Best Dog Food for Skin and Coat: Top Picks for a Healthy and Shiny Coat

A dog’s skin and coat are two of the most visible indicators of their overall health. A shiny, lustrous coat and healthy skin are signs of a well-nourished dog. However, achieving this can be a challenge for many dog owners. The right dog food can make all the difference in maintaining a dog’s skin and coat health.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for skin and coat, there are several things to consider. The first thing to look for is high-quality protein. Protein is essential for healthy skin and coat, and it should come from animal sources like chicken, beef, fish, or lamb. Additionally, look for dog foods that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help improve skin and coat health.

Another factor to consider is the presence of vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, and E, and zinc. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and coat. Additionally, consider the type of dog food you are feeding your dog. Wet dog food is generally more hydrating than dry dog food, which can help improve skin and coat health.

We spent hours researching and testing ten different dog foods to identify the ones that promote healthy skin and coat in dogs. In the following sections, we will share our findings and recommend the best dog food for skin and coat.

Best Dog Food for Skin and Coat

As pet owners, we all want our dogs to have healthy skin and a shiny coat. However, with so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to know which dog food is best for promoting healthy skin and coat. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various brands to bring you our top picks for the best dog food for skin and coat. These products are formulated with high-quality ingredients that are specifically designed to nourish your dog’s skin and coat, leaving them looking and feeling their best.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon 24-lb Salmon 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive skin. This dog food is made with natural ingredients, including real salmon, and is enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to support your dog’s overall health.

Pros

• The omega fatty acids in this dog food are clinically proven to support healthy skin and coat.
• Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is made with wholesome ingredients, including fruits and vegetables, to help care for your dog’s sensitive skin naturally.
• This dog food is recommended by veterinarians and animal nutritionists, and includes antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits.

Cons

• The price of this dog food is higher compared to other similar quality brands.
• The bag contains only 24 pounds of dog food, while similar competitor products have 30-pound bags or greater.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin. The omega fatty acids in this dog food help support healthy skin and coat, and the natural ingredients make it a healthy option for your furry friend.

The wholesome ingredients, including real salmon, fruits, and vegetables, make this dog food a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin. Additionally, the inclusion of LifeSource Bits adds antioxidants to your dog’s diet.

While the price of this dog food is higher compared to other similar quality brands, it is worth the investment for dogs with sensitive skin. However, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it is important to introduce it gradually.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive skin.

Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food, Plus Skin -amp; Coat Formula – 31.1 lb. Bag Salmon 31.1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help support your furry friend’s skin and coat health, Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food, Plus Skin -amp; Coat Formula is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real salmon as the #1 ingredient to support strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• Contains a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, vitamin E, and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a radiant coat.
• Includes four antioxidant sources for a strong immune system and natural glucosamine sources for joint health.

Cons

• Has a fish smell to it that may not be appealing to all dogs.
• Some customers have reported that it was not as beneficial for their dog’s skin as they had hoped.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

We recently tried this dog food with our furry friend who has sensitive skin and a dull coat. After a few weeks of feeding him Purina ONE, we noticed a significant improvement in his coat’s shine and overall health. The kibble size is perfect for his small mouth, and he seems to love the taste.

While the fish smell may be off-putting to some, we didn’t find it to be too strong or unpleasant. However, it’s worth noting that some customers have reported that it was not as beneficial for their dog’s skin as they had hoped.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food that can help support your dog’s skin and coat health, Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food, Plus Skin -amp; Coat Formula is definitely worth considering. It’s made with high-quality ingredients and has several added benefits to promote overall health and well-being.

Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food, Plus Skin -amp; Coat Formula – 16.5 lb. Bag Skin -amp; Coat Salmon 16.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat, Purina ONE Plus Natural Skin -amp; Coat Formula is a great option. We’ve used this dog food for our furry friend and here’s what we found:

Pros

• Real salmon is the #1 ingredient, providing high-quality protein that supports strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• Vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Natural sources of glucosamine help support joint health, while crunchy kibble supports strong teeth and healthy gums.

Cons

• Some customers have complained about the strong fishy smell of the kibble.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with severe food sensitivities.
• The price point is higher than some other brands.

We’ve been using Purina ONE Plus Natural Skin -amp; Coat Formula for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat. It looks shinier and feels softer than ever before. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with real salmon and doesn’t contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Our dog seems to love the taste of the kibble and we’ve had no issues with digestive upset or other adverse reactions. We also like that the kibble is crunchy, which helps support dental health.

However, we have noticed that the kibble has a strong fishy smell, which may be off-putting to some pet owners. Additionally, while this dog food is marketed as being suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, it may not be appropriate for dogs with severe food sensitivities.

Overall, we’ve been very happy with Purina ONE Plus Natural Skin -amp; Coat Formula and would recommend it to other pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy skin and coat, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a solid choice. We highly recommend it for its exceptional nutritional value and limited ingredient list.

Pros

• The air-drying process naturally preserves all ingredients, retaining their nutrients and maximizing flavor.
• Made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe.
• Ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafoods from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• It is expensive and may not fit everyone’s budget.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture.
• The packaging is not resealable, so it may not stay fresh for long periods.

We’ve been using ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The air-drying process locks in the nutrients and flavor, so our dog loves the taste and eagerly eats it every time.

We appreciate that this dog food is made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods like green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe. It’s also ethically and sustainably sourced, which is important to us as responsible pet owners.

While it is on the pricier side, we believe the nutritional value and quality of ingredients are worth the extra cost. However, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture, so it may not be the best fit for everyone.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for its exceptional nutritional value and limited ingredient list. It’s a great choice for any dog owner looking to promote healthy skin and coat in their furry friend.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag Ocean Recipe 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your furry friend’s skin and coat health, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Our Raw Coated dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat.
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side! Our Ocean Recipe includes six fish protein sources that your dog will sure love: trout, whitefish, salmon, cod, mackerel and herring — perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.
• Great for the Skin -amp; Coat: Omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil provide skin and coat support.

Cons

• Price: This dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Short Expiry: Some customers have reported that the product had a short expiry date.
• Taste: While most dogs seem to love the taste of this dog food, some picky eaters might not enjoy it as much.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for a few months now, and we’re really impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier-looking than ever before, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall skin health.

One of the things we love most about this dog food is the fact that it’s made with high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients. We feel good knowing that we’re feeding our dog a nutritious, grain-free recipe that’s packed with whole prey ingredients like animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat.

Another thing we appreciate about this dog food is the fact that it’s fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. We’ve noticed a real improvement in our dog’s overall well-being since we started feeding him this food, and we love that it contains fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health.

Overall, we would highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that supports skin and coat health. While it might be a bit more expensive than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the results speak for themselves.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want your furry friend to have a healthy and shiny coat, you should definitely consider NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• The food is made with high-quality protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon, which provides a balanced diet for adult dogs.
• NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with Non-GMO ingredients and has no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
• The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries provides high levels of antioxidants to give your dog a healthy heart, strong immune system, and a shiny coat.

Cons

• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies.
• The price may be a bit high compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.

We have been using NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food for our furry friend for a few months now, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in his coat’s shine and health. The food’s blend of high-quality protein and superfoods provides the necessary nutrients for our dog to thrive. We appreciate that the food is made with Non-GMO ingredients and has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

However, we have noticed that the food may not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies, and the price may be a bit high compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to transition them to this brand.

Overall, if you want to provide your dog with a nutrient-rich and flavorful diet that promotes a healthy coat, NUTRO ULTRA Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you want to give your furry friend a protein-rich taste with the nutrition they deserve, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• The recipe includes six poultry-free animal protein sources, providing a protein-rich taste dogs crave.
• The recipe is grain-free and easy for dogs of all life stages to digest, with no unnecessary fillers and only the finest ingredients.
• The recipe is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, helping to improve your dog’s entire well-being.

Cons

• The raw chunks in the recipe are not as plentiful as some reviewers would like.
• The price may be higher than some other dog food options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the recipe.

We have been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe for a few weeks now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat. The recipe provides a protein-rich taste that our dog absolutely loves, and we feel good knowing that the recipe is made with responsibly sourced, premium ingredients.

One thing to note is that the raw chunks in the recipe are not as plentiful as some reviewers would like. However, we have found that the freeze-dried raw coating provides enough of the raw taste that our dog craves. Additionally, the recipe is grain-free and easy for dogs of all life stages to digest, with no unnecessary fillers and only the finest ingredients.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe for anyone looking to give their furry friend a nutritious and delicious meal.

NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 15 lb. Bag Lamb,Chicken,Salmon 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for those who want to provide their small breed dogs with a balanced diet that is nutrient-rich and full of flavor.

Pros

• The kibble is made with high-quality ingredients.
• The recipe features a trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon.
• The formula is designed for small breed adult dogs.

Cons

• The price is higher than some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The bag is not resealable.

We have been feeding our small breed dog NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his coat and skin. The kibble is easy for him to chew and digest, and he seems to enjoy the taste.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it is made with high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers. The recipe features a trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon, which provides our dog with the essential nutrients he needs to thrive. We also like that the formula is designed specifically for small breed adult dogs, which means it is tailored to meet their unique nutritional needs.

While the price of this dog food is higher than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, we do acknowledge that some dogs may not like the taste, as taste preferences can vary from dog to dog. Additionally, we wish that the bag was resealable to help keep the kibble fresh.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for those who want to provide their small breed dogs with a balanced and nutritious diet that is also delicious.

IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat, IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E to support healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat.
• Optimal omega 6:3 fatty acid ratio clinically proven to promote skin and coat health. Veterinarians recommend IAMS.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, along with real salmon, to maintain strong, healthy muscles.

Cons

• Trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The 36 lb. bag may be too large for some dog owners.

We recently tried IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food for our furry friend, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog’s skin became noticeably healthier and her coat became shinier after just a few weeks of eating this food.

The formula contains a blend of Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E, which work together to promote healthy skin and a soft, vibrant coat. We also appreciated that the optimal omega 6:3 fatty acid ratio is clinically proven to promote skin and coat health, and that veterinarians recommend IAMS.

The food is made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient, along with real salmon, to maintain strong, healthy muscles. We felt good knowing that our dog was getting high-quality protein from real meat sources.

While we were happy with the results, we did notice that trace amounts of artificial flavors or preservatives may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food. Finally, the 36 lb. bag may be too large for some dog owners.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Advanced Health Skin -amp; Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon, 11-lb

We highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive skin. This natural dog food is formulated with high-quality salmon, whole grains, and other natural ingredients that provide essential nutrients and vitamins to support healthy skin and shiny coat.

Pros

• The omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids in this dog food are clinically proven to support healthy skin and coat.
• Made with only wholesome ingredients, this dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
• Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is recommended by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.

Cons

• This dog food is quite expensive compared to other dog foods in the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• It may take some time to see the results on your dog’s skin and coat.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin. We have seen a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat after switching to this dog food. The natural ingredients in this dog food have made a positive impact on our dog’s overall health and well-being.

This dog food is easy to digest and does not cause any digestive issues or allergies. The packaging is also convenient and easy to store. We highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin -amp; Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food to all dog owners who want to provide their furry friend with the best nutrition for healthy skin and coat.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for skin and coat, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food can have a big impact on their skin and coat health. Look for foods that are high in protein and healthy fats, such as salmon, chicken, and flaxseed. Avoid foods that contain fillers or artificial preservatives, as these can lead to skin irritation and other health issues.

Nutritional Content

Make sure that the food you choose is nutritionally balanced for your dog’s needs. Look for foods that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These standards ensure that the food contains all of the necessary nutrients for your dog’s health.

Allergies and Sensitivities

If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, it’s important to choose a food that is tailored to their needs. Look for foods that are labeled as hypoallergenic or that are free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy.

Supplements

Some dog foods contain supplements that can help support skin and coat health. Look for foods that contain ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, and zinc. These can help improve your dog’s skin and coat health and reduce shedding.

Price

Price is always a consideration when choosing dog food. While it’s important to choose a high-quality food, you don’t want to break the bank. Look for foods that are within your budget and that offer good value for the price.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best dog food for your pet’s skin and coat health. Remember to consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in dog food to improve skin and coat health?

To improve skin and coat health, look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources like chicken, lamb, or fish. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are also important, as they can help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat health. Ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach can also provide essential vitamins and minerals that are important for skin and coat health.

How does homemade dog food benefit a dog’s skin and coat?

Homemade dog food can benefit a dog’s skin and coat by allowing pet owners to control the ingredients that go into their dog’s food. By using high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich vegetables, pet owners can provide their dogs with the essential vitamins and minerals they need for healthy skin and coat.

Are there specific dog food brands recommended for dogs with skin allergies?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as dogs with skin allergies may have different dietary needs. However, some dog food brands that offer limited ingredient diets or novel protein sources may be beneficial for dogs with skin allergies. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.

What supplements can be added to a dog’s diet to help with dry skin?

Supplements like fish oil or flaxseed oil can be added to a dog’s diet to help with dry skin. These supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat health. Vitamin E and biotin supplements may also be beneficial for dogs with dry skin.

How often should I feed my dog to maintain a healthy skin and coat?

The frequency of feeding your dog depends on their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, adult dogs should be fed twice a day. Puppies may need to be fed more frequently. It’s important to provide your dog with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.

What are the signs that my dog’s food is positively affecting their skin and coat?

If your dog’s food is positively affecting their skin and coat, you may notice that their coat is shiny and soft. Their skin may also be less dry and flaky. Additionally, your dog may have less itching and scratching. It’s important to monitor your dog’s overall health and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any changes in their skin or coat.