What to Do If Your Dog Has Dandruff?

Dandruff, also known as pet dander, refers to thin, dry flakes shedding from a dog’s skin. It is often a symptom of an underlying skin condition.

Cause Investigation

1. Over-bathing or Irritating ShampooFrequent baths strip the skin of its natural protective oils, while harsh shampoos can cause irritation, both leading to dandruff.
2. Skin DiseasesSuch as fungal infections (e.g., ringworm) and other dermatological issues.
3. MalnutritionA diet lacking essential nutrients can affect skin health and trigger flaking.

Solutions

1. Switch to a dog-specific shampoo and reduce the bathing frequency.
2. If dandruff is suspected to stem from a skin disease, take your dog to a vet for a professional skin check to identify the root cause and follow the prescribed treatment plan.
3. Improve your dog’s diet with balanced nutrition, and add skin-supporting supplements such as lecithin, deep-sea fish oil, and vitamin B complex.

Prevention Measures

1. Avoid excessive bathing: Bathe your dog once a week in summer, and once every 1–2 weeks in winter.
2. Always use dog-formulated shampoo instead of human products during baths.

Special Reminder

Treating skin conditions takes time, and recurrence is common. Be patient and stick to the full course of treatment as advised by your veterinarian.