Dog Food For Skin

Dog food for skin is very important for your pet. Proper nutrition will ensure your dog has healthy skin and a healthy coat. You can tell if your dog has healthy skin by looking at it.

Symptoms of Unhealthy Skin

- Dry, flaky skin
- Red, irritated skin
- Scaly skin or scabs on the skin
- Your dog may also scratch or lick his skin excessively
- A dull, dry-looking coat

Nutrients In Dog Food For Their Skin

� Vitamin A - Found in animal foods such as eggs and meat as well as in some vegetables. Protects against skin diseases. It helps the skin function as a barrier to bacteria and viruses.
� Vitamin B3 (niacin)- Found in meat foods, milk, eggs, and in some vegetables. Protects against skin problems such as dermatitis (inflammation of the skin).
� Vitamin E- Found in dietary fat. Necessary for healthy skin, muscles, and immune system. Also protects against heart disease and cancers. Keeps skin supple and hydrated.
� Fatty acids- Found in beef and poultry fat, some plant foods oils, and fish oil, these are present in many commercial pet foods. They help your dog have a thick, glossy coat and also healthy skin. There are several different kinds of fatty acids that your dog needs, and if your dog has dry, itchy skin and a dull, dry coat, he may be lacking an essential fatty acid.
� Protein- Found in animal foods, soy products, and legumes. Contains B Vitamins and fatty acids necessary for healthy skin, muscles, and heart.

Selecting Dog Food Their Skin

Read the label on the dog food package to see what is in the food. You can also visit the website of the dog food manufacturer for more information. Feeding your dog a commercial dog food for their skin will usually provide him with the proper nutrients although some of the cheaper foods may not. Expensive is not necessarily better, though, so take the time to read the label.

There are many factors that go into the selection of a dog food include age, weight, activity level, dietary restrictions, nursing and skin condition. A new tool called the is helpful in sorting out the choices. You can then buy from PetSmart or your local retailer.

Feeding your dog table scraps will probably not provide him with the proper nutrition. Some people prefer to prepare homemade food for their pet, and this is fine, but take the time to research nutritious recipes that will provide your pet with the proper nutrients.

Talk to your vet about any concerns about your dog�s skin or nutrition needs. Ask about the best dog food for their skin.

Sources

Dennis Jewel, Hills Pet Nutrition, Inc. Science and Technology Center

www.PetEducation.com

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