LOOKING AFTER YOUR DOGS COAT AND SKIN
The general condition of your dog's skin and coat are good indicators of his health. A healthy coat should be shiny and healthy skin should be supple and clear, not greasy, flaky, or bumpy. Building a healthy coat and skin begins from the inside out. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and the cells of the skin turn over rapidly. For most dogs, virtually all of the skin is covered with hair, which is either being shed regularly or, in non-shedding breeds, is growing constantly. In order to maintain the skin and hair in a healthy state, your dog requires a properly balanced diet that contains high quality digestible proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins, as well as provides the appropriate number of calories to meet its energy needs. Although health and nutrition influence the shine and texture of your dog’s coat from the inside, regular grooming and skin care on the outside will also help keep your dog's coat clean and free of tangles, no matter what type of hair coat he has. A dog whose diet is inadequate to meet his dietary needs will have a dull, dry hair coat and will often shed excessively. Feeding your dog a diet complete with protein, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids is a great start. Supplements and treats formulated with skin-nourishing supplements are a great way to reward your dog and care for his coat at the same time. Some good relatively cheap additives include Salmon Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Oily Fish, Royal Jelly, and Flaxseed oil. Ideally you should be brushing your dogs coat once a week, this will keep the hair tangle free, stuimulate oil production and get rid of loose bits of dirt and dry skin. Collies don't need to be bathed regularly, once or twice a year to get rid of the old coat should be sufficient. Collie's have a double coat, and you should use a brush that is going to get down to the undercoat. With Rough Collies most owners prefer a long pin brush - please see advice on how to groom your Collie HERE. If you would like to make your own grooming spray see some recipes HERE Sources This information is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow the advice provided by your veterinarian. |
