Signs & Symptoms
Frequent scratching, increased hair loss as well as dull and lackluster coat are the first signs of skin and fur problems in dogs.
But also bald or sore spots, frequent gnawing at paws and body, as well as sliding the belly across the floor, can indicate problems with skin and fur.
Causes
In addition to health-related causes such as Skin fungi, parasites or allergies can also promote skin and fur problems. Inferior quality provides the body with less valuable nutrients. Also a needs-based composition the individual nutritional components support the health of skin and fur.
Valuable oils, minerals, and fibers strengthen the hair and make the skin resilient. If these components are missing in the food, it can lead to skin and fur problems. If you are unsure, please ask a veterinarian for advice.
Nährstoffreiches Futter zur Stärkung der Fell- und Hautgesundheit
Typical signs include excessive scratching, redness, dandruff, or dry, itchy skin. A dull, brittle coat or hair loss can also indicate problems. Other symptoms include unpleasant odor or spots on the skin, which could suggest allergies or infections.
Skin problems caused by skin fungi, parasites, or allergies must be treated medically. If the dog has problems with skin and fur due to poor or inadequate nutrition, switching to a suitable, healthy food can help.
Most mites are not visible to the naked eye, while fleas can be seen as tiny dark specks. However, the subsequent symptoms of mites and fleas, such as crusty skin deposits on the ears, muzzle, abdomen, elbows, and ankles, frequent scratching and head shaking, are easier to identify. Flea feces turn red when the areas are cleaned with water.
Nutrients such as Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for healthy skin and a shiny coat. These fatty acids, found in fish, liver oils, and high-quality feeds, strengthen the skin barrier and promote fur structure. Vitamins such as A and E also contribute to skin health by supporting cell protection and moisture regulation. High-quality proteins from meat and fish are important for the development and maintenance of skin and fur.
Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder. It primarily occurs in older dogs and is more common in breeds such as Poodles, Dachshunds, various Terrier breeds, and Boxers. Simply put, the body produces an excessive amount of cortisol (so-called "stress hormone") in Cushing's syndrome. Signs of the disease include behavioral abnormalities such as intense thirst and extreme hunger, as well as hair loss and a swollen belly. The cause of the increased cortisol production is either in the adrenal gland or in the pituitary gland. A veterinarian can confirm a suspected diagnosis through tests.
Typically, improvements in skin and coat health can be seen after about 4 to 6 weeks. This depends on the severity of the problems and the adjustment of the diet. Some dogs may need a bit longer to show visible changes, especially if pre-existing skin or coat problems are present.
