega-3 fatty acid supplements in moderation because too much could give them an upset stomach.
#4. Give Them High-Grade Treats
If you don’t want to give your dog oils, try feeding them high-quality treats as small rewards throughout the day. Look for treats that have natural, healthy ingredients and supplements that will make your dog’s hair look glossy and shiny. For your dog’s health, make sure you are reading the labels on the food and treats you are giving them – you want to make sure you are feeding your dog only the best ingredients.
#5. Feed Your Dog Herbal Supplements
You can make your dog’s coat soft, shiny and healthy by feeding them herbal supplements such as horsetail, which is high in silica and helps maintain a healthy coat, skin and bones. Spirulina has plenty of vitamin B and protein as well. If you are looking to start feeding your dog herbal supplements, consult your veterinarian on what dosage is safe.
#6. Brush Regularly
How often do you brush your dog’s coat? You should be brushing your dog’s hair on a regular basis to increase the production of skin oils and to remove dead hair and skin, energizing the skin and promoting the hair follicles’ growth.
#7. Bathe Your Dog At Least Once a Month
You should give your dog a bath at least once a month, but ideally once a week. You want to keep your dog clean, but resist bathing them too often, as too much bathing can strip the skin of natural oils that keep the coat shiny. Use a moisturizing shampoo and organic conditioner to prevent skin irritation. Products that have vitamin E will be soothing for your dog’s hair and skin.
#8. Use Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can either be used internally or externally. It will make your dog’s coat shinier, will help fight infections and moisturize dry skin. You can massage your dog’s fur with coconut oil for a few minutes after a bath to lock in the moisture. Another option is to add in a few drops to the shampoo. Give your dog a teaspoon of coconut oil a day with their food to also enhance the coat’s look and feel and promote healthy digestion.
#9. Try an Oatmeal Bath
Have you noticed your dog constantly scratching? Giving them an oatmeal bath can help sooth the skin and fur to prevent them from scratching themselves and losing the shine in their coat. All it takes is finely ground oatmeal in a tub of warm water for 5-10 minutes and your dog will feel relaxed and won’t itch.
Another great way to keep your dog’s coat looking healthy and beautiful is to have them groomed. Check out our blog on why grooming is good for your dog and make sure to contact us to set up an appointment at Bubbles Pet Spa. We promise your dog will love it!