As any pet owner knows, one of life's simple pleasures is petting your favorite dog. Running a hand over a soft coat of thick, shiny fur feels good to you and your dog. Unfortunately, if your dog has poor skin health, that simple pleasure might not be so pleasant.

Signs of a Problem with Your Dog's Skin

• Dry, flaky skin
• Excessive scratching, licking or rubbing
• Excessive shedding
• Hair loss and/or bald patches

What can you do?

• Check for pests. Examine your dog's coat and skin thoroughly for the presence of ticks, fleas, lice or other parasites. If you spot any, ask your vet for advice and follow the appropriate treatment.
• Consider allergies. If your dog is pest-free and otherwise healthy, his discomfort may be caused by an allergic reaction to something in their environment, such as pollen, dust or mold. Allergic dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that results in licking, scratching, loss of fur and dry, flaky skin. Learn more about allergic dermatitis.
• Talk to your vet. Skin conditions can have a wide range of causes - from parasites to allergies, from hormonal imbalances to bacterial infections, stress and more. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian about your dog's individual health and treatment options.
  
• Feed your dog well. Many dogs can benefit from a high quality food formulated especially for skin health and sensitivities. Look for one containing high quality protein, essential fatty acids and antioxidants -important nutrients that can help protect your dog's skin. Your veterinarian may also recommend a therapeutic food if they diagnose your pet with specific conditions. 

You can also look into a variety Science Diet®  dog foods made especially for adult dogs with dry, flaky, itchy and sensitive skin.