4 Ways to keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy

Are you wondering how to make your dog’s coat shiny and lustrous as of those beautiful four legged creatures seen in television ads and movies? Well, a shiny coat is a sure sign that your pet is in their peak of good health. A healthy nutrition promotes good health and a lustrous coat.

So, if you feel that your pet’s coat is dull and lifeless you need to do a check if they are getting enough nutrition and take them to the vet to find out if they have an underlying medical condition. Parasites like tapeworms, roundworms and hookworms can cause a dry and flaky coat in your dogs as they deprive them of nutrition. Infections, thyroid disease, kidney disease or fleas and ticks can cause poor coat conditions.

Once your vet gives you a clean bill of health you need to concentrate on giving them a highly nutritious diet.

Here is what you need to do:

• Feed them food that is high in Omega 3 fatty acids. So salmon, sardines and tuna are a rich source of this. Check with your vet if it is fine to feed your pet these fishes and ask them about the health supplements you can also give them.
• Groom your pet regularly. Brush your dog at least once a day. This stimulates the skin and hair follicles that will naturally increase the production of skin oils that will make their coat shiny.
• Bathe your dog regularly. How often you bathe your dog depends on the length of their coat and how often they make themselves dirty. Bathing your dog too often can remove the essential oils from the coat. Use a moisturising shampoo and conditioner that has vitamin E oil that is suited to your pet’s skin.
• Add a little oil to their food. Oil helps to keep their coat healthy and will clear skin conditions. You can add a teaspoon of either vegetable oil, olive oil or coconut oil to their food. Make sure you do not add too much oil as it would lead to diarrhea.

You can always contact your vet for their professional advice and guidance.

Happy Parenting!