Skin irritation and itching in dogs can be a nuisance, not just for the dog but also for the concerned pet owner. While there are numerous reasons behind canine skin issues, your pup’s diet is often the primary cause. Learn how your dog’s diet might be causing skin irritation and explore foods that can offer your furry friend some relief.
Which Foods Can Cause Skin Issues in Dogs?
Food allergies or sensitivities are among the top causes of skin problems in dogs. They can experience itchy, inflamed skin, hot spots, and hair loss when fed foods that don’t agree with them. Common foods that may lead to itchy skin include:
- Grains (especially wheat, soy and corn)
- Dairy products and eggs
- Artificial additives and preservatives
- Certain fruits (like citrus)
- Nightshade vegetables (like tomatoes and eggplants)
- Nuts (especially peanuts)
- Chocolate (toxic to dogs in general)
- Spices (like garlic and onion, which are also toxic to dogs)
But it’s not just about allergens. The nutritional content of your dog’s diet also matters. The best ingredients in dog food include essential fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining skin hydration and barrier function. A diet low in fatty acids can result in dry, flaky skin. Additionally, antioxidants found in many fruits and vegetables can help combat oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and supporting your dog’s overall skin health.
Dry Food for Dogs: The benefits for a Healthy Coat and Skin Dry food should be a staple part of your pup’s diet. It’s convenient, has a long shelf life, and offers numerous benefits for your dog’s skin and coat.
Balanced nutrition: High-quality dry food for dogs, such as Open Farm’s Wild-Caught Salmon & Ancient Grains Recipe, are formulated to provide a balanced diet, containing essential nutrients like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are vital for skin hydration and promoting a shiny, healthy coat.
High-quality proteins: Proteins form the basis of most dog foods, but the source matters, especially for dogs with sensitivities. Hypoallergenic proteins like our Grain Free New Zealand Venison Recipe or Pasture-Raised Lamb & Ancient Grains Recipe can benefit dogs with allergic reactions to more common protein sources, such as beef or chicken.
Fiber content: Quality dry dog foods are rich in soluble and insoluble dietary fibers from ingredients like oats, quinoa and pumpkin, aiding digestion. Proper digestion ensures that all the vital nutrients required for skin and coat health are adequately absorbed.
Antioxidant-rich ingredients: Many premium dry foods include antioxidants like cranberries or turmeric. Antioxidants can help counteract oxidative damage, reduce skin inflammation and support overall skin health.
Freeze Dried Raw Food for a Healthy Coat
For dogs with skin issues, a diet closer to their natural nutritional needs may help reduce inflammation and regulate the skin barrier to stop itching.
RawMix dog food is a natural alternative that uses freeze drying to preserve your pet’s food. This means they benefit from high-quality raw meats, fruits and vegetables without the risk of upsetting their stomach.
If you are concerned about whether freeze dried food is good for dogs, the freeze drying technique preserves vital nutrients so your pup gets maximum nutrition for a beautiful coat and itch-free skin.
Consult your vet for a customized feeding plan if you are unsure how much to feed your dog, especially when switching to a new food or feeding plan like a raw diet.
Can Bone Broth Alleviate Itchy Skin?
Bone broth offers a range of health benefits for dogs. It is an excellent supplement for your dog’s diet to support skin health. It contains high levels of collagen and fatty acids for skin health and gives your dog’s meals a tasty boost. Simply pour over the top of your dog’s dry food for additional hydration and nutrients.
When it comes to alleviating itchy skin, bone broth can play a supportive role in several ways:
Rich in essential fatty acids: Bone broth contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining skin hydration and integrity. These fatty acids reinforce the skin barrier, reducing the likelihood of irritants causing itchiness and inflammation.
Gelatin and collagen boost: Gelatin contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which are vital for skin health. Collagen aids in skin elasticity and regeneration, potentially reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing.
Rich in minerals: Bone broth provides essential minerals like zinc, calcium and magnesium. Specifically, zinc directly affects skin health, aiding in cell replication and protein synthesis necessary for skin repair and regeneration.
Anti-inflammatory properties: The nutrients in bone broth, especially the amino acids, can help minimize inflammation in the body. Since inflammation is a key component of many skin irritations, reducing inflammation can alleviate itchiness and redness.
Tailored Nutrition for a Happier, Itch-Free Pup
While itchy skin can be a concern, the right diet supports your pup’s skin health. Prioritize high-quality ingredients, consider additions like bone broth, and ensure you feed the correct portions. With these steps, you’ll be on the path to a happier, itch-free canine companion.
Browse the full collection of high-quality dog foods at Open Farm. All our recipes are crafted from sustainably sourced, human-grade ingredients with no fillers or artificial preservatives to promote better overall health for your pet.
*This article is meant only as an example meal with fully balanced nutrition, please reach out to our customer experience team if you have any questions about your pet’s own unique circumstances! To ensure these products are a good fit for your pup, we also recommend consulting your pup’s vet about any new supplement or diet changes, especially if there is a medical concern. They should be able to help as you and your vet know your pup’s medical history best! *
