Pet Skin Doctor

“Dermatitis” is a catchall term for the numerous inflammatory skin diseases that can affect dogs. These include bacterial, fungal, yeast, or parasitic infection, seborrhea, food allergies or sensitivities, flea saliva is a common allergen, contact with an irritating substance, metabolic and endocrine disorders, drug reactions, exposure to toxins, breed-specific predisposition, nutritional deficiencies or even sunburn.

This particular case of dog dermatitis turned out to be nutritional deficiency. A somewhat simple fix in the grand scheme of possible causes of dog dermatitis.  Luckily, it didn’t take us too long to figure out what it was, because we began our research there.  We figured it certainly wouldn’t hurt whatever condition existed to verify our dog was on the proper diet for his size, age and breed.  I’ve learned that often times, poor nutrition and lack of the right amount of daily exercise are a major cause for certain types of dog skin conditions.

Although not all dogs like to roll in smelly things, owners have discovered this perfectly normal trait in their dog. Although there is no certain explanation why dogs roll in smelly substances, much is learned from their descendant, the wolf.  A wolf or a wild dog would roll around in dead animals or dung to mask their scent to be able to get closer to their prey.  Another concept is that dogs roll in order to flaunt what they found to other animals. Working and hunting dogs tend to have this behavior more often than other breeds, perhaps because they are more closely related to wolves.

Thankfully, rolling around in smelly material does decrease with age. This behavior is normal, but may be controlled by using commands or a leash. Dogs should always receive a bath after rolling around in smelly things. Dead animals, dung and garbage can attract many parasites because they believe the dog in dead or dying. Not bathing right away or parasite infestations will lead to dog skin conditions as well as poor coat conditions. Final note – another reason dogs may roll in smelly substances is because of perfumed soap, so use only dog formulated shampoo and watch your dog’s behavior after a bath.

A dog’s coat is very important to them. Some dogs, such as the Labrador Retriever, have a double coat.  This double coat allows for water resistance to protect them from a heavy downpour or other weather conditions.  Almost all dogs shed their coat.  They usually begin to shed their coat in spring, allowing their coat to insulate the cool air. Than, as fall comes along, their coat grows back in to insulate the heat.  Although most dogs shed, some dogs such as Poodles, are known as “hypoallergenic” because they shed less and can be tolerated by owners that are allergic to dog dander. Whiskers are hairs with a very sensitive base, used to feel surroundings.  Although many dogs live indoors now, their coat was once used to conceal themselves or even used to signal to other animals.

Although many dogs use their coat for good, sometimes the environment doesn’t care. A thick coat can also conceal parasite infestations, such as maggots. A dog’s coat is a good sign of their overall well-being.  A dull or lifeless coat may mean there’s something wrong with your dog. Many things can be done to make your dog’s coat look great. Regular dog skin care such as bathing and brushing can improve a dog’s coat. You can also give your dog better food, or add a supplement to there diet. Lastly, always give nutritious treats. Many treats can be bad for your dog’s health, so check the ingredients before feeding them to your dog.