You probably know a few humans who deal with dandruff, but did you know dogs get dandruff, too? Maybe you have noticed your pup scratching more often or have seen white flakes on his bedding. Besides irritated skin, these signs can also point to a skin condition called walking dandruff.
How do you know when dog dandruff warrants a veterinarian visit? Since the signs of canine dandruff can be very similar to other skin issues, it's important to know what to watch out for and the possible treatment options to consider.
The Facts About Dog Dandruff
Dandruff is the presence of dead skin cells on your dog's coat. Depending on the color of your dog's fur it may be difficult to actually see the flakes, but they are often visible when they hop off the couch or put their head in your lap. There are many ways a dog's skin can get irritated. From excessive licking to a nutritional issue, the root cause of dandruff can sometimes be difficult to identify.
The first thing to ask yourself is whether you notice the dandruff all over your pup's coat or just in a particular area. Irritated skin in one concentrated spot could be due to a reaction to something your dog came in contact with, or it could be a more serious problem like an infection or parasite. Once you notice dandruff, consider visiting your vet for help. If you notice additional signs such as itching, reddened skin irritation, or scaly patches of hair loss then the best advice would be to consult with your vet immediately for further help. Since skin issues can have genetic, environmental, nutritional or parasitic causes, sometimes several different treatment options have to be explored.
Tasty Tips
Preventing & Treating Dandruff
There are a few things you can do to prevent dog dandruff and other skin problems. Trupanion recommends that pet parents start by grooming their dogs regularly. Removing matted hair leaves less of a breeding ground for parasites, and regular brushing encourages you to spend a few minutes checking your dog's skin and coat to catch any problems early on. You should also look for seeds, burrs and sharp plants or objects they may have picked up on a walk.
Your vet might suggest bathing your dog more frequently to prevent dandruff. Wag! advises using a specially formulated dog dandruff shampoo and making sure you dry your pet thoroughly after their bath.
If simple preventative measures like grooming and bathing are not ridding your dog of dandruff, discuss special food options or allergy tests with your vet. They can help you find a dog food with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E that promote a healthy coat and immune system.
The Difference Between Dandruff and Walking Dandruff
A more serious possible cause for your dog's flaky, itchy skin is a condition called walking dandruff. MedVet clarifies that walking dandruff is a parasitic infection called cheyletiellosis that is caused by mites. If you notice your dog scratching, licking or biting their skin, check the area for hair loss, redness and scaly patches.
Walking dandruff is extremely contagious. The mites can easily spread to other pets in your household like cats and rabbits, and in about 20 percent of cases they can also affect humans, MedVet notes.
It is best to get your dog to the vet as soon as you notice they have dandruff coupled with redness or scaling. Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for walking dandruff. Your vet will likely administer a topical treatment called a dip that coats your dog's fur in a mite-killing medicine. Dips and other treatments may need to be repeated once or twice every week for up to six weeks. You should also bring any other household pets to the vet for mite treatment, and you may need to treat your home with a pesticide designed for killing mites and fleas.
No one likes an itchy and uncomfortable pup. Once their dandruff or other skin issues are addressed, hopefully you and your dog can enjoy more time doing the things you love, itch-free.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetables Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Can Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Healthy Cuisine Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
Chicken & Vegetables recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Related articles
Healthy Dog Treats You Can Make at Home
If you're looking for an easy way to create healthy, homemade dog treats for your dog, try one of these 2 recipes from Hill's Pet Nutrition.
Can Dogs Have Cinnamon?
Learn whether cinnamon is safe for your dog, what to do if they got into cinnamon bark, oil, sticks or spice, and what quantity of it is a health concern.
Steps to Successfully House Train Your Puppy
Learn about the rules for house training your puppy, preventing your puppy from starting any bad habits, how to keep a schedule and rewarding good behavior.
My Dog Ate Soap: What Should I Do?
Discover what to do if your dog ate soap, including the warning signs to look out for and when to bring them to the veterinarian.
Does My Dog Need A Winter Coat?
You pile on layers when it's cold out, but do dogs need winter coats, too? Learn how breed size & your dog's age can help you decide if it's a good idea.
Is My Dog Too Skinny?
Learn how to tell if your dog might be too skinny, common reasons why they could be underweight, and tips for getting them to a healthy weight.
Grain-Free Dog Food: Is it Right For Your Dog?
Learn what grain free dog food really means for your dog. Discover whether or not Hill's line of grain free products is right for your dog.
How to Train Your Dog to Use a Doggie Door
Learn training tips for getting your dog to use a doggie door, including how they might react at first and how you can encourage them to embrace it.
What is My Dog Thinking About?
Wonder what your dog is thinking about? Learn about the way your dog's brain processes information compared to a human & what your intonation means to him.
My Dog Was Sprayed By A Skunk: What Should I Do?
Learn what to do if your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, including determining where they were sprayed and tips for getting the skunk smell off of your dog.
Enlarged Prostate in Dogs: Managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Signs of an enlarged prostate in dogs (benign prostatic hyperplasia) aren't easy to spot, so learn more about symptoms, treatments & prevention options.
Puppy Supplies You Really Need
Gather the following puppy supplies to prepare your family for all the fun (and commitment) that comes with being a dog parent.
My Dog Is Not Affectionate Toward Me — Help!
Much like humans, not all dogs show affection the same way. While some dogs may not be as outgoing as others, learn how you can still form a loving bond.
Why Is My Dog Afraid of the Dark?
Discover common reasons why your dog seems afraid of the dark, including things like separation anxiety & traumas, and how to help reduce their fears.
Is My Dog Sick? How Can I Tell?
If your dog is behaving strangely and you suspect something is wrong, learn some common behaviors they may be exhibiting to show they're not feeling well.
"Why Is My Dog Constipated?" and Other Gastrointestinal Questions
Wondering why your dog is constipated? Or why he has diarrhea? Learn more about these common gastro issues in dogs, and tips for managing them at home.
The Science Behind a Dog IQ Test
Curious to know how smart your dog is? Learn about the different types of dog intelligence and see how trainable he is with an IQ test.
How to Use Dog Diapers
Learn all about the different types of dog diapers, how to use them and why it might be beneficial for pups that are getting older to wear one.
Why Is My Dog Rubbing Their Nose Raw?
If you notice your dog rubbing his nose raw on different surfaces, you probably want to know why. Learn common reasons for this behavior & prevention tips.
Does My Dog Like to be Petted?
Does your dog really like to be petted? Learn the best spots to pet a dog, especially for new puppy owners, as well as areas to avoid when petting.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.