Dog Dandruff: What You Need to Know About It

Are you noticing some loose flakes on your dog’s fur lately? It could be dandruff! Before you panic, though, know that dog dandruff is a pretty common problem and is often treatable. That said, it may be more than just simple dandruff and is a symptom of an underlying problem. As always, with any pet health-related concern, going to the vet for a thorough check is a good idea.
 
Knowing more about dog dandruff can help you determine if your furry friend needs to be rushed to the veterinary clinic. Earthwise Pet Nutrition Center & Wellness Spa, your trusted dog groomer in Bentonville, shares some of the things you need to know about canine seborrhea.

What Is Canine Seborrhea and Why Do Some Dogs Have It?

Dandruff is usually a secondary symptom of another condition. It may be caused by an allergy or even a genetic disorder. Like in humans, dandruff in dogs shows as scaly and itchy white flakes and red skin. In pets, they are often found on the back and flanks but may also appear on the face. They are usually worse in the skin folds.
 
Some of the underlying conditions that cause dandruff include:
 

• Allergies

• Bacterial infections

• Cushing’s disease

• Dietary problems

• Endocrine disorders

• External or internal parasites

• Environmental factors

• Obesity

• Yeast infections

 
What Are the Symptoms of Canine Seborrhea?

Seborrhea in canines can either be dry (seborrhea sicca) or oily (seborrhea oleosa). It is not uncommon for dogs to have both dry and oily dandruff at the same time. While a few flakes every now and then should not be cause for concern, you should watch out for these:

• Extreme amount of flakes
• Noticeable itching and discomfort
• Foul odor coming from the skin
• Redness of the skin

 
How Do You Treat Dandruff Based on the Cause?
 

You must determine what’s causing the allergies before starting a treatment plan. The vet is the best person to decide what treatment should be given to your dog. But to give you an idea of what you can expect, here are the common treatments given to dogs suffering from dandruff as a secondary symptom:

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For Allergies

Environmental allergies are common with dogs, but so are food allergies. That’s why vets often want to rule out food allergies first. If determined that it is indeed food that’s causing dandruff, a simple diet change may be recommended.

For Skin Infection

Both bacteria and yeast can cause dandruff, and these types of infections are normally found on the skin of dogs, so it’s unlikely that they picked those infections up somewhere during their daily walks. If their dandruff is caused by a skin infection, they could be given either a topical or an oral antiseptic, depending on how bad the infection is.

For Diseases Related to the Immune System

Sebaceous adenitis is a disease of the immune system that may also cause dandruff. What this disease does is destroy the skin’s oil glands. Vets often recommend topical solutions, but they may also instruct you to give oral medication.
 

For Endocrine-Related Disorders

Cushing’s disease and hypothyroidism are the most common types of endocrine-related problems in dogs. When oral medication doesn’t improve the dog’s condition, they may be given a thyroid hormone treatment as well.
 

What Breeds Are Predisposed to Dog Dandruff?

As mentioned, dandruff is often a secondary symptom. However, for certain breeds, it can be a primary condition that is inherited. These breeds commonly suffer from primary seborrhea:

• Basset Hounds
• Cocker Spaniels
• Dachshunds
• English Springer Spaniels
• German Shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
• Labrador Retrievers
• West Highland White Terriers

 
Conclusion

It can be heartbreaking for dog owners like you to see your beloved furry buddy scratching and suffering from itchy dandruff, especially when you don’t catch the symptoms early. One way to catch such skin problems on time is to have regular dog grooming done. If you find out that your dog is suffering from any skin issue, don’t wait until it gets worse before taking them to the veterinarian.
 
If you are looking for a dog groomer in Bentonville that you can trust with your beloved pet, choose Earthwise Pet. Our team of expert groomers and stylists can help ensure that your dog’s skin and coat are always healthy. Contact us to know about our services and products for your dearest pets!