Dog Breeds With Oily Skin

Seborrhea in dogs is caused by a process known as keratinization. Dogs afflicted by seborrhea tend to develop oily skin that can become painful and may feel scaly to the touch. Certain breeds are more prone to this disorder than others. However, any dog can develop oily skin throughout the course of its natural life. Learning how to treat it can save you a great deal of turmoil and reduce pet-related medical costs.

Genetic Predisposition

Many breeds have a genetic predisposition toward oily skin, so avoid having to deal with some of the drawbacks of this condition by avoiding breeds prone to oily skin. The American Cocker Spaniel, Rottweiler, Basset Hound and Dachshund all have a genetic predisposition. Additionally, the English Springer Spaniel, Labrador, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd and West Highland Terrier are also prone to developing oily skin. By choosing breeds that don't have a predisposition to oily skin, you can decrease the chances of having to provide medical care for this condition.

Symptoms

Pay attention if you notice your dog develops oily skin over the course of its life. There are several symptoms that may indicate early warnings of seborrhea. If the dog's skin begins to thicken or if you notice excessive scratching, you should make an appointment with a veterinarian to rule out seborrhea. Additionally, dogs may begin to lose hair, develop skin redness, incur dandruff or generally develop dry and scaly skin. Taking heed of any unusual symptoms with your dog, regardless of the breed can save your pet pain and keep money in your wallet.

Prevention

Prevention may be possible, especially as it relates to infections or parasites. Regular vet checkups, a well-balanced diet designed especially for dogs and using specially medicated shampoos may help prevent oily skin from developing. As skin thickens, it begins to crack and become oily. Moisturizing shampoos can help prevent the condition from progressing to an advanced stage and keep your dog's coat healthy. Omega-3 fatty acids are a key aspect of any diet. Vets may recommend specially formulated foods for more severe symptoms.

Treatment

If all the preventative measures have been taken to attempt treating your canine and it still develops seborrhea, you can take advanced steps with the help of a veterinarian. However, several natural remedies exist to help treat oily skin, including the use of shampoos that have tea tree oil or aloe vera. For extreme cases, your vet can administer steroid and anti-inflammatory drugs. Treatments for advanced seborrhea must be coordinated with a trained veterinarian. Shots, medications and lifestyle changes can all help treat your pet.