A proper diet, which contains all the nutrients your pet needs for his skin, can help boost his health.
The skin is the largest organ of the dog’s body. It performs a vital function, protecting the animal’s body from the damaging effects of aggressive environmental factors. Nutrition is very important to keep your pet’s skin healthy, as it helps the skin perform its functions effectively.
Dog’s skin and coat
A dog’s skin and coat make up an average of 12% of its weight. This organ is important for the pet’s health and development. The skin consists of three differently structured layers, each of which performs a specific function:
- The top layer is the epidermis. Serves as a barrier to aggressive environmental factors.
- The middle layer is the dermis. Gives the skin elasticity and elasticity.
- The lower layer is hypodermis. It is characterized by a large number of fat cells and provides thermal insulation.
The dog’s skin performs a very important function, protecting it from environmental factors and external parasites that may be bothering your pet. In addition, the skin protects against moisture loss, regulates body temperature and serves as a base for the growth of your pet’s coat. Your dog’s skin needs to be carefully cared for in order to maintain his overall health.
What skin problems can your dog have?
One possible problem is damage or destruction of the protective biofilm on your dog’s skin. The film is formed by the secretion of skin secretion that protects the skin from negative factors. Normally, this biofilm protects the skin with beneficial bacteria that help prevent the growth of “bad” bacteria that cause irritation or other problems.
Some dog breeds are predisposed to specific skin conditions. For example, dogs with deep folds of skin (such as pugs or bulldogs) sometimes have inflammatory conditions because bacteria can accumulate in the folds. Small dogs with beautiful coats often have very sensitive skin. They are at a higher risk of hair loss, brittleness or reduced color intensity. This can happen, for example, in Zwergschnauzers or Shih Tzu.
How diet affects the health of your dog’s skin
The right diet helps your dog’s skin to fulfill its protective functions effectively. The diet should contain all the necessary nutrients.
For healthy skin and coat, your dog needs protein. It is better that the protein is easily digestible and comes from high quality sources. This makes it easier for the gastrointestinal tract to digest and absorb the protein. Polyunsaturated fatty acids also support skin and coat health. If your dog’s diet contains adequate amounts of omega fatty acids, it can help your dog’s skin and coat health.
A diet containing vitamins A, B and D helps to protect the body from unfavorable external factors, and the addition of zinc stimulates normal skin cell function.
Copper helps to maintain color saturation.
Dogs can be hypersensitive or even allergic to certain food ingredients, which can lead to signs of skin irritation.
If you are concerned about your dog’s skin condition, consult your veterinarian. He or she can advise you on hypersensitivities, allergies and food choices.
