Cold weather & your dog’s skin

Winter weather can be harsh on your dog’s skin, especially if he’s a senior. As dogs age, their oil-secreting glands slow down, making them prone to dry skin. The cold winter air and dry indoor heat only aggravate the condition, causing itching and flaking that may lead to constant scratching, biting or licking.
To help your pet survive the winter with a healthy skin and coat, follow these suggestions:
Use a room humidifier
The air in most houses becomes dry during the colder months, which depletes moisture from your dog’s skin and fur. A humidifier adds needed moisture to the air.
Keep baths to a minimum
Bathing removes essential oils from the skin and can increase the chance of developing flaky skin. When you bathe your senior dog, use a moisturizing shampoo from the pet store. Human soaps and shampoos are formulated for human skin pH and may cause dry, irritated, itchy skin. Dry him with thick towels before taking him outdoors. A blow drier at this age can be harsh on dry skin. Consult your vet about the recommended number of baths per month for your dog.
Brush your dog regularly
Brushing improves skin, coat and circulation. Plus, clean fur lofts and holds warmth in much the same way that layering clothes do.
Never shave your dog down to the skin
It’s fine to give your dog a trim, but for added warmth, be sure to leave his coat a little longer in the winter.
Give your dog fatty-acid supplements
Older dogs may no longer produce enough of the fatty acids needed to keep their skin and coat healthy.
Start the supplements several weeks before cold weather sets in to provide the cells of the skin with necessary nutrients.
Increase his food if he’s very active
If your dog engages in a lot of outdoor activities, you may need to feed him more of his regular food to provide added energy and keep his coat thick and healthy.
Buy him a coat
Senior dogs need extra protection from winter weather. Unless your dog has his own thick fur, make him wear a warm sweater or coat and booties when he goes out on very cold days.
Dry winter skin is a problem for many dogs but it doesn’t have to be. With a little help from you, your pooch can have a healthy coat and a scratch-free winter.