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Common Causes of Skin Problems in Dogs

Skin problems can be caused by many factors. The most common causes include:

• **Allergies:** Food allergies ( hypoallergenic dog food is often necessary) and environmental allergies (atopy) are leading causes of itching and skin inflammation.
• **Parasites:** Fleas, mites, and lice can cause intense itching and skin irritation.
• **Bacterial and Fungal Infections:** Often secondary to allergies or injuries, can cause redness, pimples, scabs and bad odor.
• **Nutritional deficiencies:** Insufficient intake of essential fatty acids, zinc or biotin can negatively affect skin health.
• **Hormonal Disorders:** Certain diseases, such as hypothyroidism, can manifest as skin and coat problems.
• **Environmental factors:** Dry air, harsh chemicals, or too frequent bathing can irritate the skin.

It is always important to consult a veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, as many skin problems require specific measures in addition to changing food.

Key Ingredients in Food for Skin Health

Dog food for skin health is rich in specific nutrients that contribute to a strong skin barrier and a shiny coat:

• **Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids:** EPA and DHA from fish oil in particular have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that relieve itching and inflammation. Omega-6, such as linoleic acid and GLA (borage oil), contribute to the skin's barrier function.
• **High-Quality Protein:** Easily digestible proteins are crucial for skin cell renewal and fur growth.
• **Zinc & Biotin:** Important micronutrients that contribute to healthy skin, strong claws and good coat quality.
• **Vitamin A & E:** Powerful antioxidants that protect skin cells from damage and contribute to a healthy skin barrier.
• **Prebiotics & Probiotics:** To support a healthy intestinal flora, which can indirectly positively affect skin health, especially in cases of stomach and intestinal disease in dogs .

Many of these foods are classified as veterinary foods , which ensures that they are scientifically formulated to meet specific medical needs.

Complementary Measures for Dogs with Skin Problems

To achieve the best possible results for skin problems, a holistic approach is important:

1. **Veterinary Diagnosis:** Always start by getting a proper diagnosis from your veterinarian in order to treat the root cause.
2. **Treatment of Secondary Infections:** If the skin is damaged, treat any bacterial or fungal infections with medicated shampoos or medications as prescribed by your veterinarian.
3. **Regular Skin and Coat Care:** Use mild, hypoallergenic shampoos and brush the coat regularly to remove dead hairs and promote blood circulation.
4. **Dietary supplements:** In consultation with a veterinarian, additional supplements of Omega-3, zinc or biotin can enhance the effect of the food.
5. **Environmental adaptation:** Minimize exposure to known allergens (e.g. dust mites, pollen) by regularly cleaning and washing bedding.
6. **Stress Management:** Stress can worsen skin problems. Consider our food for stressed/nervous dogs .
7. **Weight Control:** Being overweight can worsen skin problems, especially in skin folds. See our range of weight control products for dogs .
8. **Regular Veterinary Visits:** For continuous monitoring and adjustment of the treatment plan. This is also important if your dog has other specific needs such as dog food for diabetes control , dog food for liver disease , dog food for kidney disease, dog food for urinary tract problems , dog food for dental health , dog food for heart disease or dog food for joint and movement health .

Give your dog the best possible conditions for healthy skin and a shiny coat with food for skin health dogs from Zoostar.se.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Skin Health Food

Here we answer some of the most frequent questions we receive regarding food for dog skin health.

What are the most common causes of skin problems in dogs?

Skin problems are among the most common reasons for veterinary visits and can be very distressing for the dog. The causes are many and varied, often complex and sometimes a combination of several factors. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for successful treatment. Here are the most common causes: 1. Allergies: This is by far the most common cause of itching and skin problems in dogs. - Food allergy/Food intolerance: A reaction to a specific protein (usually) in the food. Symptoms include itching (especially around the ears, paws, groin), redness, rash, and gastrointestinal problems. An elimination diet with hypoallergenic food is the key to diagnosis and treatment. - Atopic dermatitis (Atopy): A genetically determined allergy to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores. Symptoms are similar to food allergies, with intense itching, recurrent ear infections and skin inflammation. Often seasonal but can be year-round. - Contact allergy: Less common, but can occur in direct contact with irritants (e.g. certain cleaning agents, plants). 2. Parasites: Various parasites can cause intense itching and skin irritation. - Fleas: Causes severe itching, especially in flea allergy (where a single flea can trigger a major reaction). Often seen at the base of the tail. - Mites: For example, scabies (sarcoptes, demodex), ear mites. Causes intense itching, hair loss, redness and sores. - Lice, ticks: Can also cause itching and irritation. 3. Bacterial and Fungal Infections: These often occur secondary to other skin problems (e.g. allergies, injuries) that damage the skin barrier and create a favorable environment for microorganisms to grow in. - Bacterial infections (Pyoderma): Most often caused by staphylococci. Causes redness, pimples, scabs, hair loss and itching. - Yeast infections (Malassezia): Caused by the yeast Malassezia pachydermatis. Causes itching, redness, oily/greasy skin, dandruff, bad odor and thickened skin (elephant skin). Common in ears, paws and skin folds. 4. Hormonal disorders: Some endocrine diseases can affect skin health. - Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland): Can cause thin, dry fur, hair loss, flaking and susceptibility to infections. - Cushing's syndrome (overproduction of cortisol): Causes thin, brittle skin, hair loss, pigment changes and increased risk of infections. 5. Nutritional deficiencies: An unbalanced diet can directly affect skin and fur. - Lack of essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6): Can lead to dry, flaky skin, dull fur and increased itching. - Lack of zinc, biotin, vitamins A and E: Important for skin health and the immune system. 6. Environmental factors: - Dry air (especially in winter): Can dry out the skin. - Harsh chemicals/shampoos: Can irritate the skin. - Frequent bathing: Can disrupt the skin's natural oils if the wrong products are used. - Insufficient coat care: Mated fur can lead to skin irritations and infections. 7. Stress and Behavioral Problems: Some dogs lick or bite themselves excessively due to stress, anxiety or boredom, which leads to wounds and infections. 8. Other diseases and tumors: Although less common, some systemic diseases or skin tumors can manifest as skin problems. A correct diagnosis by a veterinarian is always necessary to be able to choose the right treatment, which often includes a customized food for dog skin health. At Zoostar.se you will find special food that supports your dog's skin and coat, including hypoallergenic food if allergies are suspected.

Which nutrients are important in food for skin and coat health?

Dog skin health foods are specially formulated to support the skin’s barrier function, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy, shiny coat. They often contain a higher concentration or specific balance of certain key nutrients. Here are the key ingredients to look for: 1. Essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6): These are crucial for skin and coat health, and the body cannot produce them on its own. - Omega-3 (EPA and DHA): From sources such as fish oil (salmon, sardines, anchovies) and algae. Have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve itching, redness, and inflammation in allergies, eczema, and other skin problems. They also contribute to the skin’s barrier function and the health of cell membranes. - Omega-6 (Linoleic acid, GLA): From vegetable oils such as sunflower oil, corn oil, as well as borage oil (rich in GLA) and evening primrose oil (rich in GLA). Important for maintaining skin integrity, reducing moisture loss, and promoting coat quality. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6 is critical, with a higher ratio of omega-3 often being beneficial for skin problems. 2. High-quality protein: Protein is a fundamental building block for skin cells, hair, nails and antibodies. - Easily digestible protein sources: Such as chicken, lamb, fish or hydrolyzed proteins (especially important for food allergies). - Sufficient amount: To ensure optimal cell renewal and coat growth. 3. Zinc: A trace element that is important for skin cell growth, repair and immune function. Zinc deficiency can lead to dry, flaky skin, hair loss and impaired wound healing. 4. Biotin (Vitamin B7): A B vitamin that plays an important role in the metabolism of fatty acids and cell growth. Deficiency can lead to dry skin, hair loss and poor coat quality. 5. Vitamin A: Contributes to cell renewal and regulation of sebaceous gland production. Important for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. 6. Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects skin cells from damage caused by free radicals. Also has anti-inflammatory properties. 7. Other antioxidants: Such as vitamin C, selenium and polyphenols (from fruits, vegetables, green tea) that help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress that can damage skin cells. 8. Prebiotics and probiotics: Although they do not directly affect the skin, they contribute to a healthy intestinal flora. A healthy intestine has a positive effect on the immune system and can indirectly improve skin health, especially in the case of allergies and gastrointestinal diseases. 9. Limited Ingredient Diets: Many foods for sensitive skin are designed with a minimal number of ingredients to reduce the risk of reactions in dogs with suspected food sensitivities. See our range of hypoallergenic dog food. When should you consider a food for skin health? - In case of dry, flaky skin or dull coat. - In case of excessive itching that is not due to parasites. - In case of recurrent skin infections. - In case of suspected food allergy/sensitivity (these foods are often formulated to be hypoallergenic). - For dogs with atopic dermatitis as a complement to other treatment. At Zoostar.se you will find a wide range of dog skin health foods from leading brands. These foods, often from the veterinary food category, are scientifically designed to give your dog the best possible support for healthy skin and a shiny coat.

How can I manage my dog's skin problems besides changing food?

Switching to a dog food for skin health is a great first step, but for many dogs with skin problems, a broader approach is required. The skin is the body's largest organ and is affected by many factors. Here are important complementary measures that can help your dog: 1. Veterinary examination and diagnosis: This is the most important step. Many skin problems have similar symptoms but completely different causes (allergies, parasites, infections, hormonal disorders). A veterinarian can use tests (skin scrapings, blood tests, elimination diet) to determine the exact cause and prescribe the right treatment. 2. Management of secondary infections: Itching and damaged skin pave the way for bacterial infections (pyoderma) and yeast infections (Malassezia). These must be treated specifically by a veterinarian with: - Antibiotics (tablets or topical). - Antifungals (tablets or topical). - Medicated shampoos: Often chlorhexidine- or benzyl peroxide-based against bacteria, or ketoconazole-based against yeast. These are often used as part of a long-term management plan. 3. Regular hygiene and coat care: - Bathing: With the right shampoo, bathing can relieve itching, remove allergens, reduce the amount of bacteria/fungus and moisturize the skin. Always use products recommended for dogs and adapted for skin problems. - Brushing: Regular brushing stimulates blood circulation in the skin, distributes the skin's natural oils and helps remove loose fur and dirt. - Clipping: For dogs with long or thick fur, especially in the heat, clipping can help relieve itching and prevent skin problems. 4. Dietary supplements: In addition to what the food contains, additional supplements may be relevant (always in consultation with a veterinarian): - High doses of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA): To enhance the anti-inflammatory effect. - Borage oil/Evening primrose oil: Contains GLA which supports the skin barrier. - Biotin, Zinc, Vitamin E: If a deficiency is suspected or for extra support. 5. Drug treatment for severe itching/inflammation: In case of intense itching that affects the dog's quality of life, the veterinarian may prescribe medications: - Corticosteroids (cortisone): Rapid relief of itching and inflammation. Should be used with caution and only under veterinary supervision due to side effects with long-term use. - Oclacitinib (Apoquel) or Lokivetmab (Cytopoint): Specific drugs for allergic itching, often with fewer side effects than cortisone. - Antihistamines: Often have limited effect on dogs with severe itching. 6. Environmental adaptation (for environmental allergies/atopy): If your dog has atopic dermatitis, reduce exposure to allergens in the home: - Frequent vacuuming (with a HEPA filter). - Wash the dog's beds and blankets regularly in hot water. - Use a humidifier if the indoor air is dry. - Avoid letting the dog stay in areas with a lot of pollen or mold if there are known allergens. 7. Manage underlying diseases: If the skin problem is a consequence of another disease, such as a hormonal disorder, the underlying disease must be treated. 8. Weight control: Excess weight can worsen skin problems, especially in skin folds where moisture and heat create a breeding ground for infections. See our range for weight control for dogs. 9. Stress management: Stress can worsen skin problems or lead to excessive licking. See our food for stressed/nervous dogs. Remember that skin problems often require patience and a long-term commitment. By combining a suitable food for skin health dogs from Zoostar.se with these measures and a close dialogue with your veterinarian, you give your dog the best conditions for healthy skin and a shiny coat. We also have specialty foods such as dog food for diabetes control, dog food for liver disease, dog food for kidney disease, dog food for urinary tract problems, dog food for dental health, dog food for heart disease and dog food for joint and movement health that may be relevant if your dog has multiple health challenges.