Itchy, irritated skin is one of the most common problems dogs face. To keep them comfortable and healthy, veterinarians recommend a combination of proper nutrition and sometimes natural supplements.
In a market saturated with thousands of products promising dramatic results, how do you know which supplements will actually deliver on their claims and give you the most bang for your buck? The very first thing you should do when considering a particular supplement is review the ingredients list.
The following ingredients are found to be beneficial to your pup’s skin and coat.
Fish Oil
Fish oil supplements contain two essential omega-3 fatty acids called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve itching and inflammation, as well as promote a healthy, shiny coat. Many supplements contain salmon oil.
You may also see Krill Oil and Anchovy Oil in supplements’ ingredients list. Krill oil and anchovy oil are considered superior due to their lower position on the food chain which results in more purity. Krill oil is largely considered the best out there for pets as it is often sourced in cleaner waters where it has very minimal chance of coming into contact with pollution.
In addition, krill oil naturally contains nutrients that are gentler on pups’ stomachs and make it easier for their digestive system to absorb the EPA and DHA. Supplements with krill oil boast having no fishy smell, which is a plus!
Polygonum Root
The roots of the indigenous Chinese plant, Polygonum multiflorum, have been used in eastern medicine for centuries. They provide a great source of iron and zinc, contain potent antioxidants, help flush the body of harmful free radicals, and promote skin and hair coat health.
Black Sesame Seed
Experiments have shown that black sesame seeds have the highest vitamin E content of any plant-based food. They too, have been used for centuries in Chinese medicine for skin and hair coat health. In addition to vitamin E, black sesame seeds contain linoleic acid (LA).
DHA
Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil but also sometimes derived from algae. It supports brain and eye development in puppies and healthy skin and coat in dogs. Like EPA, DHA helps reduce the body’s inflammatory response.
Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA)
GLA is an essential Omega-6 fatty acid and a powerful anti-inflammatory. GLA can be found in a variety of plant oils. For example Borage Oil and Evening Primrose Oil, are two sources of GLA that fight dryness and cracked skin to promote a soft, shiny coat.
We’d like to take a moment to recommend our Project Paws™ Omega-3 Select soft chews. The supplement’s natural ingredients were specially formulated by a holistic veterinarian to support a soft, silky coat, minimize shedding, and maintain the skin’s moisture. They’re made with wholesome ingredients and dogs LOVE the flavor! We use them as a daily reward for your pup.
The unique formula makes these delicious, chewy treats the most comprehensive skin & coat supplement on the market!
In addition to supporting skin and coat health, the ingredients in Project Paws Omega-3 Select soft chews have the additional benefits of promoting joint health, heart health, immune system health, cellular health, and brain and eye development/maintenance.
Best of all? These Omega-3 chews give back to shelter animals! Each purchase provides 14 healthy meals to shelter dogs.
Featured Image via Flickr/Stuart Richards
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.
via Whisker Therapy