Should You Feed Your Dog Sensitive Skin Dog Food?

Have you noticed your dog itching and scratching all the time? Are areas of his fur becoming discolored due to persistent licking or chewing? If your dog doesn’t feel comfortable in his skin, it can be a sign that something’s not right, and he may be prone to sensitive skin. One thing you can do that might help maintain your dog’s healthy skin is to switch him to a dog food for sensitive skin.

How do I know if my dog has sensitive skin?

If your dog is itching, scratching, and chewing at his skin, you should make every effort to get to the root of the problem. Your veterinarian can help you figure out whether your dog is suffering from a skin disease or allergies. Allergic dermatitis can be triggered by many different things, from flea bite allergies to seasonal allergies like mold or pollen. The most common sign of allergic dermatitis is itching, scratching, and chewing. Your veterinarian may recommend a variety of treatments, including specialized shampoo or medication.

Could my dog’s skin health be influenced by diet?

Your dog’s health, including skin health, is heavily influenced by his diet. Innovations in nutrition are welcome when it comes to keeping dogs healthy. But before you jump on the bandwagon for a new diet trend for your dog with sensitive skin, make sure to ask your veterinarian what checks out and what doesn’t.

Many good dog foods contain Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in plant sources, like grains, whereas Omega-3 fatty acids are typically found in marine sources. These fatty acids are important components of a dog’s diet and have a variety of biological functions, including promoting healthy skin. Some dogs may benefit from increased levels of Omega fatty acids found in a dog food for sensitive skin.

What should I look for in a sensitive skin dog food?

A dog food formulated for sensitive skin should include: 

• Omega fatty acids
  Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids help nourish skin and promote a healthy coat. Look for dog foods that include a guarantee of Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) or Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) (Omega-3).
• High-quality protein like salmon
  Salmon and other ingredients like fish oil or fish meal are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Looking for a sensitive skin dog food for your dog? Learn more about our sensitive skin and stomach dog food options here.