skin is dry and flaky, coat is also dry...?

Question

my best bud has seems to be having trouble with his skin. he's getting older (8) but has always been active and well fed. he is healthy (we've been to our vet just a couple of weeks ago), always been fed human-grade food, receives tons of attention (but not spoiled), and we generally do our research when a problem does arise.

That said, this is the first time i've asked a question, and I'm just wondering if there is something simple that i can add to his food to help his dry skin ( olive oil, sardines...etc). maybe there is something we had not thought of before...

note: his fur is shiny, it seems to be mainly his skin...no fleas, no current meds, no allergies that we are aware of.

it could just be the dry summer air...

we've also tried several fish oils, flax seed oil, olive oil, sardines, omega 3-6- supplements, etc.

vet wasn't too worried about it, but i would like to see some healthy, nourished skin...

eggs! of course...

i currently feed a high quality food (dood, i would eat it myself it it wasn't so bland!) with human grade ingredients. we've also tried the oatmeal blends and making our own food.

some things seem to work for a while, and then the flakes return. perhaps its just the dry environment we now live in.

I'm way into researching dog foods (we have allergy-girl as well as this guy that has never been able to keep weight on!).

thanks for all of your suggestions!

I don't think its the food - I feed a human-grade, organic food mixed with fresh fruits and vegetables (usually part of the meal I prepare for myself).

Answer 1

My dogs have this problem sometimes in the summertime. I have found that the best and cheapest home remedy is already in your kitchen. For a small dog I take 1 egg and mix with about 4 tablespoons of oil (any works, mine like the grease off of hamburgers or bacon) then I mix that with their dog food or just let them lap it out of the bowl. Increase amounts for size of dog, but don't give them more than about 1/2 cup of the oil/grease because it could make them puke.

I have had many dogs and helped my mother who rescues strays, gets them healthy then finds them homes. This recipe has always worked with them. Give it a try!

Answer 2

Olive oil works well for this. I would avoid eggs, they are a common allergen for dogs.

Also, go to www.valleyvet.com and get some Hylyt or Lytar shampoo. Hylyt is soapless, non allergenic, and great for this type of thing. Lytar is a coal tar shampoo (medicated), does not smell the best, but will give you great results. The vet typically sells these for $20-30/bottle. Valleyvet has them for about $7.50.

Answer 3

well umm try keeping the fish oils..

and using oatmeal shampoo and conditioner. Also you may need to up on a really higher food like Eukanuba (trust me it works)

Otherwise get a second opinion from a dif. vet. There are crap vets in the world.....and maybe its simply sumthing your vet overlooked

Answer 4

could just be dry skin, ask your vet.. our vet recommended fish oil capsules for our dog when she was having dry itchy skin problems. make sure you contact your vet to find out exactly which kind to buy!!

Answer 5

You can also try an Oatmeal or Milk and Honey bath that will sooth and moisturize his skin.

Answer 6

I think that olive oil helps -- my dog loves it when I add it to her food.

Answer 7

Hi,
I had the same problem with my dog. I found out that I was bathing him to much. I hope this helps!!!

Answer 8

Get a good ointment or shampoo

Answer 9

I am not sure!!! :) -Ash