Bringing a puppy into your family is an exciting and joyful time, but it can also come with new concerns—like noticing dry, flaky skin on your puppy. You might spot dandruff-like flakes, especially on darker-coated pups or where they rest on dark bedding. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatments for dry puppy skin can help you keep your new furry friend comfortable and healthy.
Signs of Dry Skin in Puppies
New pet parents are often very observant, which is great for catching skin issues early. The most obvious sign of dry skin in puppies is dandruff-like flakes in their fur. It’s helpful to get your puppy used to gentle handling early on, so you can check their skin regularly by parting their fur and running your hands over their body
Dandruff may be more visible on short-haired or dark-coloured puppies. For medium or long-haired pups or those with light coats, parting the fur and closely inspecting the skin is necessary.
You may notice flakes building up more around areas that are hard for puppies to groom, like the neck or base of the tail. Additionally, your puppy might scratch more than usual due to the irritation caused by dry skin.
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Causes of Dry Skin in Puppies and What to Do
There are two main reasons your puppy might have dry skin:
1. Normal Puppy Skin Development
Puppies naturally have drier skin than adult dogs because their sebaceous glands—which produce natural oils to keep skin and coat hydrated—are still developing. If your puppy isn’t constantly scratching and seems otherwise healthy, regular gentle grooming a few times a week can help remove dead skin and stimulate oil production.
2. Parasites
Puppies can acquire parasites like mites, lice, or fleas from their mother or environment. Some parasites cause intense itching, leading to flaky skin from scratching. One parasite, Cheyletiella, is nicknamed “walking dandruff” because it looks like dandruff but moves on the skin. If anyone in your household experiences itching alongside your puppy, consult a vet and doctor as this parasite can spread between humans and dogs.
When to Seek Veterinary Help
Regular vet visits for vaccinations and check-ups are an ideal time to have your puppy’s skin examined. However, if your puppy is scratching excessively, losing hair, or has bald patches or scabs, schedule a vet visit promptly.
Also, discuss your puppy’s diet with your vet. Proper nutrition is crucial for skin and coat health, especially during growth. Feeding a high-quality, balanced puppy food supports healthy skin development and overall wellbeing.
Reviewed by Dr. Hein Meyer, DVM, PhD, Dipl-ECVIM-CA
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