Get the Crufts look: A Beautiful Shiny Coat!
Shiny, healthy coats are the biggest, showstopping trend during Crufts (and every!) season. If your dog’s coat is a bit more ‘tramp’ than ‘lady’, then you’re probably wondering…how do you get a shiny coat on your dog?
A dog’s coat is a clear and simple indicator of their overall health. Unhealthy coats can be dull, smelly, oily and excessively shed, and skin may be dry, flaky and sore. Coats in this condition can suggest poor nutrition and health, which needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. Of course, there’s a lot more to a dog’s coat than how it looks: the coat functions as a protective barrier from the outside world and a temperature regulator, so optimal coat health is very important.
We’ve compiled a post of tips and advice to keep your dog’s coat in tip-top health and give it that best-in-show shine.
What is the best dog food for a healthy, shiny coat?
Diet and nutrition are always top of our priority list for health here at Nutriment. A dog’s coat is made up almost entirely of protein, so a diet rich in high-quality, easily digestible protein is essential for its upkeep. Protein is the star of all of Nutriment’s raw recipes, making them ideal for supporting overall coat and skin health. Additionally, Nutriment products never contain artificial additives or preservatives that can negatively affect coat and skin condition.
Alongside protein, fatty acids found in oily fish are also huge contributors to shiny, healthy coats, as well as supporting healthy joints and immune systems. Nutriment’s raw fish formulas are a great way to pack in some Omega 3 and 6 to boost coat health.
Groomed to perfection
Regularly brushing your dog’s coat can help to remove dirt and excess hair, and promote growth and shine by helping to distribute natural oils found in your dog’s skin. Grooming your dog is also a great way to strengthen your bond and can be hugely enjoyable for a lot of pups. By regularly brushing and grooming your dog, you’re also more likely notice anything unusual such as lumps, ticks, fleas, mats and cuts.
How often should you groom your dog?
Well, this completely depends on the type of coat your dog has. Short-haired dogs need a good brushing once or twice a week, medium coats tend to need a quick brush every other day, and long-coated dogs often benefit from daily brushing due to the matting risk. Be sure to choose the right brush for your dog’s coat, taking into consideration its texture as well as length, to ensure a calm and comfortable groom.
Rubber ducks optional
Many dogs love getting just plain dirty on their walks: swimming, muddy puddles and playing with other dogs can all leave their coats a little worse for wear. Although over-bathing can strip the skin of its essential oils, an occasional bath with gentle products is a great way to keep coats fresh, shiny and dirt-free.
Adding oatmeal to the bath or using oatmeal-based products can also help to relieve any itching or dry skin your dog may have. Bathing at home not an option? Find a reputable and recommended groomer in your area who can bathe your dog for you!
Or check out our natural shampoo options, here!
A little extra something for a shiny dog coat
- Eggs contain a variety of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, B12, D, iron, fatty acids, folate, which are all great for supporting coat and skin health. One to three raw, organic egg(s) (depending on dog size) added to a meal once a week is ideal.
- Coconut oil* – a little goes a long way when it comes to coconut oil, but the benefits are extensive for happy and healthy coats. You can apply it topically to the skin or add to your dog’s meal.
- Spirulina* is another great source of essential fatty acids which support healthy and balanced coats. Spirulina is also a natural antihistamine, and so can help reduce the impact of common allergies on the skin and coat.
- Apple Cider Vinegar, when diluted to a 50/50 concentration with water, can help to relieve itchy, dry and flaky skin which may be caused by yeast infections.
*You’ll find these superfood ingredients in all Nutriment core recipes!*
We’d love to see how your pets shine, and how Nutriment raw food supports your dog’s coats. Remember to tag us in your pup’s photos! @nutrimentraw
Please remember, you should consult your vet if you notice any sudden or drastic changes in your dog’s coat to rule out any underlying health conditions.
