A Dog’s Coat Is Their Armor: A Complete Understanding Of How Healthy Coat Protects Your Dog

A Dog’s Coat Is Their Armor: A Complete Understanding Of How Healthy Coat Protects Your Dog

Written by Christian Morgan, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine

A shiny coat is often a quick and visible sign of your pet’s overall health. In fact, we as veterinarians commonly assess a dog or cat’s well-being by examining their skin and coat.

Did you know? The skin is the largest organ in the body.

The skin is made up of three layers:

  • Dermis: The thickest and most active layer, rich in collagen, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands that produce sebum to keep skin and fur lubricated.
  • Epidermis: Contains keratin-producing cells that help prevent water loss.
  • Hypodermis: The innermost layer, primarily composed of fat.

Your pet’s coat is made up of thousands of hairs that are constantly renewed to handle daily wear.

The skin and coat play essential roles in your pet’s health:

  • Protection: They form a barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and injury.
  • Immunity: Healthy skin supports the immune system and helps prevent infections.
  • Temperature regulation: Fur insulates in cold weather and helps cool the body when warm.

Nutrition is key to maintaining skin and coat health. Diets rich in protein, omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals support a shiny, resilient coat.

Team Dog Essential and Elite Blend Salmon and Herring is an excellent choice for supporting your dog’s coat health, thanks to its rich blend of essential nutrients. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from premium salmon and herring, these formulas help nourish your dog’s skin and promote a shiny, soft, and healthy coat. These natural oils reduce dryness, flakiness, and overall shedding. Whether your dog has a thick double coat or a sleek short one, these blends deliver the nutrition needed to keep them looking, feeling, and performing their best!

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