If you are a pet owner, you know that one of the most important things you can do for your furry friend is making sure their coat is shiny and healthy. Many commercial products on the market promise to help with this, but did you know that there are also several natural methods that you can use? This article will discuss some of the best ways to get your dog’s coat shining like new!
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Feeding Your Dog Quality Food
You need to feed them the proper food with the appropriate nutrients to make their coat glossy and healthy. Low-quality food or an incorrect ratio of homemade dog food can result in your pet not getting all of the nutrients they need, which will be visible in their coat. Young dogs on low-fat diets often have coarse hair coats, for example. You can expect to purchase quality foods from companies like Ollie that curate recipes specifically for your pup’s needs, whether that’s age, breed, weight, allergies, or food preferences.
Grooming Your Dog Regularly
This may seem like a no-brainer, but grooming your dog regularly is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy coat. Brushing helps to remove dirt and debris from the hair shafts and spreads natural oils throughout the coat, which helps to keep it looking lustrous. It is best to brush your dog at least once a week – more if they have a long coat. Those with wire coats should use a slicker brush, while those with softer coats can get by with a bristle brush.
Omega-Fatty Acids
Many supplements on the market contain omega fatty acids, which are excellent for both human and canine health. These nutrients help to promote a shiny coat by keeping the skin healthy and moisturized. In addition, you can find omega-fatty acids in fish oil supplements and some types of kibble. Just be sure to talk to your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new supplement, as they will be able to advise you on the best type and dosage for your pet.
Using Natural Shampoos
There are many all-natural shampoos on the market that you can use to clean your dog’s coat without stripping away the natural oils. These products often contain ingredients like oatmeal, which can help soothe irritated skin, or aloe vera, which is excellent for keeping the coat soft and shiny. You may even want to try making your own shampoo at home. Many recipes are available online that use ingredients like apple cider vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. Brands like Burt’s Bees even make all-natural grooming products for dogs!
High-Grade Treats
There are several different types of treats on the market that help with skin and coat health. These products often contain ingredients like omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that can all contribute to a healthy coat. You may even want to talk to your veterinarian about adding a supplement like Zesty Paws Omega Bites Skin & Coat Support Supplement to your dog’s diet. This product contains a blend of omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that can help to keep your pup’s coat looking its best.
Herbal Supplements
Brands such as Nature’s Herbs for Pets make a wide variety of herbal supplements for dogs. Horsetail, which is high in silica and helps preserve a healthy coat, skin, and bones, may be given to your dog as herbal supplements. Spirulina includes vitamins B and protein in abundance. Consult your veterinarian on the proper dosage if you want to start feeding your dog herbal medications.
Bathe At Least Once A Month
Bathing your dog too often can strip away the natural oils in their coat, leading to a dull, lifeless appearance. It is best to wash your dog at least once a month – more if they get dirty frequently – using a shampoo for their particular coat type. For example, those with wire coats should use a shampoo made for such coats, while those with softer coats can get by with a milder shampoo. Just do your research and talk to your vet using any new product on your pup.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is excellent for both human and canine health and can help to promote a shiny coat by keeping the skin healthy and moisturized. You can find coconut oil in most grocery stores – be sure to get the pure, unrefined variety. You can apply coconut oil to your dog’s coat using your hands or a brush until evenly distributed. Be careful not to use too much, as this can lead to an oily coat.
You can also add coconut oil to your dog’s food – start with a small amount and increase as needed. Just be sure to talk to your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new supplement, as they will be able to advise you on the best type and dosage for your pet.
Try An Oatmeal Bath
Have you noticed that your dog scratches a lot? Oatmeal baths may help soothe the skin and fur, preventing them from scratching themselves and losing the sheen in their coat. Combine finely ground oatmeal with warm water in a tub for 5-10 minutes, and your dog will feel calm and stop itching. Oatmeal baths are also excellent for preventing hot spots. You can find oatmeal products made specifically for pets in most pet stores.
Conclusion
There are several different ways to help keep your dog’s coat looking its best; be sure to talk to your veterinarian before trying anything new, as they will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your pup. Several options are available, from supplements and shampoos to high-grade treats and coconut oil. Just be sure to do your research and find what works best for you and your dog!