| Typically, owners will find that a poorly conditioned coat | | | | as much as long haired dogs. In fact, the difference is |
| is symptomatic of other health issues. Often a dog's | | | | that short haired dogs are constantly shedding and if |
| coat is an indicator of his, or her, general health. | | | | they are not brushed daily, these hairs will be deposited |
| Subsequently, it is advisable for all owners to note any | | | | on your furniture. |
| differences in a dog's coat and investigate the possible | | | | 6. It is equally important that dogs are bathed regularly. |
| causes. | | | | This can be an unpleasant chore, especially if your dog |
| Below you will find nine tips on how to improve the | | | | is particularly resistant to the idea of a bath. However, |
| condition of your dog's coat. | | | | regular baths (twice or three times a month) will ensure |
| 1. Ensure that your dog is getting a balanced diet, which | | | | that your dog's coat is always in immaculate condition. |
| includes all of the necessary nutrients. To achieve the | | | | 7. If your dog's poorly conditioned coat is due to a skin |
| right balance of nutrients, dogs need to have the right | | | | condition, such as an allergy or dermatitis, you may find |
| amounts of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and | | | | it necessary to bathe your dog more frequently. Your |
| minerals. Unfortunately, a good quality dog food usually | | | | veterinarian will be able to advise you on how to care |
| means a more expensive brand. However, it is worth | | | | for your dog's specific needs. |
| remembering that it may prove to be less expensive | | | | 8. As mentioned above, poor health can be the cause |
| than coping with health problems caused by dietary | | | | of a dull, dry or patchy coat. However, it is not |
| deficiency. | | | | necessarily indicative of a physical health problem. In |
| 2. If your dog has a dull coat, it may be improved with | | | | other words, a lack of coat condition may be the result |
| an increase in fatty acids. Therefore, some owners | | | | of stress, anxiety or grief. If your dog has experienced |
| choose to add, sunflower or olive oil to their dog's food. | | | | a recent sudden change in circumstances, such as |
| This can be provided with a couple of spoonfuls mixed | | | | moving home, the death of a companion (human or |
| in with the dog's usual food. Alternatively, some | | | | animal) or an addition in the family, it is wise to offer |
| owners dip a slice of bread in oil and offer it with the | | | | him, or her, as much reassurance and affection as |
| dog's meal. | | | | possible. With luck, the anxiety will pass in a short |
| 3. Ensure that your dog has regular trips to the vet. Of | | | | period. |
| course, no dog enjoys visiting the veterinarian, but, as | | | | 9. If, however, the problem does not subside, it is a |
| far as a dog's coat is concerned, it is crucial to make | | | | good idea to pay a visit to your veterinarian who may |
| sure that your pet is not home to parasites, such as | | | | be able to prescribe medication or refer you to a |
| fleas and ticks. | | | | professional animal trainer. |
| 4. Additionally, regularly veterinary checks will help to | | | | Remember, your dog's coat is a good indicator of his, |
| diagnose potential health problems early, which means | | | | or her, general health. Therefore, it is wise to notice |
| that they are generally easier to treat. | | | | any changes that could be symptomatic of a serious |
| 5. One of the most important factors in improving coat | | | | issue. If in any doubt about the cause of your dog's |
| condition is to regularly brush your dog. Some owners | | | | poorly conditioned coat, visit a veterinarian. |
| erroneously believe that short haired dogs do not shed | | | | |