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Role of nutrition in skin health<\/h3>\n
Nothing affects the condition of your canine companion\u2019s skin and coat more than their food. Many nutrients are needed to keep your dog\u2019s skin and coat healthy, which also means one or more key nutrients can positively or negatively affect skin. Foods rich in protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and zinc play an essential role in caring for your dog\u2019s skin and coat. If you\u2019re feeding a quality dog food, nutrient deficiencies are relatively uncommon. But when your dog has sensitive skin or other skin health concerns, it\u2019s even more important to feed the right food.<\/p>\n
How can the right food help?<\/h3>\n
While some skin issues (such as fleas or mites) can be cleared up quickly, others (such as environmental or food allergies) will need lifelong management. The good news is that even if the cause of your dog\u2019s skin condition isn\u2019t related to their food, they may still benefit from eating a high-quality food formulated especially for sensitive skin, such as Diamond CARE Sensitive Skin Formula<\/a> for Adult Dogs.<\/p>\n When looking for a sensitive skin formula, you\u2019ll want to look for a food that provides these important skin-protecting nutrients:<\/p>\n High-quality protein provides the amino acid building blocks needed for natural cell production and repair. If food doesn\u2019t provide enough protein, then the coat may become dry, dull and brittle, and there may be patches of hair loss. Feeding a food containing hydrolyzed protein (protein that has been broken into small pieces) or unique protein sources, such as bison or venison, can help decrease reactions in dogs with food allergy or intolerances to more common ingredients.<\/p>\n A dog food containing high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, such as those naturally found in fish oil, can help protect your pet\u2019s skin from dryness. At the cell level, the key omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) can help fight inflammation.<\/p>\n Vitamins E and A along with other antioxidants such as the minerals zinc and selenium are important to your pet\u2019s healthy immune system. As part of a complete and balanced dog food, this antioxidant combination can help protect your dog\u2019s body from damage caused by free radicals. They can also make a healthy difference on the outside by supporting healthy skin and a shiny coat.<\/p>\n When it comes to skin conditions, early intervention is often the key to providing relief. Contact your veterinarian at the first sign of trouble so your best friend can be comfortable.<\/p>\nHigh-quality protein<\/em><\/h3>\n
Essential fatty acids<\/em><\/h3>\n
Antioxidants<\/em><\/h3>\n