Best Dog Food for Skin Health: 9 Top Brands for Healthy Coats (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

Is your furry friend constantly scratching and nibbling at their skin? Itchy skin and a dull coat could be a sign of allergies or nutritional deficiencies. The good news is that the right diet can work wonders for your dog’s skin health.

We’ve rounded up the best dog food for skin health, so you can give your four-legged friend the relief they need. From premium picks to budget-friendly options, these top brands offer nutrient-rich formulas packed with omega fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and more.

Top 9 Best Dog Foods for Skin Health

When it comes to nourishing your dog’s skin and coat, choosing the right food is key. We’ve narrowed down the top nine dog foods that promote healthy skin, so you can make informed decisions for your furry friend’s nutrition.

Diamond Naturals Salmon Dog Food, GO SOLUTIONS Lamb Dog Food, AvoDerm Puppy Dry Dog Food, Acana Lamb Pumpkin Dog Food, Hills Science Diet Sensitive Stomach Skin Dog Food, Royal Canin Small Sensitive skin Dog Food, Blue Buffalo Perfect Skin Coat Dog Food, Nutro Natural Choice Adult Dog Food, and Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin Stomach Dog Food are our top picks for supporting your dog’s skin health.

1. Diamond Naturals Salmon Dog Food

View On Amazon
Diamond Naturals Salmon Dog Food is a popular choice for dog owners seeking to improve their furry friends’ skin and coat health. Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, this food stands out for its wild-caught salmon, which serves as the primary protein source. This formula is designed for dogs of all life stages, from playful puppies to wise seniors. It includes superfoods and fatty acids that promote a healthy skin and coat, and probiotics support digestive health. You won’t find any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in this food, which is available in convenient 30-pound bags.

User reviews for Diamond Naturals Salmon Dog Food are generally positive, with many reporting improved skin and coat health and reduced vomiting. Some users note that their dogs have increased energy levels after making the switch. However, a few mention the inconvenience of kibble dust, which may be due to shipping. Overall, this food is a great option for those seeking a grain-free, salmon-based diet for their dogs, offering quality and value.

Best For: Dog owners seeking a grain-free, salmon-based diet for their dogs with improved skin and coat health.

2. GO SOLUTIONS Lamb Dog Food

View On Amazon
GO SOLUTIONS Lamb Dog Food is formulated by pet nutrition experts to support healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs of all ages.

It’s packed with premium-quality lamb, antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, and whole grains.

This food is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as it contains probiotics and prebiotic fiber from dried chicory root, as well as coconut oil for healthy digestion.

You can find GO SOLUTIONS Lamb Dog Food in various bag sizes, ranging from 3.5 to 25 pounds, making it convenient to choose the right amount for your furry friend.

Best For: Dogs of all ages, especially those with sensitive stomachs and those looking for a healthy skin and coat solution.

3. AvoDerm Puppy Dry Dog Food

View On Amazon
If you’re looking for a dog food that supports your puppy’s skin health, AvoDerm Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great option. This food is specifically designed for growing puppies and includes oatmeal, flaxseed, and fish oil to support healthy skin and coat development. It’s also made with DHA for brain and vision development, which is really important for your puppy’s overall health.

The key ingredient that sets AvoDerm apart is avocado. Avocados are rich in omega fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. But don’t worry, the avocados in this food are persin-free, so they’re safe for your furry friend to enjoy without any concerns.

AvoDerm Puppy Dry Dog Food is also an excellent choice if your puppy struggles with skin allergies and digestive issues. The kibble size is smaller, making it perfect for small dogs, and the food is easy to digest, thanks to its nutrient-rich blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Best For: Growing puppies, especially those with skin allergies or digestive issues.

4. Acana Lamb Pumpkin Dog Food

View On Amazon
If you’re seeking a high-protein, limited-ingredient dog food, Acana Lamb Pumpkin Dog Food is a great option.

This kibble is crafted with 60% high-quality animal ingredients, including deboned lamb and lamb meal, and 40% wholesome grains, fruits, vegetables, and nutrients.

It’s also gluten-free and chicken-free, making it ideal for dogs with allergies.

The recipe is carefully balanced to help your dog maintain a healthy weight and boost their immune system.

Plus, the fiber-rich grain blend and probiotics provide digestive support.

While this premium dog food may be pricier than other options, it’s made in the USA with quality ingredients sourced from around the world.

Best For: Dogs needing a high-protein, limited-ingredient diet, especially those with chicken allergies.

5. Hills Science Diet Sensitive Stomach Skin Dog Food

View On Amazon
If your dog has a sensitive stomach and skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dog Food is a great option.

It’s formulated with precisely balanced and highly digestible ingredients, including prebiotic fiber to support a healthy gut microbiome.

The food also contains Omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which work together to promote a shiny, healthy coat.

This brand is the number one veterinarian-recommended option and is made in the USA with global ingredients.

You can find it in various sizes and flavors, so it’s easy to incorporate into your dog’s diet.

Best For: Dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin.

6. Royal Canin Small Sensitive Skin Dog Food

View On Amazon
Royal Canin Small Sensitive Skin Dog Food is formulated for small dogs with sensitive skin.

It’s designed for adult dogs 10 months and older, weighing up to 22 lbs.

This food contains omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to nourish dry skin and promote a healthy coat.

In fact, 91% of owners saw improvements in their dog’s skin after exclusively feeding this food for two months.

You can also pair it with Royal Canin Sensitive Skin Care Wet Dog Food for added variety.

Keep in mind that some customers mention the price is higher than other brands.

Best For: Small dogs (10 months and older) up to 22 lbs with sensitive skin.

7. Blue Buffalo Perfect Skin Coat Dog Food

View On Amazon
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Dog Food is a great option for supporting your dog’s skin and coat health.

It features real, high-quality salmon as the first ingredient, providing essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

This formula also includes exclusive LifeSource Bits, which are rich in antioxidants to support your dog’s immune system.

You can feel good about feeding your furry friend this food, as it’s made without any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.

Keep in mind that this option may not be suitable for dogs with salmon allergies.

Best For: Dogs with skin and coat issues who need a high-quality salmon-based diet.

8. Nutro Natural Choice Adult Dog Food

View On Amazon
Nutro Natural Choice Adult Dog Food is another excellent option for supporting your dog’s skin health. This food is crafted with real chicken as the first ingredient, providing a rich source of protein for your pup’s skin and coat. It’s also designed to support healthy digestion and immunity, as well as promote strong bones and muscles.

One of the key benefits of this food is that it’s made without chicken by-product meal, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. This helps reduce the risk of common allergens and makes sure your dog is getting a high-quality meal.

Nutro Natural Choice is crafted in the USA with ingredients sourced from around the world, so you can be confident that your dog is getting the best. It comes in a convenient 30-lb bag, ensuring you always have nutritious food on hand for your furry friend.

Best For: Nutro Natural Choice Adult Dog Food is best for owners looking for a high-quality, protein-rich food made with real chicken for adult dogs.

9. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin Stomach Dog Food

View On Amazon
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food is a top choice for dogs with skin issues.

The formula includes salmon as the first ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein.

It’s also rich in omega-6 fatty acids from sunflower oil, promoting a healthy skin and coat.

Other key ingredients include oatmeal, rice, barley, and probiotics for digestive health.

It’s a dry kibble food with a salmon and rice flavor, and it’s corn, wheat, and soy-free.

While it may be pricier than some brands, Purina offers a guarantee if you’re not satisfied.

Best For: Dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs, particularly those with allergies to corn, wheat, and soy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Food for Skin

When choosing dog food for skin health, it’s important to think about the ingredients that will support both their coat and skin. You’ll want to look for foods that include ingredients that promote a healthy coat, like omega-3 fatty acids, and also keep an eye out for common allergens that could irritate your dog’s skin, like corn, wheat, and soy.

Coat Health Support

When choosing dog food to support your dog’s coat health, you need to think about factors like their breed, age, and activity level.

Different dog breeds have varying coat types and skin sensitivities, so it’s important to choose a diet that fits their unique needs.

Skin issues and food allergies can impact coat health, so be aware of any specific sensitivities your dog might have.

Essential fatty acids, like omega-3s, are important for maintaining a healthy coat, so make sure their diet includes these supplements.

Benefits for Skin

For your dog’s skin health, certain foods can make a big difference.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and trout, help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Oats are another great source of omega-3s and can calm irritated skin.

Vitamins like biotin, zinc, and vitamin E are also important for keeping your dog’s skin healthy and vibrant.

These nutrients support hair growth, wound healing, and protection against skin cell damage.

Common Allergens to Avoid

When choosing dog food for your furry friend, it’s important to be mindful of common allergens that could cause skin issues. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Corn, wheat, and soy are common allergens in dog food that can trigger skin reactions and digestive problems.
• Artificial additives, including colors, flavors, and preservatives, should be avoided as they may irritate your dog’s skin and cause other health issues.
• Opt for limited-ingredient diets or hypoallergenic options to minimize potential allergens.
• If you suspect your dog has specific allergies, consider allergy testing to identify the exact triggers and choose a dog food formula that avoids those ingredients.

Key Ingredients for Healthy Skin and Coats

For healthy skin and fur on your pup, some ingredients really stand out. High-quality protein sources like salmon, chicken, or turkey provide essential amino acids for skin and coat health. Additionally, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are key players, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy, shiny coat.

High-Quality Protein Sources

When it comes to protein, quality and variety are key. Opt for dog foods with real meat-based proteins like chicken, beef, or eggs. These provide essential amino acids that promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Protein Source	Benefits
Chicken	Lean protein with essential amino acids
Beef	Rich in zinc for a healthy immune system
Eggs	Good source of biotin, protein, and healthy fats

Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids

For healthy skin and a shiny coat for your furry friend, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are key players. These essential nutrients provide a range of benefits for your dog’s overall health, but they’re especially important for maintaining a healthy coat and skin.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and trout, are anti-inflammatory powerhouses. They help reduce skin irritation and promote a healthy, glossy coat. On the other hand, omega-6 fatty acids contribute to skin and coat health, and you can find them in whole grains like oats.

Together, these fatty acids work in harmony to keep your dog’s skin and coat in tip-top shape.

Zinc, Vitamin E, and Antioxidants

Zinc, vitamin E, and antioxidants are key players in supporting your dog’s skin health. Zinc helps maintain healthy skin and aids in wound healing, while vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from damage. These nutrients work together to keep your dog’s skin resilient and strong.

When choosing dog food brands, look for those that include these essential nutrients. Talk to your vet to make sure you’re providing the best nutrition for your dog’s skin health and overall well-being.

Natural Prebiotics and Probiotics

Natural prebiotics and probiotics are key to supporting your dog’s gut health and overall well-being.

Prebiotics act as food for the good bacteria in your dog’s gut, promoting a healthy microbiome.

Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to aid digestion and nutrient absorption.

Together, they improve your dog’s skin and coat health from the inside out.

Look for dog foods with these natural ingredients for a healthy gut microbiome and overall health.

Addressing Dietary Sensitivities and Allergies

If your dog has dietary sensitivities or allergies, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best dog food for their skin health. Opt for limited ingredient diets with specific protein sources for easier digestion, and consider grain-free options if grains are a trigger for your pup.

Limited Ingredient Diets

If your dog has food sensitivities or allergies, limited ingredient diets can be a game-changer. Here’s why:

1. Ingredient Restrictions: Limited ingredient diets focus on a restricted number of carefully selected ingredients, minimizing the risk of triggering dietary concerns.
2. Food Sensitivities: By reducing the variety of ingredients, you lower the chances of exposing your dog to potential allergens or irritants, addressing any food sensitivities they may have.
3. Allergy Concerns: These diets are especially beneficial if your dog has specific allergies. For instance, if they’re allergic to chicken, a limited ingredient diet with a single protein source, like lamb, can be a perfect solution.
4. Easier Digestion: Limited ingredient diets are designed for simpler digestion, so your dog can efficiently absorb essential nutrients, promoting overall health and well-being.

Grain-Free Options

If your dog has grain sensitivities or allergies, grain-free dog food might be the best option. These formulas often cater to common dietary issues and promote healthy digestion.

Grain-Free Dog Food	Benefits
Skin Issues	Addresses grain sensitivities and allergies
Digestion	Promotes healthy digestion and gut health
Overall Health	May help reduce skin irritation and inflammation

Probiotics and Prebiotic Fibers

If your dog has dietary sensitivities or allergies, it’s important to address these issues through their diet.

Probiotics and prebiotic fibers can be a game-changer for your dog’s gut health and overall well-being.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that support a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and boosting the immune system.

Prebiotic fibers act as food for probiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and maintaining a balanced gut environment.

Together, they help your dog’s digestive system work well, which can have a positive impact on skin and coat health.

Digestive Health Considerations

When talking about your dog’s digestive health, there are a few key things to keep in mind. To start, choose dog foods that contain prebiotic fibers, which help create a balanced gut microbiome.

Prebiotic Fibers for Gut Health

Prebiotic fibers are key to supporting your dog’s gut health. These fibers act as food for the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. A well-balanced gut microbiome is essential for overall health, including skin and coat health.

When choosing dog food, look for ingredients like natural prebiotics and probiotics. These support gut health and overall well-being, boosting your dog’s immune system and keeping their skin and coat vibrant.

Easily Digestible Ingredients

Easily digestible ingredients are key to supporting your dog’s digestive health and overall well-being. Opt for gentle options like oatmeal, grains, vegetables, and sweet potatoes, which are easy on sensitive stomachs. Additionally, healthy fats from coconut oil and flaxseed oil can aid digestion and promote a shiny coat.

Avoiding Common Allergens

When it comes to your furry friend’s diet, it’s important to be mindful of common allergens that could wreak havoc on their skin and stomach.

Ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy are often cited as common allergens in dog food, so opting for grain-free or limited-ingredient dog food for skin allergies might be a good idea.

If your pup has a sensitive stomach or skin issues, it’s worth considering a hypoallergenic option.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog’s specific needs and to get personalized recommendations for dog food for allergies and sensitive stomach issues.

Vitamins Essential for a Healthy Coat

When it comes to vitamins and your dog’s coat health, there are a few key players to keep in mind.

Biotin, for example, promotes healthy hair growth and reduces shedding.

While zinc supports skin health and wound healing.

Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting your dog’s skin cells from damage.

Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation to promote a healthy coat.

And finally, vitamin A supports the growth and development of healthy skin cells.

Biotin for Hair Growth

If you’re looking to give your dog’s coat a boost and keep it healthy, biotin is a key player.

This B-complex vitamin, also known as vitamin B7, is a vital nutrient that keeps your dog’s skin, hair, and nails in tip-top shape.

By adding biotin-rich foods to your dog’s diet, you’ll be giving their hair the boost it needs to grow strong and shiny.

Think of biotin as the secret weapon in your dog’s coat care arsenal.

Zinc for Skin Health

Zinc is essential for your dog’s skin health. A deficiency can cause hair loss and skin issues, such as zinc-responsive dermatosis. Ensuring your dog’s diet includes adequate zinc promotes a healthy coat and skin, and can even increase their lifespan.

Zinc is a cofactor of the enzyme delta-6 desaturase, which is involved in forming a functional epidermis. It also plays a role in reducing oxidative stress and protecting against cell damage.

Vitamin E for Antioxidant Support

Vitamin E is a key player in your dog’s wellness, offering a range of benefits for their skin and overall health. Here’s why you should make sure their diet includes this essential vitamin:

• Antioxidant Power: Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting your dog’s skin cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Skin Protection: It helps maintain the health of skin cell membranes, keeping your pup’s skin strong and resilient.
• Healthy Aging: With its antioxidant properties, vitamin E supports your dog’s overall health as they age, promoting wellness from the inside out.
• Cell Repair: This vitamin aids in cell repair, helping your dog’s body recover from any skin damage and maintain healthy skin tissue.
• Pet Nutrition: Vitamin E is often added to dog food to make sure your furry friend gets enough of this essential nutrient, supporting their skin health and overall wellness.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Inflammation

Omega-3 fatty acids are a key player in reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy coat for your dog. They’re a type of fat with multiple health benefits, including supporting your dog’s skin and coat.

Here’s a table highlighting some key advantages of omega-3s:

Omega-3 Benefits	Fish Oil Uses	Salmon Oil Benefits
Reduce inflammation	Support healthy skin and coat	Promote a shiny, healthy coat
Promote healthy skin and coat	Provide essential fatty acids	Support skin and eye health

When choosing the best dog food for skin health, look for high-quality options that include omega-3 fatty acids. These can come from fish oil or salmon oil, both packed with nutrients that contribute to a healthy coat and overall well-being for your furry friend.

Vitamin a for Skin Cell Growth

Vitamin A is another important nutrient for your dog’s skin health.

It supports the growth and development of healthy skin cells, ensuring a vibrant and shiny coat.

When choosing a dog food, look for options that include this important nutrient to promote your furry friend’s skin health and overall well-being.

Prioritize high-quality, complete, and nutritious dry dog food options that are rich in Vitamin A, along with other essential vitamins and minerals, to give your dog the best chance at a healthy and lustrous coat.

Decoding the Ingredient List

When decoding the ingredient list on dog food, look for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. These provide essential nutrients and support overall health. Avoid artificial additives, including colors, flavors, and preservatives, as they may be harmful to your dog’s health.

Whole Grains, Fruits, and Vegetables

When talking about your furry friend’s food, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are important parts of a healthy, balanced meal. Here’s why:

1. Whole Grains: Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal, which give your pup sustained energy and essential B vitamins. Oats, in particular, have omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are good for their skin.
2. Fruits: Fruits are nature’s candy, full of vitamins and minerals that help keep your dog healthy.
3. Vegetables: Veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, pumpkin, and spinach are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help with their gut health and reduce allergies.
4. Ingredient Quality: Always pick dog food with high-quality ingredients. Look for food that gives your pup complete and balanced nutrition, including whole grains, fruits, and veggies.

Avoiding Artificial Additives

When choosing dog food, it’s important to be aware of artificial additives. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These additives may have negative health impacts. Instead, opt for healthy alternatives with high-quality, nutritious, and safe ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)