The condition of a dog's coat is often an indicator of their general wellbeing, and a thin, dry or scruffy coat can be the first physical sign of poor health. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy coat is particularly important during the winter, when they need their thick, strong coat to help them cope with the cold.
There are a number of ways you can look after your dog's coat, and this article will explore some of the best treatments and methods to use.
A dog's diet can have a major influence on the health of their coat. While it's true that dogs, with their wild scavenger instincts, are able to eat just about anything, it is always best to stick to a diet that gives them a good balance of nutrients to keep them in the best shape possible. There is a huge amount of information online and in books on dietary requirements for different dog breeds, and your vet will also be able to offer you some good advice on this subject.
Exercise is also crucial to keeping your dog healthy and ensuring their coat stays in good condition. Dogs that are stressed or bored are prone to scratch or chew themselves, so it is important that they have the opportunity to burn of their excess energy. Make sure they get out the house frequently and have a regular exercise regime, and leave some chewy toys around to keep them occupied when they are at home.
Another important part of maintaining your dog's coat, and one which can often be neglected, is grooming. A good idea is to bathe your dog with a herbal shampoo designed specifically for dogs. A shampoo containing Pennyroyal extract (Mentha Pulegium) is ideal because it will leave the coat clean and will also repel fleas and mites. Remember never to use human shampoo because the PH of a dog's skin will be different to ours. Brushing your dog will also be a major help, as this will remove dead skin and distribute the natural oils in his fur.
There are a number of herbal supplements and treatments that can be given to dogs as part of their daily diet, and the choice of which one you should use will depend on the type of dog you have. Kelp seaweed is a good treatment for dogs experiencing poor hair growth, and though it should be used sparingly in the summer, it is ideal to give during the winter months to improve coat growth. Evening primrose oil is another good herbal supplement that can be added to food, and will help to reduce shedding and promote a long healthy coat.
In summary, any signs of a dry, scruffy or patchy coat need to be treated with concern, as they may be symptomatic of broader health problems your dog is experiencing. A good exercise regime, regular grooming and balanced diet should generally be enough to keep your dog's coat thick and silky, and herbal supplements can also be very helpful in this regard.
Dorwest is the UK's leading supplier of herbal remedies for dogs. For more information on canine supplements and other coat condition treatments, visit the Dorwest Herbs website.
