German Shorthaired Pointers and Dry Skin

German shorthaired pointers have short coats that expose their skin to a variety of conditions that result in dry skin. Along with environmental factors, the food and treats your pointer consumes also effects skin and coat quality. If you dog is suffering from dry skin there are several ways to treat this condition at home as well as prevent it from reoccurring. Knowing what causes it is key to finding effective treatments and establishing a feeding and grooming routine that nourishes your dog̵7;s tired, dry skin.

  1. Causes

    • Dry skin is caused by allergies to food, the environment and shampoos. Poor quality foods have additives and preservatives that can cause skin dryness. Allergens such as pollen and household scents can also irritate skin and cause dryness. Heavily scented shampoos or poor quality shampoos also pull the oils from the skin and coat causing dryness.

    Treatements

    • Once the cause is determined, appropriate treatments should be administered to prevent hot spots or lesions from scratching and chewing. Feeding a quality food made from whole meat ingredients helps prevent dry skin. Incorporate treats and foods that include omega fatty acids that help replenish oils to make the skin and coat supple. Use medicated pet sprays to reduce skin irritation and encourage healing of the follicles.

    Prevention

    • Do not over bath German shorthaired pointers to prevent drying out the skin and coat. This breed does not require regular baths. Instead, a brushing every other day cleans the skin by removing dirt and dead hair. Brushing also disperses natural oils that keep the skin and coat of the German Pointer soft and pliable. Also, use skin nourishing pet shampoos and conditioners such as oatmeal to replenish tired, dry skin and brittle hair.

    Considerations

    • Consider using a humidifier in the room where your dog spends most of his time to keep the air from pulling moisture from your dog̵7;s skin. Provide fresh clean water at all times to keep the skin hydrated, and use doggie clothes to protect skin from allergens. Ask your veterinarian about dosage recommendations for over-the-counter antihistamines that can reduce allergic reactions that result in dry skin.