Have you ever suffered from dandruff yourself?
Then you know that the white flakes stand out the most. Also in dogs, dry skin manifests itself in flakes in the coat. In a dark coat they are easy to find, but in a light coat they are a lot less noticeable. Therefore, also look in the basket or on your own clothing to find out if your dog leaves behind flakes. Another sign that your dog is suffering from dry skin is frequent scratching. This can lead to scabs on the skin or irregular bald spots.

Dandruff occurs when the sebum production of the skin is disrupted.
In most dogs that suffer from flaky skin, the skin produces too much sebum. The cause of such a deviation is often an allergy, metabolic disorder or a nutrient deficiency. Certain varieties also suffer more from flaking. These include West Highland White Terriers, Dachshunds and Labrador Retrievers. Finally, fleas, lice and mites in the coat can cause dandruff. To find out what causes the itching and dry skin in your four-legged friend, it is wise to pay a visit to the vet.

Which nutrients are needed for a healthy coat?
Dogs' skin – just like people's – needs the right nutrients to stay healthy. Fatty acids such as omega 3 and 6 are essential for the development of a healthy coat. In addition, proteins play a major role. At least 30 percent of the proteins that your dog ingests daily is used for the development of the coat. Finally, vitamin A is crucial in the growth of skin cells and the regulation of sebum production. Therefore, choose a feed type that contains all these elements.

Does your dog regularly get a refreshing bath? Then it is important to use special dog shampoos. Make sure that the shampoo does not contain any chemicals or perfume, as these will dry out the skin further. Regular brushing – or even better: a firm stroke – helps to regulate sebum production.