Natural Ways to Make Your Dog's Coat Shinier

Proper nutrition and regular grooming are natural ways to make your dog's coat shinier. Poor nutrition shows in your dog's coat while a bright shiny coat indicates good health. No matter the breed or coat type, you must provide the proper balance of protein, vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. Internal and external care are equally important to ensure a healthy coat.

  1. Nutrition

    • Hair is made up of 95 percent protein. A daily diet for a healthier coat should be comprised of 25 to 30 percent protein. If the protein requirement is not met it can result in a coat that is without pigment and brittle. The coat will shed easily and regrow slowly. Omega 3 fatty acids will also improve the health and shine of your dog's coat. You can add fatty acids to your dog's diet by including olive oil each day. For dogs under 50 lbs., pour 1 tsp. over the food. For dogs over 50 lbs., add 1 tbsp. Flaxseeds are also rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Add 1 tsp. of the seeds to your dog's food. Fish oil can also be squirted on food.

    Internal Cleansing

    • In addition to providing proper nutrition, it is equally important to have your dog checked for internal parasites such as worms. Parasites may sap essential nutrients and cause your dog's coat to lose its shine and quality. As part of a wellness exam, your veterinarian may suggest a fecal exam to check for parasites.

    Grooming

    • Regular brushing or combing will help make your dog's coat shinier by removing dirt and helping to spread the natural oils. Regular grooming prevents tangles, cleans the skin and allows you to regularly check for fleas. Different coats have different grooming needs. A boxer's short, smooth coat only needs brushing once a week. Use a rubber brush to remove loose dead skin and use a bristle brush for the removal of dead hair. Rub your short-haired dog with a chamois cloth for a shiny coat. A dog with short, dense hair that mats easily, like a retriever, should have tangles removed with a slicker brush. Use a bristle brush to catch dead hair. Remember to comb the tail. A dog with a long, luxurious coat, like a Yorkshire terrier, needs daily grooming. Tangles should be removed everyday with a slicker brush before brushing her coat with a bristle brush.

    Bathing

    • For a shinier coat, the ASPCA recommends a bath every three months. During the summer more bathing may be necessary depending on how much time your dog spends outside. Use a mild shampoo that is safe for your dog. Shampoos and conditioners for humans should not be used because they are too harsh for your dog's delicate skin. The pH is different and will result in dry, flaky skin. Shampoos and conditioners are available for every type of dog coat.

    Special Needs

    • Bathing certain breeds like pugs and shar peis require special attention because of wrinkles, folds and loose facial skin. Clean folds with damp cotton and thoroughly dry the skin and hair in these areas. This prevents bacteria and dirt from accumulating in the folds which can result in infections, skin irritation and damage to the coat.