Let us start by saying that sensitive skin is not a cause for immediate panic. Just like many people, any dog can suddenly be affected. Fortunately, there are solutions to address and prevent this. Moreover, there is a big difference between sensitive skin and an actual skin problem. The former is usually caused by itching and flaking, whereas with skin problems there is more going on and often there is a medical background.
Does your dog have itchy, red and flaky skin? Then his skin, the largest organ of his body, is most likely overreacting to certain things or circumstances. Would you like to know what these are and how you can treat and prevent sensitive skin? Then be sure to read on!
Irritating
Perhaps you have already suffered from sensitive skin. Then you undoubtedly know how terribly annoying it can be. It is no different for your four-legged friend. To help your dog or cat get rid of that irritating and tight feeling and to prevent skin infections, it is important to treat the skin with mild products. Before starting to use the appropriate products, it is important to know the various underlying causes of sensitive skin in order to use the appropriate care.
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
A first possible cause of sensitive skin is heredity. If the mother has a skin problem when giving birth to her offspring, it can also be passed on to the puppies. Sometimes the sensitivity also depends on the breed. Some breeds, for example the shar-pei and golden retriever, are more prone to skin problems than others. A genetically sensitive dog's skin is thinner than a normal one. Extra gentle care is then crucial! More on that in this blog.
Allergies and food
Dogs can be allergic to many different things. Sometimes it takes a long quest to know what exactly they are allergic to. It may be due to irritants in the air or through contact with the skin, but also due to food. Feeding the wrong food to your four-legged friend can lead to rashes, scaly skin and lots of itching. The animal may also be allergic to insect bites, for example. Does your dog suffer from fleas? Then he may be covered in small red bumps and go crazy with itching. An allergy can, in fact, also be caused by the saliva of flea bites. In case of extreme allergic reactions, we recommend you consult a vet. Together, you can find out what allergy your pet is suffering from and how it can be treated.
An itch to scratch
Skin inflammations can also cause sensitive skin. For example, a dog may suffer from so-called hotspots. These are local inflammations on the skin that require medical treatment. Dogs that swim a lot are extra sensitive to hotspots, which develop when the same place is scratched, bitten or licked repeatedly. This local skin inflammation can be caused by a small wound that gets infected or sometimes just out of the blue. By licking, biting or scratching, your dog tries to get rid of the annoying itch, but that only makes the hotspot worse... Which brings us to the next possible cause: fleas or other parasites. These itchy little creatures can cause your four-legged friend a lot of discomfort. It is possible that he suddenly wakes up from dreamland and then starts scratching in panic. You can read how to treat fleas here. Ear infections can also cause sensitive, itchy skin, and more specifically, around the neck, ears and eyes.
Dry skin
Often, sensitive skin is also dry, and dry skin automatically results in a dry coat... Moisturising is therefore the message! By frequently using an appropriate shampoo that moisturises the coat, the skin will also benefit. Timaha Clay Shampoo, a special clay shampoo with fruit extracts, rebalances the coat and skin and minimises irritation.
Bisabolol, a chamomile extract, helps to reduce itching, redness and irritation and soothes the skin. It also has an analgesic and soothing effect. Looking for effective products with this ingredient? Then be sure to try the multifunctional Protect and Shine Serum and the nourishing Moisturising Coat Oil.
Wrong shampoos
Sometimes people use a baby shampoo or other mild shampoo to wash their pets. Although at first glance you would think that this would not do any harm, it is better to wash your four-legged friend with a professional shampoo that has been especially developed for dogs and/or cats. Animals with sensitive skin can react hypersensitive to certain ingredients. Therefore, it is essential to use a hypoallergenic shampoo based on natural ingredients that is gentle on the coat and skin. The super mild Sensational Salon Shampoo is suitable for daily use on dogs and cats, both in the grooming salon and at home. Its formula has a neutral pH value and consists of natural ingredients, avoiding irritations and allergic reactions.
What about hairless dogs and cats?
Do you have a hairless dog or cat? Then you undoubtedly know that these animals have sensitive and fragile skin. That is why it is very important to give them special care. In addition to good sun protection, it is important to regularly exfoliate the skin of these breeds. A good exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and excess sebum, making the skin of your cute friend healthier. The Skinsational Pet Scrub is the ideal solution! This unique scrub, based on sugar granules and omega-rich avocado oil, helps to tackle clogged pores and hydrate the skin. It is easy to use and much gentler than salt scrubs. Your dog's or cat's skin will be more balanced and silkier to the touch. Great, right?
Also interesting to know
Finally, we would like to give some general tips:
- Like people, dogs and cats can be sensitive to certain foods, so take a close look at his or her diet and change it if necessary. By choosing an appropriate diet, many skin problems can be solved or even prevented.
- Stress, fear or nervousness can also cause enormous itching in your pet. In this case, the itching has nothing to do with sensitive skin. It is simply a way for your dog or cat to get rid of negative feelings.
- Do you have a long-haired dog? Then it is extremely important to wash him or her at least once a week.
- Take your dog or cat to the groomer regularly. It is important not only for the appearance but also for your pet's health. Frequent visits to the dog or cat groomer help keep hair and skin in optimal condition. If you notice an infection or skin problem, it is always advisable though to consult your vet for a full diagnosis and treatment.
Hopefully, the above information has helped you to correctly care for and treat the sensitive skin of your four-legged friend. Still having questions? Feel free to ask us in the comments below, via the chat on our website or Facebook Messenger, by email or by phone. Good luck!
Looking for info on another subject? Be sure to check out our other blogs. For more professional advice from our grooming experts and explanations about our products, you can also visit Transgroom TV or the Show Tech YouTube channel.
