Feeding Your Wrinkly Doggo
Keeping your dog's skin healthy and free from allergens can be a challenge, especially for breed with wrinkles such as English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs. While these breeds are known for their unique features, they’re also prone to allergies due to the folds of skin on their face and body that trap dirt and moisture. Common signs of an allergic reaction include itchy or dry patches, redness, and excessive shedding. Fortunately, there are several diet changes you can make to help keep your pup’s coat healthy as well as avoiding common allergens.
The Best Diet Choices for Keeping Your Dog's Skin Healthy
Good nutrition is essential for keeping your dog's skin healthy and allergy-free. Start by feeding your pup a balanced diet of quality proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Proteins are essential for tissue repair and growth and can be found in meats such as chicken, beef, fish and eggs. Fats provide energy and help keep skin supple while adding flavor to food. Look for sources like flaxseed oil or fatty fish like salmon or sardines which also contain Omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation. Whole grains are important for providing fiber which helps digestion as well as B vitamins which play an important role in skin health.
In addition to a balanced meal, you can supplement your pup’s diet with natural ingredients that help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier including coconut oil, olive oil and fatty acids. You can also look for hypoallergenic foods formulated to provide nutrition while avoiding common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy.
Tips for Avoiding Common Allergens
In addition to providing a healthy diet for your pup, there are several steps you can take to avoid common allergens:
- Clean your pet’s skin folds regularly with a gentle cleanser (or Squishface Wrinkle Wipes) that won’t irritate the skin.
- Avoid feeding table scraps or treats containing wheat, corn or soy which are common food allergens.
- Keep your pup away from areas where pollen may be present such as fields and parks during high pollen season.
- Regularly inspect your pup’s coat for signs of dryness, redness or itchy patches.
- Bathe your pup regularly with a hypoallergenic shampoo and use a conditioner to keep their coat soft and free of allergens.
After bathing, dry your wrinkly doggo thoroughly with a towel. Be sure to get in between the skin folds and wrinkles so that no water is left behind. Moisture left inside the folds and wrinkles can cause irritation and even yeast infections. Once your dog is thoroughly dried, follow with Squishface Wrinkle Paste.
Wrinkle Paste forms a water-repellent barrier on the skin surface which keeps moisture, yeast, fungus and other bacteria away. Use Wrinkle Paste as a protective barrier on your dog’s nose rope, wrinkles and skin folds, toes and tail pockets. apply a moisturizing lotion or spray to help keep the skin hydrated and comfortable.
Additionally, talk to your vet about adding omega-3 fatty acids like fish oil into their diet as these can reduce inflammation in the skin caused by allergies.
The Bottom Line
By providing your pup with the right nutrition as well as avoiding common allergens, you can keep your dog’s skin healthy and free from allergies. If you have any concerns about what may be causing an allergic reaction in your pet, consult with your vet so they can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. With the right care, you can ensure that your pup's coat stays beautiful and healthy all year round.
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