Vizsla is a medium-sized dog with a sleek, easy-care coat, making it an ideal pet in warmer climates. It is a very healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, but there are some concerns related to its skin. You might feel their skin dry and rough sometimes. But what if it is not normal? Should you be worried about that? Do Vizslas Have Dry Skin?
Yes, Vizsla can have dry skin. Of course, any dog can get dry skin, but it seems more common in Vizsla’s than in other breeds. The breed is famous for hunting and waterwork, so they tend to have a higher amount of oils in their coats which helps protect them from the elements. But because they are such high-energy dogs, they also sweat more than other breeds, which leads to drier coats and skin.
This blog post will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about dry skin in Vizslas.
Do Vizslas Have Dry Skin?
Yes, Vizslas can have dry skin, but it is not a common problem. The Vizsla has an undercoat that protects them from the heat and cold of their environment.
Vizslas have a double coat with an oily outer coat and a dry, fluffy undercoat. The oil from the outer layer of fur keeps their skin moist when transferred to the inner coat. However, if your Vizsla’s diet does not contain enough fat or oils (such as fish-based supplements), the outer coat may not be providing enough natural oil to keep your dog’s skin moisturized. That’s why you see Vizslas with dry, flaky skin that can lead to itchiness and hair loss when they are on specific diets or have been subject to excessive grooming.
Causes Of Dry Skin In Vizslas
There are many causes for dry skin in dogs, including:
Lack Of Water Intake
Vizslas are a hunting breed, and they need to keep moving. Unfortunately, this hunting activity causes them to lose a lot of water through their mouth and nose, which means it’s essential for them to drink large amounts throughout the day.
Aggressive Grooming Or Brushing
When we groom or brush our dogs more often than necessary, it can cause the natural oils of the outer coat to be transferred to the undercoat. When these oils are not replaced, dry skin may occur.
Temperature fluctuations:
Vizslas are well-equipped for cold and hot weather. Still, if your Vizsla is living in a climate with extreme changes in temperature (such as Texas or Arizona), they may not be able to regulate their body’s temperature.
Allergies:
Common food allergies for the Vizsla include beef, chicken, wheat, and corn. If your dog has these allergies, they will itch profusely and chew at themselves until they bleed.
Environmental Triggers:
Environmental triggers for dry skin in dogs include fleas, ticks, and other pests. With regular parasite prevention treatments or topical application of tick treatment such as Frontline Plus, you can prevent these.
Lack Of Dietary Fat:
If your Vizsla’s diet does not contain enough fat or oils (such as fish-based supplements), the outer coat may not be providing enough natural oil to keep your dog’s skin moisturized. That’s why you see Vizslas with dry, flaky skin that can lead to itchiness and hair loss when they are on specific diets or have been subject to excessive grooming.
Use Of Certain Medications:
Some medications can irritate the skin and cause dryness. Therefore, it is essential to discuss any supplements or medication you give your Vizsla with a veterinarian before giving them anything new, especially for an extended period.
Underlying Health Conditions:
Some medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism or diabetes, can cause dry skin. Therefore, you should consult your veterinarian if your Vizsla is not responding to the treatments mentioned above.
Preventive Measures For Dry Skin In Vizslas
There are several things you can do to prevent dry skin in Vizslas. These include:
Feeding The Right Food
Choose food with a good balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids and include fish oil supplements in their diet. Remember that omega 3 is essential for their fur and other health benefits, so pay attention to their diet and adjust accordingly.
Providing Plenty Of Movement
Whether they’re running outside or playing inside, your Vizsla needs plenty of opportunities to move.
Providing Plenty Of Fresh Water
Ensure that they have access to a fresh water supply at all times and make an effort to ensure they drink enough throughout the day.
Bathing Your Vizsla Regularly
Vizslas are high maintenance when it comes to baths, so you may want to consider bathing them once a month. Dry skin on Vizslas can also indicate allergies, so it’s essential to remove any allergens from their skin if they don’t get relief from other treatments.
Do not bathe your dog too often, as this might cause more dryness and even itchiness due to removing natural oils.
Applying Skin Moisturizers
You can also apply moisturizers to your Vizsla’s skin as needed. Still, it is essential to use products specifically made for dogs and avoid human medications such as petroleum jelly, which could lead to toxic poisoning in some cases. Coconut oil may be a good option if you have an allergy-prone Vizsla.
Regular Coat Grooming:
Brushing your dog’s fur removes dead hair and redistributes oil faster. In addition, it helps to limit dry skin and keep your Vizsla’s coat healthy.
Do I Need To Moisturize My Dog For Dry Skin?
You should also consider a moisturizer, which you can purchase in any pet store. A popular solution for dry skin on dogs is coconut oil or olive oil mixed with the dog’s food.
The easiest way to apply this mixture is by adding it to your Vizsla’s meal and then just letting him lick the bowl when he feels hungry. You can also mix it with their food or give them a dish of coconut oil to lick on its own.
Some dogs may not have any reaction, while others might experience loose stools and diarrhea from ingesting too much coconut oil. If you choose this treatment for dry skin, be sure to keep an eye on your Vizsla and adjust accordingly.
Do You Know Any Other Treatments For Vizslas Dry Skin?
Some people find that applying lotion or vaseline for humans can work, but it is also essential to make sure you purchase one specifically for dogs or ask your vet before using it. You could also add a teaspoon of coconut oil into their food and see if they respond well to the treatment.
Can I Put Coconut Oil On My Dog For Dry Skin?
Yes, you can apply coconut oil to your Vizsla’s skin as needed.
Can You Put Vaseline On A Dog’s Dry Skin?
It’s best not to use petroleum jelly on a dog with dry skin because it could lead to toxic poisoning in some cases. Some people find that applying lotion or vaseline for humans can work, but it is also essential to make sure you purchase one specifically for dogs or ask your vet before using it.
Can I Put Olive Oil On My Dog For Dry Skin?
Yes, you can apply olive oil to a Vizsla’s skin as needed, and some people find that this works very well. Just be careful when you purchase the oil, as not all oils are safe for dogs.
Can I Apply Human Creams To My Vizslas Dry Skin?
You can apply human creams to your Vizsla’s skin as needed, but it is crucial to make sure you purchase one specifically for dogs or ask your vet before using it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vizslas can have dry skin due to a variety of reasons. If you’re looking for ways to prevent the symptoms from getting worse, consider providing plenty of movement and fresh water.
Bathe your Vizsla regularly and apply moisturizers as needed. If you are concerned about allergies, be sure to get relief through other treatments before bathing them.
If these treatments are not working, talk with your veterinarian about what else you can do to reduce the dryness in your Vizsla’s skin.
