1. How Your Dog’s Skin Reflects Their Overall Health

Your dog’s skin and coat condition can speak volumes about their health. The skin is the body’s largest organ and often mirrors internal well-being. A healthy dog will typically have a shiny, smooth coat and clear, supple skin, with no strong odor or irritation. In contrast, unhealthy skin may appear greasy, flaky, bumpy, or red, and the coat might be dull, brittle, or thinning (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). For example, a lack of proper nutrition can result in a dry, rough coat or scaly, thickened skin (Coat and Skin Health as an Indicator of Nutritional Status | PetMD). Keep an eye out for changes in your dog’s skin/coat, as these can be early warning signs.

• Skin as a Health Barometer: Vets note that issues like allergies, parasites (fleas, ticks, mites), or hormonal imbalances often manifest as skin and coat problems (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). Chronic illness or stress can also dull a coat or trigger excessive shedding. If you observe persistent itching, hair loss, or skin lesions, it could signal an underlying problem (e.g. thyroid disease, internal parasites, infection). Common skin conditions such as repeated rashes, hot spots, or non-healing sores usually point to an internal issue that needs attention.
• Signs to Watch: Healthy skin is normally pink or black (depending on natural pigmentation) and free of flakes or sores. Watch for persistent redness, foul odor, swelling, or pain on your dog’s skin – these are red flags. Likewise, a lackluster coat that is dry or shedding in excess may indicate something is off internally. Many skin/coat issues will improve dramatically once the root health issue is treated (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). Bottom line: Don’t dismiss skin troubles as “just cosmetic” – they often reflect your dog’s overall health, so a vet check is wise if you notice significant changes.

2. Could Your Dog Have Silent Allergy Problems?

Allergies in dogs can be tricky – sometimes the signs are subtle and easy to overlook. Dogs can suffer from several types of allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies, and contact allergies. These allergic reactions often show up through the skin, so you might notice changes in your dog’s coat or behavior before you ever see them sneezing. Here’s what to know:

• Types of Dog Allergies:
  • Flea Allergy Dermatitis (Insect Allergies): Some dogs develop an allergy to flea bites. Even a single flea bite can trigger intense itching and irritation in a sensitive dog. You might see them chew or scratch especially at the tail-base region, removing hair and causing red, bumpy skin; often you’ll find flea dirt or fleas upon inspection (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ). Strict flea control is key for these dogs.
  • Atopic Dermatitis (Environmental Allergies): Many dogs are allergic to things in their environment like pollen, grass, mold, or dust mites. These tend to be seasonal allergens (e.g. pollens in spring/summer) except for year-round culprits like dust or mold (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ). Dogs with atopy often have itchy skin – you may notice face rubbing, paw licking, belly scratching, or recurrent ear infections as common signs (Allergies & Skin Issues in Pets | Oregon Veterinary Medical Association).
  • Food Allergies: Dogs can react to certain ingredients in their diet (commonly beef, chicken, dairy, soy, or wheat). Only about 10–15% of allergic skin issues in dogs are due to food (Allergies & Skin Issues in Pets | Oregon Veterinary Medical Association), but they do occur. A food-allergic dog might have itchy skin (especially ears and paws), and sometimes digestive upset or chronic ear infections (Different Types of Dog Allergies: How to Identify and Treat Them). Food allergies can develop at any age (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ).
  • Contact Allergies: This is the least common type of allergy in dogs (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ). It results from direct contact with an allergen – for example, certain grasses, pesticides, carpet fibers, or detergents. Contact allergies usually cause localized irritation on areas that touch the allergen (belly, paws, chin, etc.), leading to red, itchy patches. Removing or avoiding the offending substance typically resolves a contact allergy (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ).
• Silent Symptoms to Watch: Allergy symptoms in dogs can be subtle. Look for excessive licking, chewing, or scratching, especially if it’s focused on the paws, underside, armpits, or ears. Recurrent ear infections, foot chewing, or anal gland problems can be linked to underlying allergies (Dog Dermatology – Everything You Need to Know About Skin Conditions in Dogs | Animal Hospital of Statesville) (Allergies & Skin Issues in Pets | Oregon Veterinary Medical Association). You might also see red or inflamed skin, hair loss from constant licking, or even frequent sneezing and watery eyes in the case of environmental allergies. These signs can come and go, which is why a dog could have “silent” allergies that flare up seasonally or sporadically.
• Diagnosis: If you suspect your dog has allergies, a veterinary exam is the first step. The vet will often rule out other causes of itching (like fleas or infections) and review your dog’s history. For food allergies, an elimination diet trial (feeding a special diet for 8–12 weeks) is the gold standard to pinpoint which ingredient is causing the reaction (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ). For environmental allergies, vets can perform allergy tests (intradermal skin testing or blood tests) to identify the specific triggers. Keep in mind that dogs often have multiple allergies at once (for example, a combination of atopy and food allergy), which can make diagnosis challenging (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ).
• Management & Relief: While allergies can’t be “cured” outright, they can be managed to keep your pup comfortable. Treatment usually involves a combination of:
  • Avoidance – minimize exposure to known allergens (e.g. use flea prevention, wash bedding in hypoallergenic detergent, avoid problematic foods).
  • Medication – antihistamines or corticosteroids can quickly relieve itching in many cases (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ). For chronic cases, your vet might prescribe newer allergy medications or even immunotherapy (allergy shots/desensitization).
  • Topical Relief – medicated shampoos or sprays can soothe itchy, inflamed skin. Oatmeal-based dog shampoos, for instance, can calm irritation.
  • Dietary supplements – Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and support the skin barrier, often benefiting allergic dogs. Always consult your vet before adding supplements.

Allergy management is very individual – it may take some trial and error to find what works for your dog, but with a good plan (and possibly a veterinary dermatologist’s help for tough cases), even “silent” allergy problems can be kept under control.

3. Seasonal Challenges for Dog Skin Health

Just like us, dogs can experience skin challenges that vary with the seasons. Weather changes, humidity levels, and seasonal allergens all play a role in your dog’s skin and coat condition. Here’s a breakdown of common seasonal skin issues and how to address them:

Winter Skin Woes

Winter can be tough on your dog’s skin. Cold air outside and heated homes inside both lead to low humidity, which can dry out your dog’s skin. You might notice your dog’s skin becoming dry, flaky, or itchy during the winter months (Dartmouth Dogs: How to Prevent and Treat Dry Skin in Winter – Anchor Animal Hospital). Some dogs even develop visible “dandruff” (white flakes) in their coat from the dryness. Another winter hazard is paw problems – snow, ice, and sidewalk de-icing salts can irritate the paw pads, causing cracking or soreness (Dartmouth Dogs: How to Prevent and Treat Dry Skin in Winter – Anchor Animal Hospital).

• Dry Skin and Itchiness: To combat winter dryness, help your dog retain skin moisture. Run a humidifier in the house to add moisture to the air during heating season (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). Avoid over-bathing your dog in winter, as too many baths can strip the natural oils from the skin and make dryness worse. When you do bathe, use a moisturizing dog shampoo and lukewarm water, and consider an after-bath conditioner to rehydrate the skin. You can also ask your vet about adding fatty acid supplements to the diet – omega-3s can help keep skin supple from the inside out during dry seasons.
• Paw Protection: After walks in the snow or on salted sidewalks, always rinse and dry your dog’s paws. This removes salt and ice-melt chemicals that can cause irritation or even chemical burns between the toes. Applying a pet-safe paw balm before outings can provide a protective barrier. For dogs tolerant of them, dog booties are an excellent way to prevent paw cracks and irritation in icy conditions. Keeping the fur between their toe pads trimmed can also reduce ice buildup. If your dog’s paw pads do become cracked or painful, consult your vet for healing balms or further care.

Spring and Summer Skin Challenges

The warmer months bring a new set of skin aggravators for dogs. Spring often heralds the arrival of environmental allergens like pollen, grasses, and weeds, while summer brings bugs and hot, humid weather. Here are some common issues and tips for the warmer seasons:

• Seasonal Allergies (Spring): Spring is peak time for pollen allergies in dogs. Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen that can settle on your dog’s coat and skin, triggering atopic dermatitis in sensitive pups. You might notice your dog becomes itchier in spring/summer, chewing at paws or scratching more due to pollen exposure. They may also get red, inflamed skin or watery eyes and sneezing during high pollen days. To help, rinse or wipe down your dog’s coat and feet after coming in from outside to remove pollen. Frequent brushing can also get rid of allergens trapped in the fur. On high pollen count days, keeping your dog indoors during peak times can minimize exposure. If your dog has severe seasonal allergies, your vet may recommend allergy meds during those months.
• Fleas, Ticks, and Insect Bites (Summer): Warm weather means parasites are more active. Fleas and ticks can flourish in spring and especially summer, latching onto your dog’s skin and causing itchiness or localized irritation. Flea infestations often lead to intense scratching and can provoke flea allergy dermatitis as discussed above. Ticks can cause red bite sites or transmit diseases – always check your dog’s coat after outdoor adventures. Year-round flea and tick prevention is the best defense (Allergies in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals ), but it’s especially crucial in spring and summer. In addition, summer brings out other insects: mosquito and fly bites can lead to small red bumps or allergic reactions (some dogs develop “fly bite” dermatitis on ear tips). Bee or wasp stings may cause swelling or hives – keep an eye out and seek vet care if your dog has a significant reaction (facial swelling or difficulty breathing from a sting needs immediate attention).
• Hot Spots and Humidity (Summer): Hot, humid weather can turn a small skin irritation into a nasty hot spot almost overnight. Hot spots (also known as acute moist dermatitis or “summer sores”) are red, moist, oozing patches of infected skin. They’re often triggered by itching and biting at the skin – allergies or insect bites start the itch-scratch cycle, and bacteria then take hold in the damp area. Dogs with thick undercoats (e.g. Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds) are prone to hot spots in summer, especially if moisture gets trapped in their fur. Swimming or even a heavy downpour can leave the undercoat damp; if it isn’t thoroughly dried, the warm moisture next to the skin creates a perfect environment for infection (Hot spots | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine). To prevent hot spots, keep your dog well-groomed (brush out that shedding undercoat) and dry them off after swims or baths. If you notice a small area of skin irritation, clean and monitor it so it doesn’t worsen. Should a hot spot develop (you’ll see a wet, red sore that the dog is obsessively licking or scratching), seek veterinary treatment – they often require clipping the area, cleaning, and medications to heal properly (Dog Skin Issues | PetMD).
• Sun and Heat: Believe it or not, dogs can get sunburned too. Dogs with short white fur or pink skin (like bull terriers, dalmatians, etc.) are at higher risk of sunburn on areas like the nose, ear tips, belly, and inner legs. Intense sun can also exacerbate certain skin conditions (like autoimmune skin diseases). If your dog spends time outdoors in summer, provide shade and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak midday sun. You can apply dog-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas – ask your vet for a recommendation (never use zinc oxide products on dogs, as they are toxic if licked). Additionally, don’t shave your dog’s coat too short in summer – a groomer can do a “summer trim,” but leaving some length actually helps protect the skin from UV rays and insulates from heat. Always ensure fresh water is available so your dog stays hydrated, as proper hydration supports healthy skin.

Every season comes with specific skin challenges, but with a few proactive steps you can keep your dog comfortable year-round. Adjust your dog’s skincare routine with the seasons: moisturize in winter, ramp up parasite prevention in summer, and always observe their skin and coat for any changes.

4. Grooming Hacks for a Healthy, Shiny Coat

Regular grooming is more than just a beauty routine – it’s essential for your dog’s skin and coat health. Proper grooming not only keeps your pup looking sharp, it also helps prevent skin problems by removing dirt, distributing natural oils, and catching issues early. Here are some grooming hacks and best practices to maintain a healthy, shiny coat:

• Brush Regularly (and Use the Right Tools): Brushing is the cornerstone of coat care. It removes dead hair and dandruff and spreads the skin’s natural oils, which keeps the coat glossy and moisturizes the skin (How to Keep Your Dog’s Skin Moisturized This Winter). Aim to brush your dog on a schedule that suits their coat type – for example, daily brushing for long-haired or double-coated breeds, and at least weekly for short-haired breeds. Use grooming tools suited to your dog’s coat: a slicker brush or comb for long, silky or curly coats (to gently detangle mats), an undercoat rake for thick double coats (to strip out the fluffy undercoat during shedding seasons), and a bristle or rubber curry brush for short coats (to remove loose hairs and buff the shine) (Choosing the Right Brush for Pet Coat Types). Spending a few minutes on brushing not only keeps the fur tangle-free, it’s also a nice bonding time. Bonus hack: slightly dampen the brush or use a conditioning spray if your dog has a lot of static or flyaway fur in dry weather.
• Bathing and Shampoo Tips: When it comes to baths, quality and technique matter more than frequency. Bathe your dog only as needed – over-bathing can strip natural oils and lead to dry skin. Many dogs do well with a bath every 4-8 weeks, but this varies with lifestyle (e.g. mud rollers might need more frequent baths!). Always use a shampoo formulated for dogs, not human shampoos (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). Canine skin has a different pH, and human products (even baby shampoo) are too harsh and can cause irritation (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). For routine baths, a gentle, hypoallergenic dog shampoo (preferably unscented) is best. Oatmeal or aloe-based shampoos are great for moisturizing and soothing itchy skin (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). After shampooing, consider using a dog conditioner or conditioning rinse – this restores moisture, prevents tangles, and leaves the coat soft (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). Always rinse thoroughly to leave no product residue. If your dog has specific skin issues (allergies, infections, etc.), your vet may prescribe a medicated shampoo – follow the instructions (contact time is important for these to work). In between baths, you can use dog grooming wipes or waterless shampoo for spot-cleaning. And if you find you need to bathe your dog very frequently due to allergies or dirt, check with your vet; they might recommend special shampoos or omega fatty acids to support the skin with all that washing (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ).
• Coat-Specific Care Hacks: Different coats benefit from different care approaches. Dogs that don’t shed much (like Poodles, Bichons, etc.) need regular haircuts to prevent overgrowth and matting – schedule grooming appointments or learn to do trims at home safely. Breeds with skin folds (Bulldogs, Shar-Peis) or droopy ears should have those areas cleaned routinely to avoid yeast or bacteria build-up. For heavy shedders, increase brushing during spring and fall when they “blow” their coat; this helps remove the shed fur before it forms mats or hot spots. A de-shedding tool can be a game-changer during molting season. Always check your dog’s skin as you groom – look for any redness, bumps, fleas, or ticks. Early detection of a problem means you can address it before it worsens.
• Nutrition and Supplements for a Shiny Coat: Great grooming isn’t just external – what your dog eats plays a huge role in skin and coat condition. Feed a high-quality, balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients for skin health. Proteins are especially important (hair is about 95% protein), as are certain vitamins and minerals (like zinc, copper, and vitamin E) that keep the skin healthy. A dog on an imbalanced or poor diet often develops a dull, dry coat and excessive shedding (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ) (Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog | VCA Animal Hospitals ). To boost coat health, consider adding essential fatty acids to your dog’s diet. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (from sources like fish oil) help reduce inflammation and moisturize the skin from within; dogs lacking in EFAs may have dandruff and coarse fur (Coat and Skin Health as an Indicator of Nutritional Status | PetMD) (Coat and Skin Health as an Indicator of Nutritional Status | PetMD). Consult your vet for the right type and dose of supplement – too much can add calories, but the right amount can make a big difference in coat gloss and softness. Also ensure your pup stays hydrated (water is key for skin moisture).

In summary, groom from the outside and the inside. Brush and bathe your dog with proper tools and products, and feed them a diet rich in nutrients and healthy fats. Not only will your dog look and feel better, but routine grooming sessions also allow you to catch any skin problems early and keep that coat shining year-round.

5. Is Dog Dandruff a Sign of an Underlying Health Issue?

Have you ever noticed white flakes on your dog’s fur or bedding? Yes, dogs can get dandruff too! Dog dandruff is basically dry, flaky dead skin shedding from the skin surface. A little bit of flakiness once in a while can be normal (especially during winter dryness), but excessive dandruff or flakes accompanied by other symptoms can indeed signal an underlying issue. Let’s unpack the causes of dog dandruff, when to worry, and how to treat and prevent it.

Common Causes of Dog Dandruff:

• Dry Environment: Just like humans, dogs often get dandruff in winter due to low humidity. Indoor heating can make the air very dry, stripping moisture from your dog’s skin (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). This dry skin then flakes off as dandruff. Over-bathing or using harsh shampoos can also cause dryness and flaking.
• External Parasites: Several parasites can make a dog’s skin flaky. The Cheyletiella mite infestation is actually nicknamed “walking dandruff” because these large mites look like moving flakes on a dog’s skin (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment)! (If you ever see dandruff flakes that move, get your dog to the vet – mites are the likely culprit.) Flea infestations or lice can also cause itching and skin debris that resembles dandruff. These parasites irritate the skin, leading to inflammation and flakiness.
• Skin Infections: Both bacterial and fungal (yeast) infections of the skin can present with dandruff-like scaling. Often, there will be other clues like redness, odor, or greasiness, but in early stages you might just see flakes. Infections tend to exploit skin that is already unhealthy or compromised. For example, if a dog has seborrhea (a skin disorder of abnormal oil production), bacteria or yeast can overgrow and create scaly, flaky patches that won’t go away until the infection is treated (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment).
• Allergies: As discussed earlier, allergies commonly lead to skin irritation. Dogs with allergies (environmental or food) often have more flaky skin, because inflammation can disrupt the normal skin turnover. You might notice the dandruff is worse during certain seasons or accompanied by itching and ear issues – those patterns hint at an allergy link (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment).
• Nutrition Issues: An imbalanced diet can lead to a poor coat and dandruff. If a dog isn’t getting enough fatty acids, for instance, their skin may become dry and flaky. Deficiencies in certain nutrients (like zinc) or a diet that’s not appropriate for the dog’s needs can show up as chronic dandruff and a dull coat (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). (On the flip side, a healthy diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 can often improve mild dandruff over time.)
• Hormonal or Medical Problems: Certain medical conditions have dandruff as a symptom. Hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone) and Cushing’s disease (high cortisol levels) are two hormonal disorders that frequently cause skin and coat changes – including dryness, hair loss, and recurrent dandruff (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). Dogs with these issues may have other signs like weight changes or lethargy, but sometimes skin symptoms show up first. Additionally, some breeds (e.g. Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels) have a genetic predisposition to primary seborrhea, where the skin just produces excess flakes and oil. In any case, when dandruff is persistent, it’s important to consider an underlying medical cause.

When Is Dandruff a Concern?
A small amount of dandruff that comes and goes (for example, a bit of flaking during winter that improves with humidity, or minor “dander” after a bath) is usually not serious. However, you should be concerned if you see dandruff accompanied by other skin problems or discomfort. Warning signs include: intense itchiness, a musty or foul skin odor, lots of hair loss, red irritated skin, or your dog seems uncomfortable or ill in addition to the flakes (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). Also, dandruff that is persistent or worsening despite basic remedies is a red flag. Basically, if flaky skin is severe or making your pup miserable (or if you see those “walking” flakes that indicate mites!), it’s time for a vet visit. Dandruff itself won’t hurt your dog, but the underlying cause might need treatment, and resolving that cause is the key to getting rid of the flakes.

How to Treat and Prevent Dog Dandruff:
The good news is that in many cases, dandruff can be managed or eliminated by addressing its root cause and improving skin hydration. Here are some treatment and prevention tips:

• Address Underlying Causes: First and foremost, tackle the reason for the dandruff. If it’s parasites, your vet will prescribe appropriate flea/tick or mite treatments (and you’ll need to treat the environment for fleas or isolate a mite-infested dog during treatment to prevent spread). If an infection is present, medications like antibiotics or antifungals will be needed to clear it up, which in turn will clear the flakes (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). For hormonal imbalances or allergies, work with your vet on a management plan (medications, supplements, or diet changes) – as those conditions come under control, the skin should improve. Dandruff often resolves once the underlying issue is treated, so a vet check is crucial for persistent cases.
• Grooming and Bathing: Regular grooming can significantly reduce dandruff. Brushing your dog helps remove loose flakes and distributes oils on the skin. Bathing can also help wash away excess flakes and soothe the skin, but you must do it correctly. Use a vet-recommended dandruff shampoo or a gentle moisturizing dog shampoo. Ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, or omega fatty acids in shampoos can calm dryness. Your vet might prescribe a medicated shampoo (for example, containing sulfur, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide) if the dandruff is severe or related to seborrhea. Do not over-bathe, though – bathing too frequently (or with harsh shampoos) can actually dry out the skin more and worsen dandruff (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). Usually, a bath once every 2-4 weeks is plenty, unless directed otherwise by your vet. After bathing, ensure you rinse thoroughly and dry your dog well, since residual shampoo or dampness can cause other skin issues.
• Moisturize the Skin: To combat dryness, add humidity and moisture to your dog’s routine. Using a humidifier in your home during dry months can prevent the air from sapping moisture from your dog’s skin (How To Get Rid Of Dandruff in Dogs: Causes & Treatment). You can also find dog-specific moisturizing sprays or conditioners to apply on their coat between baths – look for products with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil (and avoid anything with heavy perfumes or alcohol that could irritate). Some owners lightly apply coconut oil to dry patches (in moderation, as it can make fur greasy) – if you try this, do so sparingly and monitor that your dog doesn’t lick too much of it off.
• Diet and Supplements: Ensure your dog’s diet is skin-friendly. Feed a high-quality diet with adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. If your vet agrees, you might add an omega-3 supplement (fish oil) to help dandruff – these fatty acids improve skin barrier function and add shine to the coat (Coat and Skin Health as an Indicator of Nutritional Status | PetMD) (Coat and Skin Health as an Indicator of Nutritional Status | PetMD). Supplements like biotin or zinc may be recommended in some cases of chronic skin issues, but only give what your vet suggests, as excessive supplementation can cause other imbalances. And of course, keep your dog well-hydrated; water helps maintain skin elasticity and moisture.

By combining good nutrition, proper grooming, and veterinary care for any underlying conditions, you can usually banish your dog’s dandruff. Remember that the goal is to treat the cause, not just the symptom – so while shampoos and humidifiers will help the flakes in the short term, be sure to address whatever made the skin flaky in the first place (be it fleas, allergies, or something else). In no time, your dog’s coat will be back to its shiny, flake-free glory!

6. Quick Reference Guide to Dog Skin & Coat Issues

Finally, here’s a handy table summarizing common skin and coat problems in dogs, along with their typical symptoms and solutions:

Note: The above are general guidelines – always consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan for your dog’s specific skin or coat issue. Keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy is a combination of good daily care, attentive observation, and proactive veterinary care when something seems off. With these tips and knowledge in hand, you’re well on your way to unlocking the secrets to a happy, healthy dog skin and coat!