How Diet Affects Your Dog’s Skin and Coat: The Complete Guide

When clients bring dogs with skin issues or dull coats, our first question is often about diet. That’s because what dogs eat directly impacts skin and coat health — sometimes dramatically.

Here’s the connection, how to identify diet-related problems, and what changes make the biggest difference.

The Diet-Coat Connection

Your dog’s coat is essentially a nutritional report card. Here’s why:

Coat Growth Demands Resources

Dogs dedicate 25-30% of their daily protein intake to skin and coat. If diet is deficient, the body prioritises vital organs — and coat suffers first.

Skin is the Largest Organ

Skin cells turn over every 3 weeks and require constant nutrition. Deficiencies show up quickly as dryness, flaking, or inflammation.

Fat = Shine

The shine you see on a healthy coat comes from oils produced by the skin. Without adequate dietary fat, coats look dull and feel dry.

Signs of Diet-Related Coat Problems

How do you know if diet is affecting your dog’s coat? Watch for:

Coat Signs

• Dull, lackluster appearance — No shine even when clean
• Dry, brittle fur — Breaks easily, rough texture
• Excessive shedding — Beyond normal seasonal shedding
• Slow coat growth — Takes forever to grow back after grooming
• Colour changes — Fading or reddish tinge (can indicate copper deficiency)

Skin Signs

• Dandruff/flaking — Dry, white flakes
• Itching — Scratching, biting, licking
• Redness or inflammation
• Greasy or oily skin — Overproduction compensating for deficiency
• Hot spots — Moist, inflamed areas

Important: These symptoms can also indicate allergies, parasites, or health issues. If diet changes don’t help within 8-12 weeks, see your vet.

What Skin and Coat Need

Protein

Fur is 95% protein (keratin). Quality protein from named meat sources (chicken, beef, salmon) provides the amino acids needed for coat growth. Low-quality protein = weak, slow-growing coat.

Essential Fatty Acids

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Anti-inflammatory, promotes shine, reduces itching. Found in fish oils, salmon, sardines.

Omega-6 (Linoleic acid): Maintains skin barrier, supports oil production. Found in chicken fat, vegetable oils.

Most dogs need more Omega-3. Learn more about omega supplements for coat health.

Zinc

Essential for skin cell function and coat growth. Deficiency causes hair loss, crusty skin, and slow wound healing. Some breeds (Huskies, Malamutes) are prone to zinc deficiency.

Biotin

B-vitamin that supports keratin production. Deficiency (rare) causes brittle coat and skin issues. Found in eggs, liver, and supplements.

Vitamins A and E

Vitamin A supports skin cell turnover. Vitamin E is an antioxidant protecting skin from damage. Both found in quality commercial diets.

Common Diet Issues We See

1. Low-Quality Protein

The problem: Cheap kibble uses “meat by-products” or plant proteins that dogs don’t utilise as efficiently.

The fix: Choose foods with named meat as the first ingredient. “Chicken” or “salmon” — not “poultry by-product meal.”

2. Insufficient Fat

The problem: “Weight management” or “senior” formulas often have reduced fat, leading to dry coats.

The fix: Add fish oil or other omega-3 source. Consider whether your dog actually needs a low-fat formula.

3. Omega Imbalance

The problem: Most commercial foods have plenty of omega-6 but insufficient omega-3.

The fix: Supplement with fish oil or feed fish-based treats. See our guide to foods that improve coat shine.

4. Food Allergies/Sensitivities

The problem: Some dogs react to common proteins (beef, chicken) or grains with skin inflammation.

The fix: Work with your vet on an elimination diet to identify triggers.

Making Dietary Changes

Switching Foods

If changing your dog’s main diet:

• Transition slowly — 7-10 days, gradually mixing new food with old
• Watch for digestive upset — Loose stool, gas, vomiting
• Give it time — Allow 8-12 weeks to see coat changes

Adding Supplements

Easiest approach is adding omega-3 to current diet:

• Fish oil: 1-2 pumps daily based on dog size
• Omega chews: Follow package directions
• Canned sardines: 1-2 per week (in water, no salt)

We offer groomer-tested supplements and treats specifically for coat health.

Easy Whole Food Additions

• Cooked eggs: 2-3 per week (protein + biotin)
• Cooked salmon: Weekly (omega-3)
• Coconut oil: Small amount for moisture

Timeline for Results

Diet changes don’t show instantly. Here’s what to expect:

Timeframe	What You Might See
2-4 weeks	Reduced itching (if inflammation-related)
4-6 weeks	Improved skin condition, less dandruff
6-8 weeks	New coat growth showing improved quality
8-12 weeks	Significant visible improvement in coat
3+ months	Full coat cycle with optimal results

The coat currently on your dog has already grown. You’re feeding for the coat that’s coming in.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Doodles and Poodle Mixes

Curly coats are prone to dryness. Omega-3 supplementation is particularly beneficial. Combined with proper brushing, you’ll see significant improvement. Breed guides: Cavoodle | Labradoodle | Groodle

White-Coated Dogs

Maltese, Westies, and other white dogs may show tear staining or coat discoloration from food additives or sensitivities. Limited ingredient diets often help.

Double-Coated Breeds

Huskies, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers produce a lot of coat. Adequate protein and fat are essential, especially during shedding season.

When Diet Isn’t the Answer

Diet affects coat health, but it’s not the only factor. See your vet if:

• Diet changes don’t help after 12 weeks
• Skin issues are severe (open sores, hair loss patches)
• Dog is constantly scratching despite adequate omega-3
• You notice other symptoms (lethargy, weight changes, excessive thirst)

Allergies, thyroid issues, parasites, and other health problems can cause coat issues that diet alone won’t fix.

The Complete Approach

For best results, combine nutrition with:

• Regular brushing — Distributes oils, removes dead fur
• Proper bathing — Not too frequent, moisturising shampoo
• Professional grooming — Regular maintenance keeps coat healthy
• The right tools — See our brush comparisons

The Bottom Line

Diet directly impacts coat health. Quality protein, adequate fat (especially omega-3), and proper hydration form the foundation. If your dog’s coat is dull, dry, or brittle, look at the food bowl first.

Want a complete daily routine for optimal coat health? Download our free Doodle Coat Care Guide — it covers nutrition, grooming, and professional care schedules.

Related Reading

Continue exploring our grooming guides:

• Winter Coat Care: Protecting Your Dog’s Skin and Fur in Cold Weather
• Understanding Dog Skin Allergies: Types, Symptoms, and Management
• Common Doodle Skin Problems: What Groomers See and How to Help

Ready to book a professional grooming session? Book your appointment or view our services.