Whether you have a long haired dog or a short haired one, the health of your pet's skin and coat are a very important part of his overall health, thus they require specific care. A dog's skin serves a number of vital functions, like protection from the environment and temperature regulation and it also retains moisture, all very important aspects when it comes to your dog's health.
There are of course a series of questions that may rise when it comes to the process of keeping your dog's skin and coat healthy in the most natural way possible: what products should you use? How often should you bathe the dog? How to choose the right grooming salon?... And so on.
While opinions are pretty much varied when it comes to all this, there are a few basics that you should follow:
First thing in keeping your dog's skin healthy is the right nutrition. Food that is loaded with chemicals, wrong ingredients for the species, processed food will not only cause health issues, but may also have your dog bearing a specific smell, less pleasant than desired. Best way to go is natural, non-processed diets.
It is advisable to bathe your dog about once a month, as part of the detox process. Bathing your dog too often is definitely not advisable, as you will be removing the natural oils from his skin. Yet proper hygiene is extremely important as a dog's skin can also be penetrated by toxins that can accumulate in the body and cause even further health issues.
Never shave your dog down to the skin. It is actually a good idea to trim his coat a little in the summer heats, and on the same note you can leave it a little longer in winter when it is colder.
If your dog is quite a passionate swimmer, or maybe just likes a dip in the ocean every now and then, it is advisable to give him a good rinse afterward, so his skin does not dry out and become brittle.
Try using products that do not contain artificial ingredients for your dog's hygiene, and most definitely it is not advisable to use products that are designed for humans. Your dog's skin is different, thus it needs specific care with using products specifically meant for dogs.
Comb your dog regularly, if possible every day, it will be great for the flow of skin and the body's energy as well.
Choose the right grooming salon for your furry friend, one that provides a stress free environment, with no excessive noise, or tight cages, one that is not over crowded, or over heated. You do not want your pet's grooming process to be a torture to him.
Caring for your dog's skin health is highly important. As they say, it is always better and easier to prevent an issue than to actually have to treat it. Not to mention, your furry friend definitely deserves all the care and attention, to match his unconditioned and sincere love and affection.
