The condition of your dog’s coat and skin is oftentimes a good indicator of overall health. Most dogs should have a shiny, smooth coat of fur. Make sure you know what your dog’s coat should look like ideally, and take these steps from your Hutchinson Island veterinarian to keep your dog’s coat in great condition.

Diet

We don’t think of food as the first thing to influence a dog’s coat of fur, but it is in fact one of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy coat. Feed your dog a top-quality food with the right proportions of protein, carbs, vitamins, minerals, and fats. Your dog’s skin will benefit from a good diet, and the coat will look and feel great in turn. Ask your vet for his or her recommendation—remember as well that puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and certain breeds might require different foods than others.

Grooming

Groom your dog carefully at least once a week to keep his coat fresh and healthy. It will remove any foreign objects, burrs, seeds, or tangles, as well as get rid of excess loose hair and keep it off of your furniture. Combing also helps spread natural skin oils throughout the coat, giving it a healthy sheen. Consult your vet on the type of brush and proper procedure for grooming your pet.

Bathing

Ask your veterinarian how often you should bathe your dog. Regular baths will help remove dirt and keep the fur and skin clean. Don’t bathe your pet too much, though—too many baths can actually remove natural skin oils and lead to a dry, itchy coat. Be sure to use warm water and a shampoo specially formulated for dogs.

Regular Check-Ups

Regular veterinary check-ups will ensure your dog’s skin and fur—as well as his overall health—are maintained. Set up an appointment with your Hutchinson Island veterinarian’s office today!