Could your dog benefit from extra Fatty Acids?

The answer is almost certainly yes! Have you ever noticed how some dogs have shiny, glossy coats while others are dull and rough? A variation in breeds aside, there is one major factor that affects the quality of their skin and coat. Sure, bathing and grooming go a long way, but the main ingredient for a good coat is in their diet.

Remember: Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pets diet.

Essential Fatty Acids:

Essential fatty acids are crucial to maintaining healthy skin and coat. There are two types of essential fatty acids that are commonly used in quality foods and coat supplements. It is important to understand that these essential fatty acids cannot be manufactured by the body so it is vital that your dog gets these in their diet.

The first is Omega-3 fatty acid, which can be found in fish oil, as well as flaxseed. The second is Omega-6, found also in flaxseed, as well as evening primrose and black currant, just to name a few. These are ingredients that you should be looking for in their regular food, as they need to consume them daily. If you are unsure whether or not your dogs’ food contains these essential fatty acids you can ask your veterinarian. If the food does not state it contains Omega-3 or Omega-6 essential fatty acids but does contains linoleic acid, (found in safflower and fish oil) or flaxseed you can be sure that is contains the necessary essential fatty acids as these are both rich sources.

Not Just For Looks!

Essential fatty acids are also vital to other body functions, including: weight management, energy production and brain function. Many skin problems can be avoided, and existing skin conditions heal faster by insuring your dog has these essential fatty acids in their diet.

Vitamin E:

This vitamin has been a common ingredient in topical products for animals’ coats for many years, but ingestion of this important vitamin in your dogs diet helps because of its great antioxidant properties. Antioxidants work by slowing the destruction of cells from aging, therefore also benefiting your dogs’ skin and coat.

Biotin:

Also known as Vitamin-H, Biotin is another crucial ingredient that improves the skin and coat by improving your dogs’ metabolism. It works by helping the body use protein and other B-vitamins, and by helping to synthesize and oxidize essential fatty acids. Many dogs who have a Biotin  deficiency will have dry and scaly skin, and in some cases if severe enough, nausea and vomiting with appetite loss.

Unfortunately, many animals do not get these nutrients. Many supermarket brand foods do not contain the necessary amounts of essential fatty acids. These foods can still be fed, but it is important to add the essential fatty acids in the form of a supplement at mealtime.

These essential fatty acids really do make a difference!

You will notice a difference in your dogs coat in as little as 7-10 days, for short hair breeds this difference can be seen in as little as 2-3 days. Their coat will be softer, shine more, and shed more evenly - rather than in big clumps. Their skin will also be softer, and less susceptible to flaking or dryness.