Instructions
Feed your dog a nutritious diet with the proper balance of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, including omega fatty acids and Vitamin E. About 20-25 percent of the diet should be protein.
Add one teaspoon of olive, sunflower, safflower, canola, flaxseed or fish oil to your dog's daily food. This will add shine to the coat and help to reduce shedding.
Brush your dog at least once a week. If your dog is of the more shedding variety, do it more often. This distributes the natural oils, prevents matting and helps minimize dust and dirt. Besides, most dogs love it.
Try different dog shampoos. There are moisturizing shampoos for a dry or brittle coat, oatmeal shampoo for itchy, irritated skin and dandruff and botanical or herbal shampoos for an overall healthier coat. Biotin helps with dry skin and panthenol adds shine to the coat (see Resources below).
Take your dog to a veterinarian for regular checkups, which should include inspection of the entire coat, including the tail and paws. Sometimes skin problems and hair loss may be caused by a medical condition.
How to Keep a Dog's Coat Healthy and Shiny
I'd be lying if I said dogs like to have pretty coats. I don't think they really care. However, it's important to the two-legged-and a shiny coat is a healthy coat. Here are some ways to keep your canine's coat looking its loveliest.