Dog keeps scratching: Understanding pet skin and coat problems

Owners, let's test your knowledge about your furry friend's fur! Which of the following statements is correct?

1. Dogs in the wild never bathed naturally, so household dogs don't need to bathe either.

2. Frequent bathing will cause a dog's skin to lack oil and become drier.

3. My darling doesn't smell yet, so there's no need to bathe him. I'll wait a few more days.

4. It's normal for dogs to scratch a lot. If there are no parasites or fleas, just ignore it.

5. If a dog's skin is dry, itchy, red, and swollen, it must be a skin condition. Buying some topical products from a pet store will fix it. If not, see a vet for some remedies.

6. It must be a food allergy causing the constant scratching. It's time to change food and add supplements.

All of the above are incorrect! Let's learn about pet skin and coat issues! 

Suggested ways to care for your dog's coat are as follows:

• Choose the right pet shampoo

  You must use an extremely hypoallergenic pet shampoo for bathing your dog. Hypoallergenic shampoo can prevent allergic reactions that may occur if the bathing cycle is not suitable for the dog.
  

• Bathing cycle

  Is it enough to have a groomer bathe and trim your pet every 1-2 months? The answer: No.

  The bathing cycle should not solely depend on time; various factors must be considered.

  For example:

  1. If a dog often goes out for activities, it should be bathed frequently; a small dog with less activity can be bathed every 15-20 days.

  2. If a dog loves to sleep on the owner's bed, bathing times must be more frequent.

  3. Skin issues, post-surgery, fear of water... these are all factors to consider.
  

• In autumn and winter, a dog's skin metabolism speeds up, and un-shed keratinocytes can clump into dandruff. Bathing or soaking baths can remove dandruff, reduce excess oil, and alleviate scratching issues, as excessive scratching can lead to a vicious cycle of severe skin problems.
  

• Regularly brush and loosen your dog's fur to prevent tangles from losing their protective function. A dog's fur provides protection, warmth, and sun protection, and also reduces skin exposure to air. Paired with anti-static, detangling moisturizing spray, brushing becomes easier and fur is less likely to break.
  

• Supplement with Omega-3 and Omega-6 to provide essential nutrients for skin and fur.
  

• Poor ventilation and indoor dust mites can also cause skin problems in dogs. Spending too much time in high-temperature environments can also lead to sensitive skin issues.

If your dog has severe skin problems, you should seek immediate veterinary care. After confirming the dog's condition, in addition to medication, you can choose appropriate pet grooming products to alleviate the dog's discomfort.