Although it looks the same, dog dandruff and human dandruff are different. The little white flakes you see are usually dead skin cells.
Dandruff is technically called seborrhoea sicca which refers to the excessive shedding of dead skin cells. It comes in a form of white flakes in dogs that suffer from dry skin. This condition is very itchy and is definitely most noticeable on dark-coloured dogs. It is hard to eradicate canine dandruff without knowing the underlying causes.
What causes dogs to have dandruff?
Similar to humans, there are various potential causes of dog dandruff.
- Genetic disease
Yes, seborrhoea can be inherited from the canine’s parents. The following breeds are more likely to genetically acquire this condition: - Allergies
- Cheyletiella mites
- Inadequate grooming
- Parasites
- Infection
- Poor diet
- Musculoskeletal disease
How to get rid of dog dandruff?
Here are six natural home remedies you could use to tackle dandruff in dogs.
Fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek seed is one of the very effective natural treatments to treat dog dandruff. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help remove fungi in the dog’s coat.
How do you get rid of dog dandruff using fenugreek seeds?
- Soak 2–3 cups of fenugreek seeds overnight. It should become soft in the morning.
- Make a paste with the soft seeds. Drain the water and then mash it all.
- Apply the paste to the affected area on your dog and leave it for an hour.
- Wash your pet with cool water.
Lime
Lime contains vitamin C which can be an effective home remedy for dandruff as well as making your dog’s coat shiny and glossy.
How do you treat dog dandruff using lime?
- Apply dog dandruff shampoo during bath time.
- Mix lime juice with water.
- Use the mixture in rinsing off the shampoo.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains detoxifying, antibacterial, and antifungal properties to help to improve the skin condition. It also helps with itchiness and allergies when used after shampooing.
How do you treat dog dandruff using apple cider vinegar?
- Prepare half a cup of apple cider vinegar and mix with half a cup of water (1:1 ratio).
- Rub the solution onto your dog’s skin and fur. You may use cotton balls or soft cotton to apply it.
- Allow it to dry.
- The process should be done twice a day until the desired result is achieved.
Olive oil
Olive oil can help with dry skin discomfort, itchiness and dandruff. It will give your dog a well-moisturised skin.
How do you treat dog dandruff using olive oil?
- You may add olive oil to your dog’s food.
- It is best eaten raw as it will break down under high heat.
- Give your dog half a tablespoon twice a day.
Use it externally – Apply it directly to the affected area.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil helps moisturise and keep dandruff off your dog’s skin. It also gives lustre to the fur wall and benefits the overall canine’s skin health which includes eliminating unhealthy microorganisms.
Moreover, its products are widely sold. You can find specialised dog shampoos that contain coconut oil for dog dandruff treatment.
Can you rub coconut oil on your dog? How do you get rid of dog dandruff using coconut oil?
- Prepare a bowl of mild water. Add about ten drops of coconut oil.
- Apply the mixture on your dog’s coat. Leave it for at least five minutes.
- Rinse it off using clean warm water.
- Apply shampoo on your dog, then rinse.
- Keep on doing this process once a week until your dog’s skin condition gets better.
Further, it can also be applied as a topical treatment. You may add it to your canine’s food, bathwater, or mix it with regular dog shampoo.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is one of the fastest, cheapest, and easiest home remedies for canine dandruff. This natural treatment nourishes, soothes, and moisturises your canine’s skin.
How do you treat dog dandruff using oatmeal?
Oatmeal bath.
- Prepare a cup of ground oatmeal.
- Add the cup of oatmeal into a tub filled with warm water.
- Mix the water well for equal distribution.
- Put your pooch inside the tub and let the mixture soak his fur.
- Wait for about fifteen minutes with your supervision. You may massage his coat to help to spread the oatmeal solution evenly.
- Repeat the process until you reach the desired result.
Tips on taking care of the skin and coat of a dog with dandruff
- Make brushing and grooming a regular habit for your pooch.
- Consult your veterinarian for approved supplements or vitamins that can be added to your dog’s diet. It should primarily benefit your canine’s skin and coat.
- Bathing plays a vital role in naturally removing moulted hair and dandruff from the coat. It should be done on a regular basis but should not be done too frequently as it could strip off the natural oils of the coat.
- Consider using a humidifier when the environment is too dry. It will not only get rid of your canine’s dandruff but will also improve the suppleness and condition of his coat.
Do you find this article helpful? Click here for more grooming tips.
