Ever wondered how some of the most successful dogs in the Crufts show ring get that gloss, healthy coat? Follow these 5 simple steps!
Assessment
Ask yourself why your dog’s coat isn’t looking its best. All dogs experience some coat loss or a little ‘scurf’ from time to time but don’t worry, moulting is a natural process making way for new skin cells and hair follicles.
However, if your dog is moulting very heavily and frequently, scratching, licking or nibbling excessively; or if bald or inflamed areas of skin are evident then it is important to seek veterinary advice, and rule out medical problems such as allergies, parasites and metabolic conditions.
Grooming
Increasing grooming time (with appropriate tools for the breed/coat type) is one of the best ways to promote healthy skin and encourage coat growth. If left, dead skin and hair will begin to clog up the pores so removing it will help to stimulate the natural oils and create a nice healthy base for new growth.
Cleansing
Periodically the skin and coat can be fed from the outside with a mild emollient shampoo and conditioner. There are plenty of natural products on the market with conditioning properties. Washing your dog too frequently (unless your vet has recommended otherwise) can cause the natural oils to be stripped from the coat, but bathing in accordance with your breed’s requirement is beneficial.
Nutrition
Feed the skin and coat from the inside as well as the outside. For healthy, supple skin and a rich, glossy coat, ensure that your dog is fed an appropriate diet which includes effective levels of supportive nutrients.
The key nutrients contributing towards a healthy skin and coat are protein and fat. Arden Grange Prestige is a popular recipe with the dog show fraternity due to its higher levels. It is also a rich source of vitamins A, C and E, biotin, riboflavin, copper and zinc.
Supplementation
Commercial complete dog foods contain the correct levels of vitamins and minerals your pet needs. Some commercial diets include extra supplements in their formulations to support specific areas.
All Arden Grange diets contain naturally derived vitamins where possible (for optimal bioavailability), chelated organic minerals (chelation is a special process which ensures efficient absorption from the gut and transfer to the target tissues) and yucca extract.
If you choose to give separate supplements, care should be taken when adding extras to an already complete and balanced commercial pet food. Take advice from your pet food manufacturer and the manufacturer of your chosen supplement to avoid potential over supplementation which can be harmful.
Note
As a responsible and ethical company, Arden Grange fully appreciates that caution must be taken when discussing the potential benefits of nutritional supplements. It is against the law to make medical claims. Whilst the food, ingredients and supplements discussed are safe and natural, and may be beneficial to some dogs, we must highlight that they are not a substitute for veterinary intervention in the case of a sick animal.
For more advice about pet sensitivities or to find your nearest Arden Grange stockist, please visit www.ardengrange.com
