Has your pooch been leaving behind white flakes on their favorite spot on the couch? Your canine companion might have dandruff, which could be a sign of health problems. Join our Corpus Christi vets to learn about signs and treatments for dandruff in dogs.
Do dogs really get dandruff?
Indeed, they do! Similar to humans, dogs can develop dandruff due to dead skill cells flaking off more quickly than usual and landing on their fur or body hair. You might notice these dry flakes when you pet or scratch your dog because they tend to collect on the back of dogs, particularly near the tail.
Your dog's skin, like yours, has glands that produce iul (sebum), which helps to keep the skin hydrated and supple. If the glands produce too much sebum, it can cause imbalances and dandruff. Dogs are susceptible to both types of seborrheic dermatitis: seborrhea sicca (dry) and seborrhea (oily).
Why do dogs get dandruff?
Any breed of dog can develop dandruff, and it can happen for a number of reasons. Genetic conditions, such as primary seborrhea, which affects Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels, are among the causes, but environmental or health-related issues are the most common ones.
Although not exhaustive, here are some common causes of dandruff in dogs:
Dry Air
Like their human families, dogs are likely to experience dry skin during the winter. This problem can worsen in places where central (or "forced") heat is the primary means of home heating. Dry air may be to blame if your dog appears flimsy during the winter.
External Parasites
In addition to external parasites that can live on your dog's skin and cause them great distress, dry skin can also cause itching in dogs. Well-known Cheyletiella mite parasites are large enough to be seen without a microscope and have a dandruff-like appearance, hence their nickname, "Walking Dandruff." Consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent parasites if your dog's "dandruff flakes" begin to move on their own. Certain parasites, like mites, can spread quickly to other household pets.
Nutrition Issues
An improper or unbalanced diet can affect your dog's skin and coat. The health of your pet's skin and hair depends on foods high in fatty acids, especially omega-3s and omega-6s. However, only your veterinarian is qualified to determine whether your pet needs extra nutrition.
Skin Infections
Because skin bacteria and fungi are adept at taking advantage of holes or weaknesses in your dog's skin, they can also cause dog dandruff. It is necessary to appropriately treat these underlying conditions in order to solve the dandruff issue.
Allergies
Skin issues are usually one of the first signs of an allergy in your dog, either to a food or something in his surroundings. In addition to other symptoms like recurrent skin and ear infections, dogs with allergies may exhibit seasonal variations in shedding and itching. Also frequently seen is dandruff.
Hormonal Conditions
Your dog may be more vulnerable to secondary infections if they have a compromised immune system and skin conditions like Cushing's or hypothyroidism.
Idiopathic (Spontaneous) Seborrhea
The term "idiopathic" refers to dandruff that is not treatable, meaning that although medications can effectively alleviate symptoms of dry, flaky skin in dogs, the underlying cause may remain unknown. For additional information on managing your pet's condition, speak with your veterinarian.
Although dandruff is annoying and can be uncomfortable for many dogs, it is usually not a cause for concern if it is mild or seasonal. If your pet exhibits signs of dry, flaky skin in addition to these symptoms, take him or her to the vet for a physical examination:
- Itchiness
- Skin odor
- Excessive dandruff
- Loss of hair/fur
- Irritated, red skin
- Excessive licking of paws or legs
- Signs of feeling unwell or being uncomfortable
Your dog's symptoms and your vet's findings will determine the next course of action, which could include further diagnostic testing to confirm any issues such as underlying health problems, allergic reactions, or potential parasites.
Treatment for Dog Dandruff
Luckily, most milder cases of dog dandruff can be treated at home with a combination of instructions and guidelines from your primary vet, and these helpful tips:
- Groom your pet regularly to ensure their skin isn't overly oily and removes dead hair. Check with your vet before using grooming products on your dog.
- Bathing your dog can help with dandruff outbreaks as well as bacterial and fungal skin infections. Your veterinarian may prescribe a medicated shampoo for your dog; carefully follow the directions. Don't over-bathe your dog, as this could aggravate the dandruff!
- Supplements can be helpful, but be aware that many commercial supplements are not heavily regulated for pets. Ask your vet for recommendations.
- Use a humidifier in your home if the air is dry. During winter months especially, your dog (and your family!) could find this helpful for preventing dry skin.