Throughout life, the skin of a dog, like that of a person, is constantly updated. New cells replace the old ones, which die off and exfoliate. In a healthy pet, such a natural process takes place almost imperceptibly.
If dandruff in dogs has become visible to the eyes, this may be due to disturbances in the body or diseases.
It usually has a different color - from white to dark gray. The size of the flakes is also significantly different. Dandruff in dogs can be both very small (like flour), and, conversely, large. It is also divided into dry and oily. In most cases, it has a sharp bad smell.
Dandruff can appear in dogs both on the surface of the whole body, and on certain parts. Initially, it occurs directly on the base of the tail and then spreads along the back.
The question of why dandruff appears is of concern to many dog owners. The reasons may be the following:
- allergy or oncology;
- bacterial, viral or fungal diseases;
- diabetes;
- hormonal disorders;
- eczema;
- parasites;
- metabolic disorder ;
- stress;
- lack of necessary care for pet hair;
- malnutrition.
The appearance of the dog with the appearance of such a problem changes significantly. Wool noticeably dims and even after a little time may begin to fall out. In advanced cases, bald patches appear.
Dog dandruff can affect its behavior. The pet may begin to itch, become lethargic or, conversely, restless. He may lose his appetite, but obesity may also occur.
How to quickly get rid of dandruff? First of all, when the first scales appear, it is necessary to show the four-legged friend to a qualified veterinarian. He will determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
If dandruff is cosmetic, then you can cope with it yourself at home.
First of all, you should buy a soft brush and comb the dog 1-2 times a day. Such actions will resemble a massage, which will improve blood flow to the hair follicles and skin.
Next, it is worth changing the diet of your beloved pet, increasing the number of foods rich in vitamins and essential trace elements. In this situation, the dog usually recovers quickly and grows new coat.
Do not forget about swimming. 1-2 times a month, the pet should take baths with
therapeutic dandruff shampoos. Means that dry the skin of the dog are best avoided. If possible, after water procedures, the pet’s hair is treated with a special moisturizing conditioner or spray.
Often, dandruff in dogs appears during the heating season. In this case, a humidifier will help to solve the problem, which will not allow the pet's skin to dry out.
To prevent this kind of problem, do not forget about prevention, which consists in the following:
- the dog must eat properly and additionally receive vitamins;
- Do not bathe your pet very often, but the choice of shampoo should be taken very seriously;
- it is necessary to minimize the likelihood of stress in a four-legged friend;
- regularly need to show the dog to the veterinarian.
These are simple rules!