DIY Dog Dry Skin Treatment (and Handy Medications)

Dry skin is a problem, and not one that only affects people. Dogs suffer from this affliction as well, and because of that, it pays to understand the ins and outs of dog dry skin treatment. Learn some cheap and easy DIY treatments here, as well as when to take your dog to the vet.

During the winter, dry skin is a common problem that can become quite irritating. While we pet parents have soaps loaded with moisturizers and lotions we can put on our flaking, cracked skin, our canine companions aren’t quite as lucky. That’s right -- just because they are cloaked in fur doesn’t mean that their skin doesn’t suffer the ravages of the season. And while dry skin can occur during any season, it is most often a result of excessive exposure to the warm, dry air indoors and the chapping effects of the cold air outside during the winter.

Here are a few dry dog skin treatments.

Grooming Tips

Daily brushing is a good place to start, as part of the itchiness might be caused by a lack of natural oils on your dog's skin, causing their fur to seem dry and brittle. Brushing can help stimulate the production of these oils, helping their fur regain its natural sheen as well as reduce itchiness.

Bathing is another good way to soothe itchy skin, just make sure you don’t overdo it, as bathing can actually end up removing the very oils you are trying to get back. Use a medicated dog shampoo containing oatmeal protein, or give them an oatmeal protein colloidal, which you can make by adding 4 cups of finely ground oatmeal (per 20 lbs of dog) into a lukewarm bath, gently washing your dog in the oatmeal bath. After the bath, wipe some tea tree oil, fish oil, baby oil, or even olive oil over your dog’s fur, drying them off by patting their fur, and leave them wrapped in the towel until their fur is dry to ensure that the oils are absorbed into their skin.

Diet Tips

While the cause for dry skin is most likely climate-related, a minor dietary change could make all the difference. A tablespoon or two of flaxseed or olive oil two to three times a week can help replenish some of the essential nutrients your dog needs to keep their skin from drying out. Other foods that can help add some moisture to their skin are a whole raw egg or a single sardine in olive oil, but as these foods can be a bit richer than what they are used to, only give it to them once a week.

A change of dog food could also be a solution, although be sure to check with your vet to be sure any new food you choose will meet your dog's needs. These are a couple of foods specially designed to help keep your dog's fur nice and oily:

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin Beneful Healthy Radiance Skin Premium Edge Skin & Coat

Also, do everything you can to keep your dog well hydrated, as dry skin can become exacerbated by dehydration.

Helpful Medications and Supplements

Certain vitamins and supplements can help alleviate your dog’s itchy skin. Make sure they are loaded up with enough fatty acids, like omega-3 and vitamins E, A, and B3 (niacin), which are all responsible for helping your dog keep its coat shiny and healthy.

There are also a number of over the counter sprays and salves that can offer some immediate relief from itchy, dry skin, such as:

Bayer ExpertCare PetRelief Hc Veterinary Formula Clinical Care

If the condition persists, there are some prescription medications your vet can give you. Often using topical corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation, these drugs are normally only given for serious cases of dry skin, such as pruritus, but if your dog’s dry skin becomes a recurring problem, it might be worth it to ask your vet about one of the following treatments.

Dexamethasone Gentamycin Betamethasone Dipropionate

Other Causes of Dog Dry Skin

Your pet's dry skin could also be caused by an underlying issue such as an endocrine disorder, so if their dry skin doesn't let up, talk to your vet.

7 Common Causes of Dry Dog Skin

No one likes dry, itchy skin, and that goes for dogs too. Not only is dry skin uncomfortable, it can also be a symptom of an underlying condition that needs to be treated before it gets worse.

Dry Dog Skin General Symptoms

The most obvious symptom exhibited by dogs with dry skin is itchiness. A dog with dry skin may scratch, lick, or bite itself -- sometimes to the point of causing injury. A dog with dry skin might also rub up against furniture to try to relieve its itchiness. Other symptoms include hair loss from excessive scratching or skin that appears dry, flaky, scaly, or otherwise irritated.

Possible Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments of Dry Dog Skin

Cause #1: Fleas, mites, or mange

Symptoms: Bites from parasites can irritate your dog’s skin, and some dogs can have an allergic reaction to the parasite’s saliva. Excessive scratching and biting are the primary symptoms, and with fleas, you may see a specific focus on the back and tail area. With mites, you may see dandruff and scaly skin, and ear mites can cause your dog to shake their head violently. With mange, you will often see hair loss, sores, and scabs.
Treatment: Anti-parasitic shampoos, dips, and on-the-spot products can help remove parasites and relieve irritation. First, rid your home of the infestation, and then ask your veterinarian about starting your dog on treatment to avoid future problems.

Cause #2: Allergies

Symptoms: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. Some common allergens include fleas, mold, dust, pollen, perfumes, smoke, medications, shampoos, and food. In addition to scratching, a dog with allergies may exhibit irritated skin, runny eyes, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea, snoring, and paw chewing or swelling.
Treatment: The treatment will depend on your dog’s specific allergy. If your dog is allergic to fleas, it should be on a flea control product. If your dog has food allergies, hypoallergenic food or a diet prescribed by your veterinarian may solve the problem. For other allergies, certain injections can decrease the severity of your dog’s reaction. Supplements and medications may also be recommended in some cases.

Cause #3: Poor Diet

Symptoms: A low-quality diet means that your dog is not receiving the essential nutrients that make for healthy skin and a shiny coat. You may see itching, flaking, and redness.
Treatment: Switch your dog to high-quality food. Your veterinarian may also recommend supplements that contain essential fatty acids.

Cause #4: Irritating Shampoos

Symptoms: Dogs should only be bathed with shampoos intended for dogs. Human shampoos or other harsh shampoos can dry out and irritate your dog’s skin. You may see itching, redness, and flaking.
Treatment: Switch to an all-natural dog shampoo for sensitive skin. Bathe your dog no more than twice a month, as excessive bathing can dry out your dog’s skin and make the problem worse. Your dog’s skin may also benefit from a moisturizing spray or lotion that is made specifically for dogs.

Cause #5: Cold weather

Symptoms: Cold or windy weather -- especially when combined with the dryness caused by indoor heating systems -- can really take a toll on your dog. If their dry skin is caused by seasonal changes, you will see an onset of symptoms like itching and flaking as the weather begins to turn.
Treatment: Limit the time that your dog spends out in the cold and switch to a moisturizing shampoo, like one that contains soothing oatmeal. Brushing your dog’s coat will help to stimulate oil production, and natural products like tea tree oil, calendula extract, fish oil, or vitamin E can be applied directly to your dog’s skin. Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to your dog’s food 2 or 3 times a week can also help to clear up dryness.

Cause #6: Fungal and bacterial infections

Symptoms: Certain conditions can make your dog susceptible to fungal and bacterial skin infections. In addition to scratching, dogs with infections may also exhibit irritated skin (hot spots, redness, crusting, or thickening), hair loss, sores, and scabs.
Treatment: Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medications, and bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics. However, the underlying condition that made your dog’s skin susceptible to the infection must also be treated.

Cause #7: Thyroid diseases

Symptoms: Conditions such as hypothyroidism can cause your dog’s skin to become dry due to a lack of essential hormones. Your dog’s coat may appear dull and brittle, and you may see excessive shedding. Skin thickening and darkening, lethargy, weight gain, behavioral changes, and intolerance to exercise are other common symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Treatment: Dogs with thyroid problems are commonly treated with thyroid hormone replacement drugs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dog getting dry patches on his skin?

There could be a number of reasons why your dog is experiencing dry patches on its skin.Dry skin in dogs can be caused by exposure to harsh weather conditions, particularly cold and dry weather. Dogs can develop allergies to a wide range of things, including food, pollen, dust, and more. Allergies can cause skin irritation and itching, which can lead to dry patches. Fleas, mites, and other parasites can cause skin irritation and dryness in dogs. It's important to keep your dog's fur clean and free of parasites to prevent these issues. A lack of certain nutrients in your dog's diet, particularly essential fatty acids, can lead to dry skin and other skin issues. Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease, can cause skin issues in dogs.

How can I soothe my dog's itchy skin?

If your dog has itchy skin, there are several things you can do to help soothe their discomfort. Regular bathing with a mild, moisturizing dog shampoo can help soothe your dog's itchy skin. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving any residue on their skin. Adding colloidal oatmeal to your dog's bath can help relieve itching and soothe their skin. You can find oatmeal-based shampoos or make your own by grinding oatmeal into a fine powder and adding it to your dog's bath. There are a variety of topical treatments available to soothe your dog's itchy skin, such as creams, sprays, and gels. Some contain ingredients like aloe vera, witch hazel, or hydrocortisone that can help calm irritation. Applying a moisturizing lotion or balm to your dog's skin can help relieve dryness and itching. Look for products specifically designed for dogs, as human products may contain ingredients that can be harmful to pets. Some supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics, may help improve your dog's skin health and reduce itching. Always talk to your vet before giving your dog any supplements.

Can I put coconut oil on my dog for dry skin?

Yes, you can use coconut oil on your dog's skin to help soothe dryness and itchiness. Coconut oil has natural moisturizing properties and can be used to help relieve dry, flaky skin and other skin irritations in dogs. To use coconut oil on your dog, start by selecting a high-quality, organic coconut oil that is free of additives or preservatives. Then, simply apply a small amount of oil to your dog's skin, focusing on the areas that are most dry or irritated. You can either rub the oil directly onto your dog's skin or melt it first and then apply it. While coconut oil is generally safe for dogs, some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to it. Always start with a small amount of coconut oil and monitor your dog's reaction. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling or hives, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian. Additionally, coconut oil should be used as a supplement to, not a replacement for, other treatments recommended by your veterinarian.

How do I know if my dog has mites or dry skin?

It can be challenging to differentiate between mites and dry skin in dogs as they can have similar symptoms. Signs of mites in dogs include intense itching, especially around the ears, head, neck, and tail; scratching, rubbing, or biting at affected areas; redness or inflammation of the skin; scaly or crusty patches on the skin; hair loss or thinning in affected areas, dark discharge or debris in the ears, and skin infections such as hot spots or pyoderma. Symptoms of dry skin in dogs include mild itching or discomfort, dry, flaky, or scaly skin, a dull or lackluster coat, mild redness or irritation of the skin, and no hair loss or thinning. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Your vet can perform skin tests to determine if your dog has mites or other parasites and may recommend treatment with medications or topical ointments. For dry skin, your vet may recommend changes to your dog's diet or grooming routine or may prescribe moisturizing treatments to help soothe their skin.

How do I know if my dog has mange or dry skin?

It can be challenging to differentiate between mange and dry skin in dogs as they can have similar symptoms. Signs of mange in dogs include intense itching, hair loss, scabs and crusts on the skin, and a strong, unpleasant odor. There are two types of mange that can affect dogs: demodectic mange, which is caused by microscopic mites that live in hair follicles, and sarcoptic mange, which is caused by a highly contagious mite that burrows into the skin. Symptoms of dry skin in dogs include mild itching or discomfort, dry, flaky, or scaly skin, a dull or lackluster coat, mild redness or irritation of the skin, and no hair loss or thinning. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Your vet can perform skin tests to determine if your dog has mange or other skin conditions and may recommend treatment with medications or topical ointments. For dry skin, your vet may recommend changes to your dog's diet or grooming routine or may prescribe moisturizing treatments to help soothe their skin.

More on Dog Skin Treatment

Dog and Cat Dermatitis: Itchy Skin in Pets
When Dogs and Cats Itch: Pruritus
Hot Spot Symptoms in Dogs and Cats

This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis, or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.

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