Do you have a rotating cast of house guests that never seems to stop coming? In addition to keeping your dog happy with treats and toys, you’re also bound to meet new people at least once a day. With so many visitors, it’s no wonder your pooch is always itching from an increase in fleas or flea bites.
But why is he itching so much? Dogs are excellent indicators of their surroundings, and an increase in activity from other canines will almost certainly have an effect on his furrier friends as well. If these canine guests are making your dog itch, there are a few things you can do to help keep him feeling comfortable.
Want to know the secret to keeping your doggy’s coat healthy? It’s all in the way they walk. If you have a dog with short hair, it doesn’t take long for dirt and other small particles to build up on their paws. When a dog’s skin feels dry, itchy, or flaky, it probably has a lot more to do with their appearance than anything else.
Suffering from dry skin can affect any breed of dog equally. However, there are some breeds that are predisposed to the condition more so than others. Just like humans, dogs can experience various skin conditions as well.
These pet-specific problems can range from minor to serious, depending on the cause and severity of the problem at hand. Here are some causes of skin rash on dog legs you should watch out for:
Bacterial or Fungal Infections
This is a common cause of dry skin and skin infections in dogs. Dogs can be infected with bacteria or yeast that causes skin infections. These infections occur because the top layer of the skin has been damaged or removed.
The outer layer of skin holds the dead cells that protect the inner layer of the skin from bacteria and other debris. When the top layer of skin is damaged, the bacteria can invade and cause a red or white rash. Treatment for bacterial infections include antifungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-yeast medications. Antibiotics should be avoided as it can lead to antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
allergies
Allergies are one of the most common causes of skin issues in dogs. Allergies occur when the dog’s body reacts to an irritant such as pollen, dust mites, dander, chemicals, or drugs. When the dog’s immune system attacks these allergens, it causes allergic reactions.
Some breeds are more prone to allergic reactions than others. It’s important to take your dog to the vet right away if they start scratching or have a rash they think is allergies. The vet can help find out what’s causing their allergies, and they may even be able to help with treatment.
Environment – wind, Humidity, And Temperature Changes
Different parts of your dog’s body experience different levels of humidity and temperature. In areas with high humidity, such as coastal areas or the southwest, the skin tends to be drier. In colder areas, like Canada and the north, the skin tends to be more oily.
When the environment changes, so does the amount of moisture in the dog’s skin. When the dog’s skin feels dry, itchy or flaky, it’s usually a sign that the dog’s skin is too dry. It’s important to moisturize the dog’s skin so they don’t get injured or develop skin conditions.
Some Skin Formula’s For Dogs
Dry Skin Formula
Dry Skin Formula that is. There are several ingredients that can help to keep your dog’s skin hydrated. These ingredients include:
- Cetearyl olivate
- Olivine
- Mango butter
- Grapeseed oil
- Shea butter
- Jojoba oil
- Argan oil Cetearyl olivate is an oil that has been proven to help seal in moisture. It’s a water-based oil that won’t leave a sticky residue behind like many oils do. After you apply cetearyl olivate to your dog, it’s best to let them sit still for a few hours. This allows the oil to absorb into their skin. If dry skin is a daily occurrence, you may want to consider adding a moisturizing oil to their diet.
Rough Skin Formula
Zinc Oxide is a mineral ingredient that can help to prevent and treat skin irritations such as dry skin and wind-chapped lips.
Conclusion
There are many ways to keep your dog’s coat healthy and happy. Feeding your dog a healthy diet, keeping them out of the wind, and getting them a daily bath are just a few ways to keep your dog’s coat healthy and happy. If your dog is suffering from dry skin, try using a moisturizer or using a dog groomer to give your dog a bath.
