How to Moisturize My Dogs Skin

Dry and flaky skin in dogs can be a symptom of many diseases or conditions, such as thyroid disease, fleas and allergies. Once your veterinarian has examined your dog and delivered a diagnosis and treatment, you may need to help relieve your dog of its dry, itchy skin. Unlike with humans, applying lotion is not the best option as most dogs will lick it off, and the residue would not be good for your carpets and furniture.

Things You'll Need

  • Oatmeal dog shampoo
  • Fatty oil supplement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bath your dog less often. Bathing a dog removes the natural oils from the skin and can cause dry skin. By bathing your dog less often, its own natural oils will moisturize the skin. Veterinarian Paul West of West's Animal Clinic in Norfolk, Virginia, recommends bathing dogs with shampoo only once or twice a year if possible.

    • 2

      Rinse your dog with water in between shampoo bathes if necessary. The water will help remove dirt without removing the natural oils.

    • 3

      Use oatmeal-based shampoos when using a shampoo on your dog. Oatmeal-based shampoos have moisturizing qualities that will help the dog's skin.

    • 4

      Put olive oil, fish oil or vitamin E into your dog's food two to three times a week. Such fatty oils will help the dog produce more natural oils in the skin. Ask your veterinarian which oil and dosage is best for your dog's condition and size.

    • 5

      Give your dog access to water at all times. Water is essential for keeping skin hydrated, making it important that your dog can drink as much as it wants throughout the day.