Brushing

Brushing your dog’s coat removes dirt, distributes his natural oils, and helps prevent skin irritations—plus, it’s good bonding time. How and when depends on his coat type.

• Short and smooth: once a week with a rubber brush.
• Short and thick: once a week with a bristle brush.
• Long and smooth: daily with a bristle brush.
• Long and thick: daily with a slicker brush.

If your dog’s hair grows continuously but does not shed, consider a monthly trip to the groomer.

Shedding

If you have a dog that’s prone to shedding (we see you, retrievers!), groom him regularly and use a brush that’s right for his coat. Some dogs only shed during transitional seasons like fall and spring, while others shed year-round. Either way, bathing him with an anti-shedding shampoo can help keep his coat clean and reduce the seemingly endless amount of fur that collects on the floor, furniture, and your clothes.

Nutrition

Your furry friend’s diet significantly impacts the condition of his skin, the body’s largest organ. “It all starts with diet,” say Manny the Frenchie’s parents, Amber Chavez and Jon Huang. “Eating a healthy diet will do wonders for your dog’s coat and skin.” Ask your veterinarian for a nutritional recommendation for a high-quality food that meets the needs of your pooch’s age and breed. Low-fat or homemade diets may lack the right quantities of nutrients and essential fatty acids to keep his skin healthy.

Wellness Visits

In addition to preventive care measures like bringing your dog to the veterinary clinic for his annual or semi-annual wellness checkup, consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in his fur or skin. These changes might indicate a more serious problem like stress, thyroid disease, a bacterial infection, allergy, or a diet lacking in the proper nutrients. The CareCredit credit card offers a convenient and flexible way to pay for all of your dog's wellness needs, including dermatology, and is accepted by veterinary clinics nationwide.