Skin Health In Dogs

Unfortunately, skin problems are common in our furry friends. They deal with a lot – dust, chemicals, shampoos, sprays, bugs, infections, and other environmental problems.

Food is also a huge issue. What goes into the body makes the body react, for better or worse.

Aside from itching and licking, dogs with skin issues can also experience fur loss, sores, thickened skin, changes in color or texture of skin, ear infections, paw licking and other symptoms.

Proper diagnosis is important to determine the root cause of skin issues. For example, is it environmental, seasonal, bacterial, viral, fungal. diet related, etc.? Hopefully, your vet can diagnose the cause. If there is a chemical, bug or infection that is causing the problem, that will need to be fixed first or alongside my diet plans.

One thing to keep in mind: If your dog is experiencing skin issues AND gastrointestinal issues at the same time, it is most likely food related.

Did you know certain additives and chemicals in processed foods are implicated in allergy and skin issue cases? They should be avoided.

They include:

• azo and non-azo dyes
• guar gum
• sodium nitrate
• sodium bisulfate
• sodium glutamate
• butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)
• propylene glycol
• sodium alginate

These are just a few examples. Unfortunately, pet foods may contain any of these ingredients.

Whatever the cause, skin issues mean inflammation, and my diets focus on anti-inflammatory ingredients that will help support the entire body. This includes the largest organ in the body – the skin.

When you are ready to start feeding a truly nourishing homemade diet, please come to me. It’s easier than you think, and can reap some serious health benefits, long and short term.

Enjoy… Sarah

PS – See my related article about allergies and sensitivities.

Sarah Whitman, MS (Holistic Nutrition)
Founder, Dog Food Coach
Certified Pet Nutrition Coach & Pet Therapeutic Nutrition Coach (North American Veterinary Community)
Pet Master Herbalist (exp. 2023)
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