Dandruff is a condition that plagues many human beings throughout the globe. Not only can it be uncomfortable, it can be embarrassing as well. Did you know that dogs can get dandruff too? Not only can dogs get it, it is much worse! Because hair covers their entire body, they usually get dandruff everywhere, not just on their scalp! It also can make dogs irritated with all the scratching they do because of their itchy skin. A simple growth of dandruff can turn ugly due to constant scratching- which may cause skin to break.



So, how does dandruff occur? Dandruff is often the result of proliferating skin cells; that is, it occurs when the skin cells grow, die, then flake off. Dandruff can also occur sometimes when their skin becomes too dry, due to cold weather, a dehydrating shampoo, or too frequent bathing. It is important to try to remedy this issue as soon as it begins. You don't want your dog becoming overly irritated and scratching themselves all the time. If it gets bad, excessive scratching can lead to redness and soreness of the skin.

So how can doggie dandruff be taken care of? Too frequent bathing can cause dandruff; however, not washing your pet often enough can also cause dandruff. If you feel this may be the case, give your dog a bath and be sure to scrub them gently (yet firmly) to get rid of all the excess and dead skin on your pup's body. A general rule of thumb is to bathe your pet once a month in the winter and twice in the summer.

Using a gentle shampoo (such as baby shampoo) or a special dog moisturizing shampoo will help hydrate and pamper your pet's skin. Thoroughly rinse your pet with warm (not hot!) water to ensure all of the shampoo is washed out (wait until the water runs clear).

If using a moisturizing pet shampoo or a baby shampoo doesn't work, go ahead and purchase a doggie dandruff shampoo for more power. Make sure it contains sulfur or salicylic acid, because these are the driving agents behind getting rid of itchy dandruff, as well as soothing the skin. Though this is difficult with a dog in a bathtub, make sure your pet sits in the lather for at least 5 minutes before rinsing it off. This will allow the product to thoroughly seep in and become active. As a side note, do not attempt to use human dandruff shampoos. These are made out of strong formulas that can be very harmful to pets, though they are perfectly safe for human use.

Doggie dandruff is uncomfortable, itchy, and unsightly. Help your dog out by bathing them properly and by washing them with doggie dandruff shampoo when it is necessary. Remember to brush them daily as well; this will help evenly distribute the skins natural oils thus helping with hydration.

Keep your dog healthy by grooming them properly and by bathing them with the correct products. Then you will have a healthy, happy, and itch-free pup!