Dog-Gone Gorgeous: How-To Achieve a Healthy, Shiny Dog Coat

Your dog’s coat does more than keep your dog warm during cold weather. Your dog’s coat is an indicator of their internal health. To keep your dog as healthy as they can be, you want to provide what they need for a shiny dog coat and healthy skin. How can you help your dog’s coat glow? It's more than just following a great grooming routine and using the right grooming products.

Why A Shiny Dog Coat Matters
(Spoiler: It’s More Than Just Looks)

A shiny coat acts as a glowing review of how well you care for your dog. A healthy coat also lets you know that your dog’s nutritional needs are likely being met. And a change in diet will help you identify if your four-legged friend has developed stress or illness.

What Can Cause a Dull or Dirty Coat?

When your dog’s coat isn’t glossy and gleaming, your dog may have an underlying health condition. Some of the most common issues that can dull your dog’s coat include:

• Metabolic issues
• Hormonal imbalance
• Chronic diarrhea
• Cancer
• Fleas
• Intestinal worms
  
  

Skin Conditions Can Also Lead to a Drab Coat

Your dog’s coat and skin health are interconnected. If you notice your dog’s coat is dull, you may want to check their skin for rashes, scrapes, or parasites.

If you notice your dog’s coat has become dull, you will want to make an appointment with your veterinarian.

How Can You Improve Your Dog’s Coat Health?

When our dogs look good, they feel good and we feel good. So, how can you help your pet shine as brightly as you know they can?

1. A properly balanced diet is the foundation for a healthy coat. High-quality dog food and treats often have higher levels of ‘good fats’ and other ingredients that help your dog glow from the inside out.
   
   A biologically appropriate raw food diet is an excellent way to avoid unnecessary preservatives that will dull your dog’s coat while providing your pooch with a tasty source of healthy fats.
   
   Essential fatty acids are the key to a shiny coat. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are superfoods for your dog’s skin and coat.
   
   You can find these in flaxseeds, salmon, fish oil, and coconut oil. Adding herbal supplements to your pet’s diet is a simple way to provide your dog with the building blocks for a healthy coat.
   
   Zinc also supports a healthy coat. Zinc reduces skin irritation and combats bacterial infections. Some foods that are high in zinc include beef, salmon, and chicken.
   
   
2. Bathe your dog regularly with high-quality, natural grooming products. The trick is to bathe your dog with once dirt and grime begin to build, but not so frequently that you’re stripping your dog’s coat of its natural oils. Choosing the right dog shampoo is essential.
   
   
3. Brush your dog. Even short-haired dogs benefit from being brushed daily. Brushing your best friend’s coat removes dead fur and dead skin cells.
   
   
4. Provide your dog with parasite prevention. Parasites can do a number on your dog’s coat and skin. Preventing bites and internal parasites is as easy as making an appointment with your vet.
   
   
5. Have your dog groomed from time-to-time. We all get busy. When you bring your dog to the groomer, your dog will be pampered and their coat will get a boost in shine and health.

Let Your Dog Shine Bright!

Your dog deserves to shine their brightest. A shiny dog coat exudes health and is a sign that your dog feels great. Whether you’re looking for the best diet for your dog’s health or the tools to keep their coat radiant, we have what you need.

If you want to learn more about how to help your dog stay groomed and smelling great, dive into our guide on dog grooming.