Nutrition

Foods That Make Dog Coats Shiny: A Groomer’s Guide to Feeding for Fur

Posted on by Marine Ponchaut
Golden retriever with shiny healthy coat next to food bowl - dog nutrition for healthy fur
11
Jan
Dog with shiny healthy coat next to nutritious food

After grooming thousands of dogs, we’ve noticed a pattern: the dogs with dull, brittle coats are usually missing something nutritionally. The dogs with gorgeous, shiny coats? Their owners are feeding strategically.

Here’s what actually works for coat health — based on what we observe in our grooming clients.

The Basics: What Coats Need

Dog fur is about 95% protein (keratin), and it requires significant nutritional resources to grow and maintain. A shiny, healthy coat needs:

  • Quality protein — The building blocks of fur
  • Essential fatty acids — For shine and moisture
  • Vitamins and minerals — For skin health and coat growth
  • Adequate hydration — Dry skin = dull coat

Best Proteins for Coat Health

Not all proteins are equal. For coat health, look for:

Fatty Fish

Salmon, sardines, mackerel, and herring are coat superstars. They provide both high-quality protein AND omega-3 fatty acids. Dogs eating fish-based diets often have the shiniest coats we see.

Eggs

Eggs are a complete protein with biotin — both essential for coat health. A few cooked eggs per week can make a visible difference. (Always cook them; raw egg whites can interfere with biotin absorption.)

Quality Meat

Chicken, beef, lamb, and other whole meats provide the amino acids needed for keratin production. Look for named meat sources, not vague “meat meal.”

Organ Meats

Liver and other organs are nutrient-dense, providing vitamins A, B, and E plus zinc — all supporting coat health.

Essential Fats: The Shine Factor

Fat is what makes coats shine. Specifically:

Fish Oil

The gold standard for coat health. Rich in EPA and DHA (omega-3s) that reduce inflammation and promote a glossy coat. Can be added to food or given as treats/supplements.

Flaxseed

Plant-based omega-3 source. Not as effective as fish oil (dogs don’t convert plant omega-3s well) but still beneficial.

Chicken Fat

Good source of omega-6 fatty acids. Most commercial dog foods include this.

Coconut Oil

Can help with skin hydration when used in moderation. Not a true essential fatty acid source but adds moisture.

Balance matters: Most dogs get enough omega-6 but not enough omega-3. Focus on increasing omega-3 intake for best results.

Foods to Include

Food Benefit How to Feed
Salmon Omega-3, protein Cooked, as main protein or topper
Sardines Omega-3, calcium Canned in water (no salt), 1-2 per week
Eggs Protein, biotin Cooked, 2-3 per week
Sweet potato Vitamin A, fiber Cooked, as occasional addition
Blueberries Antioxidants Fresh or frozen, as treats
Carrots Vitamin A Raw or cooked, as treats

Foods That Hurt Coat Health

Low-Quality Kibble

Cheap kibble with corn, wheat, and soy as main ingredients doesn’t provide the protein quality dogs need for healthy coats. If your dog’s main food lists grains in the first three ingredients, consider upgrading.

Too Many Carbohydrates

Dogs don’t need carb-heavy diets. Excess carbs can contribute to inflammation and don’t provide coat-building nutrients.

Artificial Additives

Artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives add nothing nutritionally and may contribute to skin sensitivity in some dogs.

Food Allergens

For dogs with food sensitivities, common allergens (beef, chicken, dairy, wheat) can cause skin issues that affect coat quality. If your dog has chronic skin problems, consider an elimination diet with your vet.

Easy Additions to Any Diet

Even if you’re not changing your dog’s main food, these additions can boost coat health:

Fish Oil Supplement

1-2 pumps of fish oil on food daily. The single most effective coat improvement we recommend.

Canned Sardines

One or two sardines (canned in water, no salt) per week. Dogs love them, and they’re packed with omega-3s.

Cooked Egg

Scrambled or boiled egg a few times per week. Easy protein and biotin boost.

Coconut Oil

Small amount (1/4 to 1 tsp depending on dog size) can add moisture. Start small — too much causes digestive upset.

Don’t Forget Hydration

Dehydration shows in the coat. Ensure your dog:

  • Always has access to fresh, clean water
  • Drinks enough (especially in hot weather or after exercise)
  • Gets moisture from food (wet food or water added to kibble)

Dogs eating only dry kibble may benefit from added moisture in their diet.

What to Expect

Dietary changes affect coat health, but it takes time:

  • 4-6 weeks: Initial improvement in skin condition
  • 6-12 weeks: Visible coat changes (shine, texture)
  • 3+ months: Full coat cycle for optimal results

The current coat has already grown — you’re feeding for the coat that’s coming in. Be patient.

The Complete Approach

Nutrition is foundation, but for the best results, combine with:

  • Regular brushing — Distributes natural oils, removes dead fur
  • Proper bathing — Not too frequent, with moisturising shampoo
  • Professional grooming — Removes undercoat, maintains coat health
  • Quality treats — Omega-rich options that support coat health

For breed-specific nutrition and coat care, check our guides: Cavoodle | Labradoodle | Groodle | Bernedoodle

The Bottom Line

Shiny coats start from the inside. Focus on quality protein, boost omega-3 intake, and avoid filler-heavy foods. Combined with proper grooming, you’ll see real results.

Want a complete daily routine for coat health? Our free Doodle Coat Care Guide covers nutrition, brushing, and professional grooming schedules.

Related Reading

Continue exploring our grooming guides:

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

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