Treating Dry Skin in Dogs

Dry Skin on Dogs

Dry skin on dogs is not unusual, especially in the winter when the air has less moisture. There are moisture shampoos and other tonics that can sooth dry skin flareups and prevent recurrences. They rehydrate the dry skin and stop the itching that the dog starts when the dry skin occurs. By stopping the scratching, you can prevent the dog from making a bad situation worse by rubbing the skin raw and causing possible infection.

Making a Dry Skin Solution

A person can make her own dry skin remedy at home to help relieve the discomfort of her dog. If the dog has spots of dry skin, a one-to-one ratio of colloidal oatmeal and warm water will do the trick. Mix the oatmeal and water together and apply the paste to the irritated area. Cover with foil if possible and keep the dog still for about 10 minutes. When time is up, clean off with a damp towel. If the area is too large for it to be wrapped in foil and left alone, then you will need to stay with the dog to keep him from licking it off. The oatmeal is a natural way to return moisture to the skin. It will give the dog some instant relief, and over time it will contribute to the healing.

What Not to Do

The best thing you can do for your dog is not bath him too often. Bathing strips the skin of natural oils that keep the skin from drying out. Instead of a bath, try brushing the hair more often to keep blood moving to the skin well and spread the natural oils to dryer spots.

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[starlet67]

on 3/13/2009 Great tip about the oatmeal for soothing dry skin!