Dog Skin Care: Simple Steps to a Healthy Coat

Your dog’s skin says a lot about their health. It shows up as a shiny coat, normal shedding, and no constant scratching. Follow easy daily habits and you’ll avoid most common skin problems—and catch the serious ones early.

Daily Care & Baths

Brush your dog regularly. Short-haired dogs do well with a rubber brush once or twice a week; long-haired dogs need daily attention to prevent mats that trap moisture and cause irritation. Brushing spreads natural oils and improves circulation.

Bathe only when needed. For most dogs, every 4–8 weeks is enough. Overbathing removes oils and dries skin. Use a dog-formulated shampoo with gentle ingredients—oatmeal, glycerin, or hypoallergenic formulas work well. Avoid human shampoos and strong detergents; dog skin has a different pH and harsher products strip its protective layer.

If your dog gets itchy or has greasy fur, try an oatmeal or medicated shampoo recommended by your vet. For quick relief between washes, a damp cloth or vet-approved spray can clean paws and folds without a full bath.

Keep ears and paws dry. Check ears weekly for redness, odor, or wax build-up. Dry paws after walks—mud and wet fur cause infections between toes.

Nutrition, Prevention & When to Call the Vet

What your dog eats affects skin fast. A balanced diet with good protein and some omega-3 fats helps reduce inflammation and improves coat shine. Fish oil or omega-3 supplements can help—but ask your vet for a dose based on your dog’s weight.

Control parasites. Fleas, ticks, and mites cause intense itching and hot spots. Use vet-recommended flea and tick prevention year-round in risky areas. If your dog chews or has red bumps after a flea bite, treat the infestation quickly to avoid secondary infections.

Allergies are common. Signs include constant licking of paws, rubbing face, recurring ear infections, or patchy hair loss. Seasonal or food allergies can look the same. If symptoms persist for more than a week or two, get a vet check—early treatment stops skin from getting worse.

Watch for these red flags: open sores, spreading hair loss, lumps under the skin, fever, or lethargy. These need prompt veterinary care. Minor dryness and dandruff can often be fixed with diet and a change in grooming routine; deep redness, pain, or pus require a vet visit.

Small extras help: trim hair around the eyes and sanitary areas, use dog-safe sunscreen on thin-coated spots, and wash bedding weekly. With consistent care and attention to changes, you’ll keep your dog comfortable and their skin healthy.