Taking care of your dog can feel like a full-time job, especially when you’re starting out. But it’s all worth it. You love them with all your heart, and you want to make sure they feel and look their best at all times.
Your main focus is likely spent trying to improve their internal health: gastrointestinal, joint, teeth, and more. But what about their aesthetics?
The health of your dog’s coat means a lot. Truly, their coat health can be a sign of larger concerns and issues. That’s why it’s important to manage your dog’s coat, putting in work to make it as shiny as possible.
But how do you improve the shine of your dog’s coat? From collagen chews for dogs to regular baths, here’s how you can help your dog’s coat shine brighter than ever.
1. Add collagen.
Collagen for dogs does a lot of good for their coat health. Collagen is often given to dogs because it improves their joint health, but it works many more wonders for their skin and fur.
Chicken collagen tends to be a preferred choice among dogs, as it gives them something tasty to chew on that is packed full of nutrition.
2. Bathe your dog at least once a month.
The simplest way to clean up your dog’s coat is to bathe them at least once a month. But how do you properly bathe your dog?
Washing your dog’s coat is actually pretty simple. First and foremost, you need to find a way to get them into the tub or shower, whether that’s by coaxing them in with treats or placing them in yourself. Once in, lightly wet their body once the water has gotten warm, and then shampoo, rinse, shampoo, and rinse. Then, you’ll want to add conditioner, let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse it. And once that’s done, all you need to do is dry your dog — a hair dryer and towels is the simplest way.
Now, dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors will have to be washed with more regularity, at least twice a month. And if you have a dog that likes to roll around in poop and dead animals, you’ll want to bathe anytime they get into nasty contents.
3. Deshedding is a good move.
Along with washing your dog, you also want to make sure you clean their coat of excess fur. Excess fur not only causes them to look puffy, but it can lead to extra grime and oil collecting on their skin. Instead, get an undercoat brush to properly deshed them every few days. They’ll look like they just got a fresh groom, all the while your house remains free of as much loose hair.
4. Coconut oil goes a long way.
Coconut oil is more than just a treat for your dog. While a teaspoon a day — added to their food or water — can improve their overall health, it can also be applied to their coat. That oil is a great way to improve their coat health, giving them a natural shine that also nourishes their skin.
