Dry skin and dandruff are very different, though sometimes are confused. Flakes of dry skin that come off infrequently are normal and happen to most, if not all, dogs AND humans. Dandruff is a much more severe condition where skin cells die and flake off constantly. With some proper care and a few dietary changes, your dog can be dandruff free and have a beautiful coat in a short amount of time.
What is the reason that my dog has dandruff?
Dandruff in canines can be caused by many simple mistakes, or sometimes by conditions that are completely out of the owner’s control. Some of the possible causes are:
- Poor grooming – regular (but not too frequent) bathing and brushing is important for keeping your dog’s skin healthy. Bathing too often may eliminate necessary skin oils, drying out the skin. Dogs with particularly long hair may retain dead skin cells even after a long bath unless they are properly brushed.
- Poor diet – various nutrients are necessary to create and maintain healthy skin oils in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids in particular are important, amongst others.
- Poor exercise – having a healthy body naturally improves skin health. Sedentary dogs or house dogs who are only taken outside for short periods of time may develop dandruff due to this alone.
- Poor humidity – extremely dry conditions can, of course, also dry out your dog’s skin. Puppy dandruff is often cured by simply using a humidifier, as many of the commercial chemicals are not safe for them.
Curing Canine Dandruff
The following solutions are all natural with little risk of side effects (aside from those that come from allergies). Read on to find out how to get rid of dog dandruff without using chemical products or spending a fortune.
Dietary Changes
Some pet owners simply buy the cheapest dog food available. Do not make this mistake. Many bottom-dollar brands are actually poisonous to dogs over the long term. Purchase foods naturally rich in nutrients, omega-3, and other oils. If possible, treat your dog to some wet food once a week.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar in general is great for most animals, but apple cider vinegar is particularly healthy for dogs. This is actually used as a topical treatment to moisturize the skin and can even treat skin diseases. Dilute the vinegar with water at a 1:2 ratio (more water than vinegar) and use it to bathe your dog. Or, simply swab it onto specifically bad areas with a cotton ball.
Lime Juice Rinse
Using diluted lime juice to rinse off your dog after using dandruff shampoo will safeguard them from infection while boosting the effects of the shampoo. It has the bonus of also adding some shine to their coat.
Humidifiers
As stated above, dog dandruff can be treated by simply using a humidifier. Place it in the area where the dog sleeps. Humidifier/purifier combination products can even help to rid the air of excess pet dander.
Fenugreek: the Herbal Solution
The seeds of the herb fenugreek act as a fantastic topical treatment for dog dandruff. Several cups of these seeds should be soaked in water long enough for them to bloat and become soft (usually done overnight). Drain the water, mash them up, and apply the paste to the affected area. Rinse with medium-cold water after an hour.
Treating With Beets
Using beets to treat dandruff can stain the dog’s coat or skin, so be mindful of this. To use this method, boil a few entire beets (including the top and root) and drain the water into a container. Let it cool and use it as a rinse.
Joxito