How to Treat Doggy Dander

Treat doggy dander at home to keep your dog comfortable.

Dog dander can cause your four-legged friend to scratch their skin often. The dander appears as white flakes on the dog's coat, and it can cause the coat to lose its shine. While you can take the dog to the veterinarian for medication, you can naturally treat the dander at home first. Dandruff can be the result of a poor diet, skin allergies or a serious health problem. You need to treat the dandruff to keep your dog comfortable and happy.

Things You'll Need

• High quality dog food
• Flaxseed oil
• Moisturizing shampoo
• Natural rolled oats
• Dog brush

Instructions

1. Feed your dog with high quality dog food. Inexpensive foods can contain additives that may irritate your dog's skin. Quality foods will have essential nutrients and vitamins needed for healthy skin.

2. Add flaxseed oil to your dog's diet. Omega-3 fatty acids can help treat diet deficiencies that may cause the dander. Add 1 tablespoon of the oil over the dog's food after consulting your veterinarian.

3. Bathe your dog with a moisturizing shampoo that treats dandruff. You can also add 1 cup of natural rolled oats to the bath water to help lock in the oils in the skin that shampoos strip away.

4. Brush your dog weekly to help remove dead skin and loose hair. Brushing will also help to distribute the natural oil to keep the skin healthy.

5. Wash the bedding to prevent any skin irritation. Dirt, debris and fur can irritate the skin and cause the dandruff to form due to allergies.

Tips & Warnings

• Seek advice from your veterinarian if the dandruff does not decrease or the dog does not respond to treatments because it can be an indication of a more serious health condition.

References

• Dog Health Guide: Cure Dog Dry Skin
• The Pet Center.com: Itch and Scratch Bite and Lick!
• Organic Pet Digest: Dog Skin Conditions