Do Dogs Get Dandruff?

Humans aren't the only ones who battle dandruff. A dog can experience the flaky dry skin condition as a result of improper grooming, by living in a dry environment, from lack of nutrition or when battling a parasitic infestation.

Dandruff -- or dead skin cells -- are most notable when the pet hasn't been bathed in several months. The fine white flakes may appear on the surface of the pet's coat, in its dog bed or in areas where the pet rests. Other symptoms of dry skin include brittle fur and a coat that lacks shine.

Grooming to Reduce Dandruff
While bathing the dog to remove dandruff flakes seems like the best way to reduce the skin condition, it can actually trigger reoccurring episodes. Bathing a dog too frequently strips moisturizing oils from its skin, causing dandruff to form. Bathe your pet once every two or three months. This allows the pet to build up natural skin moisturizing oils and reduces dry skin. When the pet requires a bath, use moisturizing dog shampoos that contain oatmeal, tea tree oil, olive oil or other moisturizing ingredients.

Between baths, brush the dog frequently. Routine brushing stimulates circulation in the pet's skin, encourages fur growth and distributes moisturizing skin oils. Deodorizing sprays, fur shine sprays and moistened pet wipes keep the pet's coat clean and odor-free between baths. During dry weather use a humidifier in the home to keep you pet's skin moistened.

Poor Nutrition and Dandruff
Dehydration and lack of nutrients can precipitate dandruff production in dogs. Make sure the pet has access to clean, cool water at all times -- even when crated.

When a dog is fed a diet low in proteins, it may have dry skin. Look at the ingredient list on your package of dog food. Meats, eggs and legumes should top the list. Also look for the addition of fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that will nourish the dog from the inside out. When filler products with a low protein content such as corn or flour rank high on the ingredient list, the pet is more likely to have dry, poorly-nourished skin.

Read more about healthy dog food ingredients HERE.

How Parasites Cause Dry Skin
When a dog is infested with fleas, mites or other parasites, the pet will scratch itself for relief from the nuisances. Persistent scratching of skin treated with topical flea products and shampoos has a tendency to flake. Excessive scratching may lead to hot spots or rashes. Topical cortisone sprays can soothe the pet's skin.

If your pet's dandruff is persistent, seek medical advice from a veterinarian. Some bacterial, parasitic and viral skin infections that require prescription medications can initially resemble dandruff.

Related Articles:
Dog Skin and Coat Health Tips
How to Get Your Pet to Take Medicine or Vitamins
Why Dogs Eat Dirt

Sources and Suggested Further Reading:
Dog Dandruff Guide : What is Dog Dandruff?
Pet Scoops: How to Treat Your Dog's Dandruff: 7 Tips