6 Tips For Treating Your Dog's Dry Skin In Winter

Has the dry winter air been damaging your dog’s skin and coat?  In this article we will explore the answers to these questions and more. Can dogs get dry skin? How do I help my dog's dry skin?  Our harsh Canadian winters can do a number on your dog’s skin and coat - they can experience itchy skin, hot spots,  and dandruff. 

Winter weather can bring drier air, and the effects of these cold spells can cause multiple skin and coat issues in your pets. Protect your dog’s dry skin this winter with some simple skin and coat tips. 

You may be asking yourself what you can do for your dog's dry skin in the winter.

How do I treat my dog's itchy, flaky dry skin in the winter? Luckily, we have many tips to help you treat your fur babies.

Let’s look at some of the easiest ways to rejuvenate your dog’s skin and ditch the winter itch.

Dog Dry Skin in Winter 

Dog skin is very similar to human skin. Because of this, it can be difficult to keep moisturized in winter. This is largely due to the fact that winter brings a more arid, cold, and dry wind – which can lead to chapping on the skin underneath the immune system of your furry friend’s coat daily.

This can be made worse if they already struggle with food diet limitations or allergens or if they spend an excessive amount of time outside.

Dry skin in the winter can affect dogs of all sizes. While dry skin isn’t inherently life-threatening, it can make your pup very uncomfortable - and lead to itching, inflammation, and even infection.

Symptoms of Dog's Dry Skin

Dry skin is not the same for all dogs, but we’re sure if they could speak, they would all agree – it can come with some uncomfortable symptoms! There are many things that dog dry skin can cause:

• • Itching
  • Dandruff
  • Flaking
  • Pimples
  • Scaling
  • Hair loss
  • Inflammation
  • Odour
  • Increased Oiliness
  • Scabs
  • Cracking

Other Causes of Dry Skin in Dogs

While the drastic change in the weather and frigid temperature drops are usually the culprits of your dog’s dry skin when we reach the winter months, there are other causes that can make your dog’s skin dry, itchy, or flaky.

If you’re noticing your dog is suffering from pretty severe symptoms, there might be an underlying cause.

There are many conditions or issues other than the weather that can mean your dog has dry, itchy skin in the winter. These include dog food allergies, parasites, and serious medical disorders such as Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism.

Allergies

Flea saliva can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Dogs' can get allergies just like humans. Dog allergies can include seasonal allergies and food allergies, as well as environmental allergies. These allergies can often lead to dry skin and other symptoms.

Things like flea salvia, pollen, dust mites, omega 3, and animal dander can cause these allergies. These allergies can lead to a skin condition called Atopic Dermatitis. This can cause dry skin, itching, and redness, as well as secondary skin infections.

Flea bite allergies are one of the most common skin conditions in American dogs. Keep your dog and house free from fleas, and talk to your veterinarian to discuss possible treatment options.

Parasites

Parasites can also cause dry skin. Dry, flaky skin could be an indication of parasites, which can cause mange. This includes the Demodex mite and canine lice.

A trip to the vet is necessary to diagnose parasites that cause a dog's dry skin. If your family veterinarian feels that your pet needs veterinary dermatology medical assistance, he may refer you.

Learn more about the dangers of bug bites and how to treat them in Recognizing and Treating Bug Bites on Dogs. 

Infections

Dogs can also develop skin problems from fungal and bacterial infections. Canine skin infections are usually diagnosed by veterinarians who take skin samples for cytology.

Dry winter skin is a sign that the infection may be a bigger problem. Some infections, like the fungal infection Ringworm, are also transmissible to people.

Systemic Disorders

Sometimes dry skin can be a sign that there is a more serious problem. Two main metabolic conditions that can cause dogs dry skin are  Cushing’s disease and hypothyroidism. Dry skin can be accompanied by hair loss, dry and brittle skin, and other symptoms.

Dry skin can also be caused by autoimmune diseases or cancer. These are serious conditions. Dry skin is not something to be taken lightly.

Breed-specific Skin Conditions

Some breeds are more susceptible to conditions than others, particularly when it comes to dry skin. The Xoloitzcuintli, Chinese Crested, and other hairless breeds are more vulnerable to conditions.

Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes can also be affected by zinc-responsive dermatosis. A veterinarian can diagnose your dog's dry skin.

6 Solutions for Your Dog’s Dry Skin in Winter

While cold, dry air may not be the only contributor to your pet’s skin issues, it is still a factor. Talk to your vet to rule out parasites, allergies, ear mites, and other health conditions that could be the underlying cause of their skin and coat woes.

What's the best thing for a dog's dry skin in winter? Here are the 6 simplest solutions for conditioning your dog’s skin and protecting against the effects of seasonal changes:

1. Humidity

Dry winter air can be one of the causes of dry skin. You can’t control the weather outside, but you can affect the environment in your home. Try using a small humidifier in your house to increase the moisture level of your home.

Another factor that can affect the humidity in your house is how high you're blasting the heat. It may feel colder than the North Pole outside, but remember that your dog wears a fur coat 24/7. Turn the heat down a few degrees and throw on some slippers and a sweater instead of using the heat. 

These few degrees can make a big difference in the humidity level in the air.

2. Hydration

Adding moisture to your dog's skin environment will help, but keeping your pet hydrated will be the most critical factor in their skin and coat health. Hydration is especially important if you are feeding a strictly dry diet, like kibble. While these diets are complete and balanced, they do not supply enough moisture.

Combat the dehydrating effects of dry food by encouraging more moisture intake for skin health. Most dogs do not drink enough naturally, so get creative.

Moisture can be added to their food, their treats, and even their toys. Add fresh and wet foods to their meals or offer your dog some delicious bone broth as a treat as training.

You can even make your own bone broth and customize it to your dog's skin health needs and taste preferences. Check out our homemade recipe.

3. Healthy Fats and Oils

Adding healthy fats and oils into your pet’s diet can help to soothe dry skin and reduce inflammation that can cause itchiness.

They help to support the cell cycles in your dog’s skin, keeping the cells alive for longer and allowing them to shed less frequently. This will not only reduce itchiness but also limit general shedding and dandruff.

Animal sources, like wild-caught salmon oil, are the most effective, as they contain a wider variety of omega fatty acids and a better balance of omega 3 to omega 6 fatty acids or fatty acid supplements. Plant-based essential fatty acids, such as flaxseed oil and coconut oil, are a great option too.

Supplementing with healthy fats and oils is a yummy addition to coconut oil in any meal. They are easy to incorporate and welcomed by any dog. Start by adding a tiny amount of winter itch to introduce the flavour, and slowly work your way up to a full dose.

4. Evaluate the Diet

The best treatment for dry skin in dogs might be getting to the root of the cause.  And sometimes, skin issues can be caused or exacerbated by changes or allergens in your dog’s diet.  Yes, dog food can actually cause dry skin in dogs. 

Before trying this measure, always be sure to consult with a vet to create an elimination-style diet for your dog and check for any additional factors when determining components that might be impacting your dog's skin. 

Check out What Should I Feed My Dog for tips on navigating the confusing world of dog food. 

5. Grooming

Regular grooming should always be a part of your pet’s care routine, but it’s especially important during seasonal changes. Daily brushing can help to reduce skin and coat shedding, as well as to remove dander and bacteria that collect on the surface of the skin.

Stick to a simple slicker brush or a comb to avoid over-grooming your pet. Deshedding brushes should be used no more than 1-2 times per week, as they can remove healthy fur and irritate the skin when used too frequently.

Occasional baths can help too, but bathing should be infrequent. Aim for once every 4-6 weeks. If you need to bathe your dog more frequently, then you should consider using just warm water with a small amount of baking soda. This can help deodorize without stripping any of the healthy oils from their skin.

Hop over to our Ultimate Dog Grooming Guide to find out how to safely groom your pooch at home. 

6. Topical Moisturizers

Sometimes soothing your dog's dry skin is best done by topical treatments.  Topical moisturizers like Vet's Best Conditioning Spray can reduce the winter itch and prevent your dog from licking or scratching the affected areas raw. 

If you’re looking for instant relief and want to try a DIY dry skin treatment at home, there are natural remedies you can use. Coconut oil, pure Aloe Vera, and even apple cider vinegar dilutions can help to eliminate the winter itch caused by dry skin.

All are safe to consume in small amounts, so they are safe to apply to areas that your dog can lick.

Don’t overdo it with topical treatments. They can help soothe and condition, but they are rarely a total solution. They are best used to reduce irritation quickly in winter weather, but alone, they will not get rid of the underlying cause.

Bonus Tip: Winter Protection

Winter gear isn’t just about fashion. Finding the right coats, dog boots, or paw waxes can protect your pet from frigid outdoor temperatures, body temperature drops, as well as ice melters, salts, rain, and ice which can all irritate the skin and lead to dryness. 

Consider seasonal changes and adjust your routines and activities to prevent the effects of cold weather on your pet.

Winter means shorter days, so walks may be better scheduled during the warmest, sunniest parts of the day, as opposed to the early morning when the temps are more savage.

Make an Informed Decision for Your Dry Skin

When determining what to do for your dog's dry skin in winter, the best course of action is always to consult with your vet first. They can properly evaluate and assess the cause of your dog’s irritation and seek an appropriate resolution.

They will be your best help in deciding the best treatment for your dog's dry, itchy skin. The best treatment for your dog's dry skin is staying ahead with moisturizing shampoo and trying your best to prepare your dog for harsh conditions outside using foods that contain salmon oil and topical treatments. Without a doubt, there are many remedies for your dog's dry skin in winter.

Treating Your Dog’s Dry Skin

You may have noticed that many of the tips we mentioned work the same for you as they do for your dog (except for the bathing one - that should be much more than the occasional occurrence!!).

If you notice signs of dry skin and itchy skin on your dog, then chances are your pet is suffering and requires prompt treatment to overcome the condition.

Although the signs may not be visible, all our tips can be used preventatively. You may not see your dog’s skin becoming dry, but that doesn’t mean that winter isn’t taking its toll. Anticipate your dog’s skin problems this winter by building a consistent and healthy skincare routine all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How can I treat my dog's dry skin during winter? 

Moisturize your dog's skin with a pet-safe moisturizer. Also, feeding a diet high in essential fatty acids can help alleviate dry skin. 

Is bathing my dog less frequently beneficial for dry skin in winter?

Yes, reducing bathing frequency during winter can help retain natural oils on your dog's skin, preventing further dryness.

Can I use human moisturizers on my dog's dry skin?

It's best to use products formulated specifically for dogs because human moisturizers may contain ingredients that could be harmful or irritating to your dog's skin.

Are there any dietary changes that can help combat dry skin in winter?

Foods made from natural food ingredients are best suited to support skin and coat health. Consider switching to a food that is rich in healthy animal protein and fresh ingredients like raw dog food. The additional moisture in raw diets can also help to keep your dog and their skin hydrated.

Should I adjust my home's humidity to help with my dog's dry skin?

Yes, using a humidifier in your home can help maintain proper moisture levels in the air, which can benefit your dog's skin during the dry winter months.

When should I seek veterinary advice for my dog's dry skin?

If your dog's dry skin persists, worsens, or is accompanied by excessive itching, redness, or sores, consult with your veterinarian immediately.