Dandruff is excessive scales and the skin may or may not be oily. Pet owners may see excessive amounts of dead skin on their dog and they’ll notice their furry friend is itching all the time. A dog’s skin consists of three layers (like human skin), and the top layer — the epidermis — is where the problem of dandruff occurs, according to experts at Tufts University,
Millions of cells get released individually every single day — and millions of new cells replace them. When something goes wrong you have dandruff: abnormal scaling of different cells. The cells stick together instead of sloughing off individually.
👉Learn more about primary and secondary seborrhea and how to treat it in our guide to doggie dandruff.
The epidermal barrier protects dogs from UV damage and prevents bacteria as well as fungus from getting into the body. Dandruff and damaged skin may cause issues for your pup. The skin cells help fight disease and prevent things from getting into the body. Dandruff can also harbor bacteria so it’s essential pet owners address this issue early on.
Our vet explains that certain dog breeds that have dry skin or dandruff (or those that roll in the dirt!) may benefit from baths during colder months and throughout the winter season to help hydrate their skin. During the winter months, the body sometimes can’t keep up with the balance of oils and bacteria, resulting in dry, itchy, and flaking skin. Pet owners should follow the directions on the back of any OTC product before bathing their dog.
👉 As directed by their veterinarian. On average, this may be every 48 to 72 hours, depending on the severity of dandruff and if there are any secondary skin issues.
Always look for shampoos without harsh chemicals but with organic ingredients. The best dog anti-dandruff shampoos address skin problems and mild irritation. Oatmeal dog shampoo is a wonderful option for irritated skin and dry flakes. You’ll find an oatmeal shampoo on our shortlist of best dog dandruff shampoos for dogs with sensitive skin and odor.
While there are many ingredients that are unsafe, we have a list of SAFE ingredients to look for when you choose a shampoo to address itchiness. Make sure to time your topical flea preventives carefully! Follow the directions so you don’t shampoo after your dog is treated for parasites at home.
👉 It’s best to avoid human shampoos because our skin’s pH is different from that of dogs. Like with all shampoos, avoid contact with the eyes.
Conditioners have ingredients with moisturizing properties and are used in conjunction with shampoos. According to VIN, “Conditioners contain various oils/fatty acids, often along with other active ingredients (e.g., oatmeal or pramoxine for antipruritic effects). These products de-tangle hair and help return softness and luster to the coat. They may also serve as a “barrier” to help retain moisture within the epidermis.”
If these special shampoos don’t clear up your dog’s dandruff, it’s important to visit the vet. If your dog is developing a skin infection, has skin lesions, or is itchy and regular baths aren’t helping, you want to schedule a vet appointment as soon as possible. Your vet may recommend a special medicated shampoo that you can’t purchase OTC or other necessary treatments.
A bath does help dogs with dandruff and there are additional ways to be proactive when it comes to doggy dandruff.
Groom and bathe your doggie regularly — Regular bathing and grooming are important because they remove the buildup of dirt and debris on a dog’s skin and prevent potential skin conditions from developing such as itchiness, dry skin, or oily skin. The skin’s reaction after too many bathing sessions may result in dryness so be careful you’re not overbathing.
Add Omega-3 fatty acids to their diet — Consider adding fatty acids to your dog’s diet. Omega 3 fatty acids are a perfect solution, which can be added to your dog’s meals. Start with a small dose. This ingredient is found in fish oil which supports your dog’s heart health, reduces itchy and flaky skin, and can help relieve allergies and joint pain. It usually takes 4-8 weeks to see dandruff resolve after starting an omega-three fatty acid supplement.
Use an air humidifier — Humidifiers are great for dogs when the air is dry. Always get a humidifier with a good filtering process and one that uses distilled water.
