Winter Skincare for Dogs: Combating Dryness and Cracks
Just as our skin can suffer in the cold weather at this time of year, our dogs can too. Humidity levels are low, the outside air is cold and blustery, and rapidly going from warm, indoor air to cold, outdoor air, and then back again into the warmth can result in roughened, cracked skin which if not looked after, can develop some uncomfortable dermatological issues as cracked skin is very sensitive to infection, sensitisation and bleeding.
Here are a few tips to try and avoid skin issues in your dogs over the winter months;
Baths
Try and limit the number of baths you give your dog over the winter, as an excessive number can actually result in drying out the skin and dry skin is prone to cracking. Be very careful with the shampoos or other products you use, and always go for ones which moisturise the skin, such as Coatex. Dogs with dry skin may also benefit from the use of rich, gentle dog conditioners which are designed to add a deeper, penetrating layer of moisture to the skin and coat for longer-lasting skin suppleness and water-locking power.
Brushing
Brush your dog with a comb or brush specific for the type of coat your dog has, at least once or twice daily, such as Mikki Brush Ball Pin Slicker or the Furminator Dog Brush. Brushing helps to remove skin flakes and loose hair, and as well as helping your dog to keep a shiny, healthy, coat, it helps to stimulate and distribute the skin’s natural oils which form a protective, moisturising barrier.
Humidifier
Running a humidifier or a fan can help to return some moisture to the air inside your house; this also helps to circulate the air so that allergens are not collecting in the air and carpets. Avoid as much as possible the use of room deodorisers, scents and carpet cleaning products as these products can be hazardous to pets with sensitive skin.
Diet
Feeding your dog a high-quality, healthy diet all year round can help to prepare your dog’s skin for the winter. A nutritionally balanced food, preferably with good levels of essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids such as Royal Canin Veterinary Health Nutrition Canine Hypoallergenic food helps to maintain healthy skin and may particularly benefit dogs with skin and coat issues, but it is always a good idea to talk to a veterinary surgeon before switching your dog’s diet, and always introduce a new diet gradually, to try and avoid tummy upsets caused by a sudden change in food.
Hydration
Provide plenty of clean, fresh water always, to help maintain your dog’s hydration levels. Even mild dehydration can cause the skin to dry out and flake and water intake may be encouraged by adding some warm water to your dog’s water bowl in the winter months, or by adding a splash of flavour, such as some juice from Spring water tuna for example.
This is particularly important for dogs fed on a dry, kibble diet, as most dogs do not naturally drink enough water anyway, and this is exacerbated if only dry food is fed. Moisture can be added to their food, their treats and even their toys to help encourage fluid uptake and help combat the effects of dehydration.
Skin Supplements
Adding healthy fats and oils into your dog’s diet can help to soothe dry skin and reduce the inflammation of the skin which causes itchiness. This is important to try and prevent or break the itch-scratch cycle which readily develops into a self-perpetuating issue.
They help to support the skin cells by keeping them alive for longer and preventing them from shedding as frequently. This helps to reduce itchiness and limit dandruff and shedding. Animal sources such as wild-caught salmon oil are very effective as they contain a wider variety of those all-important omega fatty acids, but plant-based oils can also be effectively used, such as flaxseed, or coconut oils.
There are also several different types of supplements available in tablet, capsule, or liquid form, which may be easier for owners to use, such as Viacutan Plus, or in a spot-on format such as Allerderm.
Coats and Paw Waxes
The pads of dog's feet are also prone to cracking in the winter weather, and are sensitive to ice melters such as salt, rain and ice, leading to dryness and irritation. The use of doggy boots can help if your dog is prone to this problem, or a dog paw-wax which helps to soothe cracked paws and provide an additional barrier to the hazards of winter. Similarly, a decent quality, warm and/or waterproof coat can also help to lock moisture into the skin, and prevent it from drying out.
Finally, it is important to spot early on the signs of skin dryness in your dog so that it can be tackled before further problems develop. Symptoms include:
Itching
Dandruff and flaking of skin
Pimples
Scaling
Loss of fur
Scabs
Cracking +/- inflammation of skin
Increased oiliness of the skin
Whilst mild cases may be remedied by following the above advice, more severe cases warrant an appointment with a vet, as there may be something of a more serious, underlying issue going on, such as parasites, allergies, or autoimmune conditions such as hypothyroidism, whereby skin problems are evident as a secondary effect of the underlying condition.
Medically reviewed by:
Sources
Diamond Pet - Managing Winter Dog Dandruff
Vetnique Labs - Tips to help your dogs dry skin in winter
Homes Alive - Dry Skin in Winter
Holistic Select - Tips for keeping dogs skin and coat health during winter