The Power of Your Dog’s Skin 

Protection, Immunity, Hydration & More

Protection

  • Shields against outside factors, chemicals, and environmental stressors.
  • Protects internal organs from harm.
  • Contains nerves that sense heat, cold, pressure, and pain.
  • Acts as a defense against UV rays and chemical damage.

Immunity

  • A strong skin barrier prevents infections.
  • Supports the immune system to fight harmful bacteria.
  • Compromised skin immunity can lead to serious diseases.

Thermoregulation

  • Helps regulate body temperature with an insulating coat.
  • Adjusts hair follicles for warmth or cooling.
  • Shivering helps generate heat.

Hydration

  • Maintains hydration levels since pets do not sweat.
  • Prevents excess water loss (trans-epidermal water loss).
  • Supports metabolic energy needs.

Tailored Food for Healthy Skin & Shiny Coats

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Dog Skin

How to Improve Your Dog’s Skin and Coat Health – Anywhere, Anytime

Your dog’s skin and coat health isn’t just about looking good—it’s a reflection of their overall well-being. Whether you have a playful puppy or a wise adult dog, a healthy coat means a happy pup. But how do you ensure your furry friend’s coat stays shiny and skin stays itch-free, no matter where you are? Here are easy and effective tips you can follow at home or on the go!

✓ Healthy Skin
✕ Skin Issues

Smooth & Hydrated: Skin is soft, moisturized, and free from dandruff or irritation.

Dry & Flaky: Dandruff, rough texture, or excessive itching.

Clear & Even-Toned: Skin is free from redness, rashes, or inflammation.

Red or Inflamed: Signs of irritation, rashes, or hot spots.

Odor-Free & Clean: Skin has no foul smell or sores.

Bad Odor & Sores: May indicate infections, allergies, or skin disease.

Full Coverage: No bald spots; even hair growth all over the body.

Bald Spots: Patchy hair loss, often due to allergies, parasites, or underlying health issues.

✓ Healthy Coat
✕ Coat Issues

Shiny & Soft: Fur is glossy, smooth.

Excessive Shedding: Hair loss, dull coat, or brittle fur.

Tangle-Free & Manageable: Fur is easy to groom, with no knots or clumps.

Matted or Tangled Hair: Clumped fur that can cause discomfort, skin infections, and restrict movement.

Even & Thick: Coat has a consistent texture and density.

Uneven Fur: Patchy or inconsistent coat texture, which may signal poor nutrition, stress, or skin conditions.

Understanding Canine Skin & Coat Health: Key Layers & Functions

Around 10% to 15% of their total body weight. A dog's skin is composed of the dermis, the epidermis, and the hypodermis.

SourceProtexin Veterinary. (n.d.). A guide to skin health for dogs and cats.

Epidermis (Outer Layer)

‣ The epidermis acts as a protective barrier against environmental irritants, bacteria, and allergens.

‣ Unlike humans, dogs have thinner epidermal layers, making them more prone to dryness, infections, and allergies.

‣ Regular grooming and omega fatty acids (Omega-3 & Omega-6) help maintain a strong, healthy barrier.

Dermis (Middle Layer)

‣ Contains hair follicles, sebaceous glands (which produce oils), and blood vessels.

‣ Sebaceous glands produce natural oils that keep the coat shiny and hydrated.

‣ Hydration & proper nutrition (like a diet rich in high-quality proteins and essential fats) help maintain a strong dermis.

Hypodermis (Deepest Layer)

‣ Made up of fat and connective tissue, this layer insulates the body and protects internal organs.

‣ Dogs with poor diets or underlying health conditions may have weaker fat layers, leading to dry skin and brittle fur.

‣ Balanced nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight contribute to a well-functioning hypodermis.

Key Factors Affecting Canine Skin & Coat Health

Diet & Nutrition

Proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins like Vitamin E, Biotin, and Zinc improve coat quality.

Supplements

Omega-3s from fish oil can reduce inflammation & itching.

Hydration

Ensuring enough water intake prevents flaky, dry skin.

Parasite Prevention

Fleas, ticks, and mites cause severe irritation and hair loss.

Regular Grooming

Brushing distributes natural oils and removes dead hair.

Allergy Management

Dogs with food or environmental allergies often show itchiness, redness, and hair loss.

Support Your Dog’s Skin & Coat with the Right Food

Salmon Bleu Dog
Salmon Bleu Puppy
Le Lamb
Le Lamb for Small Breed
Duck Royale Entrée for Small Breed
Wild Island New Zealand Pacific Catch

Suitable For: All lifestages of dogs

Who Should Buy This?: Pet parents looking for a fish-based adult formula

Key Protein: New Zealand King Salmon

Key Benefits: Supports skin & coat health, rich in Omega-3, B-Vitamins for growth and development, anti-oxidant rich berries against free radicals, Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat

Grain-Free: Yes

Taurine-Enriched: Supports heart health, aids in preventing DCM , Promotes premium nutrition

Added Supplements: Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3 & 6 Source: Salmon oil, Flaxseed

Bag Sizes Available: 4lb (1.8kg), 20lb (9kg), 33lb (15kg)

Suitable For: Puppies

Who Should Buy This?: Pet parents looking for a nutrient-rich puppy formula

Key Protein: New Zealand King Salmon

Key Benefits: Supports growth & development, rich in DHA, B-vitamins for growth and development, anti-oxidant rich berries against free radicals, Omega-3 from King Salmon for skin & coat health

Grain-Free: Yes

Taurine-Enriched: Supports heart health, Aids in preventing DCM , Promotes premium nutrition

Added Supplements: DHA, Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3 & 6 Source: Salmon oil, Flaxseed

Bag Sizes Available: 4lb (1.8kg), 20lb (9kg)

Suitable For: All lifestages of dogs

Who Should Buy This?: Pet parents looking for a lamb-based adult formula

Key Protein: New Zealand Free-Range Lamb

Key Benefits: Supports digestive health & skin health

Grain-Free: Yes

Taurine-Enriched: Supports heart health, aids in digestion and overall immune function, enhances skin & coat health

Added Supplements: Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3 & 6 Source: Fish Oil 

Bag Sizes Available: 4lb (1.8kg), 33lb (15kg)

Suitable For: All lifestages of small breed dogs

Who Should Buy This?: Pet parents looking for a small breed-friendly lamb formula

Key Protein: New Zealand Free-Range Lamb

Key Benefits: Supports skin & coat health, smaller kibble for small breeds

Grain-Free: Yes

Taurine-Enriched: Supports heart health, aids in digestion and overall immune function, enhances skin & coat health

Added Supplements: Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3 & 6 Source: Fish Oil 

Bag Sizes Available: 3.3lb (1.5kg)

Suitable For: All lifestages of small breed dogs

Who Should Buy This?: Pet parents looking for a small breed-friendly duck formula

Key Protein: New Zealand Free-Range Lamb

Key Benefits: Small, bite-sized kibble perfect for tiny teeth. Enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Includes New Zealand superfoods like kiwifruit, green-lipped mussels, and manuka honey to support the immune system.

Grain-Free: Yes

Taurine-Enriched: Premium New Zealand Duck, Omega-3 and 6 Blend, Balanced Nutrition

Added Supplements: Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3 & 6 Source: Flaxseed and Fish Oil

Bag Sizes Available: 3.3lb (1.5kg)

Suitable For: Adult dogs

Who Should Buy This?: Pet parents who are looking for a high protein formula with sustainably sourced fish

Key Protein: Sustainably sourced New Zealand King Salmon, Mackerel, and Hoki

Key Benefits: High protein content (40% minimum) to support muscle development. Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Includes Green-lipped mussel for joint health. Enhanced with Manuka honey and kiwifruit to boost the immune system.

Grain-Free: Yes

Taurine-Enriched: Enhances skin & coat health, aids in digestion and overall immune function, 40% ultra high protein

Added Supplements: Omega-3, Ultrahigh Protein, Prebiotics

Omega-3 & 6 Source:  King Salmon, Mackerel, Hoki, Flaxseed, and Coconut Oil

Bag Sizes Available: 4 lbs (1.8 kg), 20 lbs (9 kg)

Support Your Dog’s Skin & Coat with the Right Food

Salmon Bleu Dry Dog Food Salmon Bleu Dry Dog Food
Salmon Bleu Dry Puppy Food Salmon Bleu Dry Puppy Food
Le Lamb Dry Dog Food Le Lamb Dry Dog Food
Le Lamb for Small Breed Le Lamb for Small Breed
Duck Royale for Small Breed Duck Royale for Small Breed
Wild Islands NZ Pacific Catch Wild Islands NZ Pacific Catch

Suitable For

All Lifestages of Dogs

Puppies

All Lifestages of Dogs

All Lifestages of Small Breed Dogs

All Lifestages of Small Breed Dogs

Adult Dogs

Who Should Buy This?

Pet parents looking for a fish-based adult formula

Pet parents looking for a nutrient-rich puppy formula

Pet parents looking for a lamb-based adult formula

Pet parents looking for a small breed-friendly lamb formula

Pet parents looking for a small breed-friendly lamb formula

Pet parents who are looking for a high protein formula with sustainably sourced fish

Key Protein

New Zealand King Salmon

New Zealand King Salmon

New Zealand Free-Range Lamb

New Zealand Free-Range Lamb

Premium New Zealand Duck

Sustainably sourced New Zealand King Salmon, Mackerel, and Hoki

Key Benefits

Supports skin & coat health, rich in Omega-3, B-Vitamins for Growth and Development, Anti-oxidant Rich Berries against free radicals, Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Healthy Skin and Coat

Supports growth & development, rich in DHA, B-Vitamins for Growth and Development, Anti-oxidant Rich Berries against free radicals, Omega-3 from King Salmon for Skin & Coat Health

Supports digestive health & skin health

Supports skin & coat health, smaller kibble for small breeds

Small, bite-sized kibble perfect for tiny teeth.Enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Includes New Zealand superfoods like kiwifruit, green-lipped mussels, and manuka honey to support the immune system.

High protein content (40% minimum) to support muscle development. Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Includes Green-lipped Mussel for joint health. Enhanced with Manuka Honey and Kiwifruit to boost the immune system.

Grain-Free

Taurine-Enriched

Supports heart healthAids in preventing DCM Promotes premium nutrition

Supports heart health, Aids in preventing DCM , Promotes premium nutrition

Supports heart health, aids in digestion and overall immune function, enhances skin & coat health

Supports heart health, aids in digestion and overall immune function, enhances skin & coat health

Premium New Zealand Duck, Omega-3 and 6 Blend, Balanced Nutrition

Enhances skin & coat health, aids in digestion and overall immune function, 40% ultra high protein

Added Supplements

Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

DHA, Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotic

Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3, Omega-6, Prebiotics

Omega-3, Ultrahigh Protein, Prebiotics

Omega-3 & 6 Source

Salmon Oil, Flaxseed

Salmon oil, Flaxseed

Fish Oil 

Fish Oil 

Flaxseed and Fish Oil

King Salmon, Mackerel, Hoki, Flaxseed, and Coconut Oil

Bag Sizes Available

4lb (1.8kg), 20lb (9kg), 33lb (15kg)

4lb (1.8kg), 20lb (9kg)

4lb (1.8kg), 33lb (15kg)

3.3lb (1.5kg)

3.3lb (1.5kg)

4 lbs (1.8 kg), 20 lbs (9 kg)

Dog Skin & Coat Care FAQs

Over-bathing is a common mistake! Puppies have developing skin barriers, and too many baths strip away natural oils, leading to dry, flaky skin. Reduce bath frequency (every 3-4 weeks) and use pH-balanced, puppy-safe shampoos with oatmeal or aloe vera. If flakes persist, check for mites, fungal infections, or food allergies.

Absolutely! Many puppy skin allergies stem from food sensitivities, particularly to chicken, dairy, wheat, or soy. Instead of frequent vet visits for medicated shampoos, try elimination diets with novel proteins like venison, rabbit, or fish. Also, probiotics help strengthen gut health, which in turn reduces allergic reactions.

For puppies with sensitive skin, look for:

  • DHA & EPA (Omega-3s) –Found in fish oil, crucial for reducing inflammation.
  • Zinc & Biotin –Supports keratin production for stronger fur.
  • Colostrum & Probiotics –Helps build immunity against skin irritants.
  • Evening Primrose Oil –A natural anti-inflammatory for itchy skin.

As dogs age, their immune system weakens, and their skin barrier thins, making them more prone to infections. Factors include:

  • Slower cell regeneration
  • Increased oil buildup (leading to bacterial overgrowth)
  • Weakened immune defenses to prevent recurring infections, feed an antioxidant-rich diet, regularly clean skin folds (for breeds prone to yeast infections), and consider immune-boosting supplements like colostrum.

Puppies often go through a “coat transition” where their soft, fluffy baby fur is replaced by their adult coat. This can cause temporary dullness. However, if your pup’s coat remains lackluster, it could be due to nutritional gaps, dehydration, or an underlying health issue. Ensure they’re getting enough Omega-3s (DHA & EPA), high-quality proteins, and zinc in their diet.

Yes and no. Older dogs experience slower cell turnover and reduced oil production, which can lead to increased shedding. However, excessive shedding can signal hormonal imbalances (like hypothyroidism), nutrient deficiencies, or underlying skin conditions. If shedding is paired with bald spots, itchy skin, or coat thinning, consult your vet.

A brittle, thinning coat is often a nutrient absorption issue in seniors. As dogs age, their ability to absorb key nutrients like biotin, zinc, and Omega-6 fatty acids declines. Upgrade their diet with hydrolyzed proteins, fish oil, and vitamin E. Regular brushing also helps by distributing natural oils and improving circulation.

Dandruff in older dogs often means reduced skin hydration. Their sebaceous glands slow down with age, leading to flaky skin. Try adding coconut oil or omega-rich fish oil to their diet and consider a humidifier in colder months. If dandruff is excessive with itching, a fungal or bacterial infection might be at play.

Aside from a nutrient-dense diet,try these natural boosters:

  • Egg yolks (rich in biotin)
  • Sardines in water (high in Omega-3s)
  • Goat’s milk or kefir (supports gut health, which affects skin)
  • Coconut oil rubs (a small amount massaged into the coat can improve shine)

Thinning fur in specific areas can signal hormonal imbalances, especially hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. Check for other signs like weight gain, lethargy, or excessive thirst. If it’s seasonal, winter dryness might be the culprit—boosting omega-rich foods and regular gentle brushing can help stimulate hair regrowth.

Yes! Puppies require higher fat content, DHA, and protein for rapid coat development. As they transition to adult food, ensure their diet still includes:

  • Essential fatty acids (for moisture retention)
  • Collagen & glucosamine (for skin elasticity)
  • Whole-food antioxidants (to combat environmental skin stressors)

While coat greying is genetic, oxidative stress can accelerate it. Adding antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, turmeric, and green-lipped mussels can slow premature greying and support cell repair.

Curious About Skin & Coat?