Updated October 2019
The condition of your dog's coat is a good indicator of his or her health. Dog coat problems can be signs of an allergy, parasitic infection, or other serious underlying health condition. In this article we break down everything you need to know about dog coat health: what a healthy dog coat should look and feel like, signs and potential factors behind an unhealthy dog coat, and how to best promote a healthy dog coat in your four-legged best friend.
Although dog coats vary widely in type and texture across dog breeds, the characteristics of a healthy dog coat are generally the same across every pup. A healthy dog coat is shiny and smooth. The fur or hair should be soft and glossy without being greasy.
Signs of an unhealthy dog coat include dog hair or fur that grows increasingly dull, faded, and limp. The coat may become increasingly dry, brittle, and coarse. The changes in your dog's coat may not happen overnight but occur over time. Old age aside, such symptoms can be a sign of malnutrition, allergy, illness, parasites, or other health problems. For these reasons, it is important to contact your vet as soon as you notice any changes in coat health.
"You are what you eat" holds true for humans and dogs alike. Genetics aside, diet is the #1 external factor affecting dog coat health.
A balanced diet rich in protein, essential fatty acids (omega-3s, omega-6s), and carbohydrates is key for dog skin and coat health. If you already use a high quality dog food, consider these add-ons:
LEARN MORE: HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST DOG FOOD
If your dog has excessive shedding, sudden or unusual hair loss (i.e. bald spots), or shows other signs of ailing coat health, please arrange a wellness appointment with your veterinarian.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
We (Mike and Steph) started Django Dog Blog in 2016 to make it easier for other loving dog parents to travel and adventure with their four-legged family. Since then, our blog content has expanded to address important dog health topics and highlight high-quality and modern pet products we love.
We have also found countless other informative, heartwarming, and funny dog lifestyle blogs throughout the years! In this Django Dog Blog, we have rounded up our 15 favorite dog blogs on the internet today.
Creating a dog-friendly home involves considering all aspects of your space to make it comfortable for your little friend, from the right furniture to your dog's personal space to even the right front entrance.
Correctly built exterior house doors can significantly improve your pet's safety and comfort, making entering and exiting the house easier. This DJANGO Dog Blog article discusses the significance of pet-friendly front entries, factors to consider when selecting one, and popular door types suitable for our furry companions.
Over the past several years, we (DJANGO) have sold thousands and thousands of our high quality Adventure Harnesses to pet lovers around the world. This 5-star rated and best selling DJANGO harness is loved for its comfort, durability, and lightweight and slender body.
While we originally designed this harness for small and medium sized dogs, we've noticed an ever-growing number of adventure cat owners purchasing, loving, and recommending DJANGO harnesses for outdoor-loving cats!
Cat owners have used DJANGO Adventure Harnesses for road trips, hiking expeditions, and even going to the vet. Are you looking for an escape-proof harness for your cat? Here is why DJANGO's Adventure Harness is quickly becoming the best travel harness for cats.
Dog harness vest
September 27, 2022
Article is good. Thanks for sharing