Can dogs get dandruff? Yes, dogs, just like us humans, are susceptible to this skin condition. There are many possible causes that can cause distress to the dog as well as the owner.
Dogs, just like people, can get dandruff — which is an annoying, uncomfortable skin condition. Dandruff is dry flaky skin. It’s made up of dead skin cells that fall from the skin. When it clumps together, it looks like white flakes. Simple things such as daily brushing, a balanced diet and dietary supplements can go a long way to sorting out the problem.
Here are 6 main causes of dandruff in dogs:
1. Cheyletiella mites – Also called “walking dandruff”, these are white mites that make themselves comfortable in a dog’s skin and coat while they lay eggs. The result is dryness, itching and skin infection. These mites are contagious, and your dog can get them during a visit to the vet, a play in the park, living in a commercial dog kennel, meeting other dogs etc.
2. Allergies - Common allergens range from dust and pollens to household cleaners to certain foods. Be careful what household cleaners you use. Try changing cleaners if possible. Certain food items can also cause skin reactions.
3. Existing Skin Infections - If your dog has an underlying skin condition, it could affect his whole body instead of a localized area.
4. Low Humidity (or Dry Weather) - If you live in a dry area, the air in your home might be stripping your dog’s skin of moisture, which means he will scratch frequently. This scratching will only worsen existing skin conditions.
5. Poor Diet - If your dog isn’t getting enough water to drink or enough vitamins, food supplements, minerals and fat from his food, his coat will probably suffer. The result is dryness, flaking, itchiness and dandruff.
6. Frequent Bathing – Dogs don’t need very frequent bathing, and many commercial dog shampoos make their skin very dry, causing itching and flaky skin which can be the cause for dandruff. Too much swimming in chlorine treated water or sea water can also cause dandruff. (Remember : DO NOT use human dandruff shampoo on your dog)
Prevention
Prevention includes taking into consideration all the above six points. In addition regular brushing helps reduce dandruff and hair falls all over the house. Ensure your dog has a good diet, avoid salts, sugar, any kind of chocolate and alcohol based products. Include Omega-3 fatty acid in your dog’s diet.
Use of specialized shampoo to hydrate and condition his coat and one that kills parasites is essential. Some parasites are so small that you would need a visit to the vet for a thorough check up.
About Ryder Kennel
Ryder Kennel is one of India’s leading kennels, owning, breeding and showing top quality Rottweiler’s and Labrador Retrievers. With over 2 decades of experience owning, showing and breeding Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Boxers and English Cocker Spaniels, Ryder Kennel is the ONLY kennel in India that has a dedicated team of canine nutritionists, veterinarians and canine health and behavioral experts.
Top show quality puppies from the best lines in the world are available. Send in your questions about your dog and our team would be glad to assist.
Follow us on Facebook by clicking here.
Here are 6 main causes of dandruff in dogs:
1. Cheyletiella mites – Also called “walking dandruff”, these are white mites that make themselves comfortable in a dog’s skin and coat while they lay eggs. The result is dryness, itching and skin infection. These mites are contagious, and your dog can get them during a visit to the vet, a play in the park, living in a commercial dog kennel, meeting other dogs etc.
2. Allergies - Common allergens range from dust and pollens to household cleaners to certain foods. Be careful what household cleaners you use. Try changing cleaners if possible. Certain food items can also cause skin reactions.
3. Existing Skin Infections - If your dog has an underlying skin condition, it could affect his whole body instead of a localized area.
4. Low Humidity (or Dry Weather) - If you live in a dry area, the air in your home might be stripping your dog’s skin of moisture, which means he will scratch frequently. This scratching will only worsen existing skin conditions.
5. Poor Diet - If your dog isn’t getting enough water to drink or enough vitamins, food supplements, minerals and fat from his food, his coat will probably suffer. The result is dryness, flaking, itchiness and dandruff.
6. Frequent Bathing – Dogs don’t need very frequent bathing, and many commercial dog shampoos make their skin very dry, causing itching and flaky skin which can be the cause for dandruff. Too much swimming in chlorine treated water or sea water can also cause dandruff. (Remember : DO NOT use human dandruff shampoo on your dog)
Prevention
Prevention includes taking into consideration all the above six points. In addition regular brushing helps reduce dandruff and hair falls all over the house. Ensure your dog has a good diet, avoid salts, sugar, any kind of chocolate and alcohol based products. Include Omega-3 fatty acid in your dog’s diet.
Use of specialized shampoo to hydrate and condition his coat and one that kills parasites is essential. Some parasites are so small that you would need a visit to the vet for a thorough check up.
About Ryder Kennel
Ryder Kennel is one of India’s leading kennels, owning, breeding and showing top quality Rottweiler’s and Labrador Retrievers. With over 2 decades of experience owning, showing and breeding Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Boxers and English Cocker Spaniels, Ryder Kennel is the ONLY kennel in India that has a dedicated team of canine nutritionists, veterinarians and canine health and behavioral experts.
Top show quality puppies from the best lines in the world are available. Send in your questions about your dog and our team would be glad to assist.
Follow us on Facebook by clicking here.
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