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6 Best Dog Food for Dry Skin (2024)

Written by: Justin Palmer
Justin Palmer is a Certified Pet Food Nutrition Specialist and co-founder of iHeartDogs.com. Inspired by his rescued husky, Splash, he dedicated himself to learning about extending both the length and quality of her life. Splash lived and thrived until 18 years old, and now Justin is on a mission to share what he learned with other dog owners.Read more
| Published on March 13, 2024

Dry skin can be a common issue for dogs, and it’s important to address it to keep your furry friend healthy and comfortable. One way to combat dry skin is through their diet. By choosing the right dog food, you can help keep their skin moisturized and healthy.

When looking for the best dog food for dry skin, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to look for a food that is high in healthy fats. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. Additionally, you want to avoid foods that contain common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy, as these can contribute to dry, itchy skin.

There are a variety of dog foods on the market that claim to help with dry skin, but not all are created equal. Some contain higher levels of fatty acids, while others may have added vitamins and minerals to promote skin health. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best dog foods for dry skin and what to look for when making your purchase.

Best Dog Food for Dry Skin

We know that dry skin can be a frustrating issue for dogs. It can cause itching, flaking, and discomfort, and if left untreated, it can lead to more serious skin problems. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the best dog foods for dry skin to help your furry friend feel their best. Our top picks are formulated with high-quality ingredients that promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Here are our top recommendations for the best dog food for dry skin.

#1 – Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food, 13 oz (SOL-FDLSSC-13) Lamb & Salmon (Skin & Coat Boost) 13 Ounce (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food topper that can help with your furry friend’s dry skin, then Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food might be worth considering.

Pros

  • This meal mixer recipe promotes healthy digestion and intestinal health, thanks to all-natural, active ingredients like pumpkin and chicory root.
  • The added taurine helps with indigestion relief for dogs and overall gut health.
  • The recipe includes responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources for protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve.

Cons

  • This dog food topper can be quite pricey compared to other options.
  • Some customers have reported that their dogs did not enjoy the taste of this product.
  • The packaging may be difficult to open or reseal.

Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food is an all-in-one supplement and feeding solution that can help with dry skin, as well as other issues like digestive, hip and joint, immune system, and heart problems. This dog food topper is made in the USA with grass-fed beef and includes no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor, or preservatives.

If you’re looking for a way to supplement your dog’s diet with added nutrition, reward them for good behavior, or entice a picky eater, then this freeze-dried raw dog food topper might be worth trying. However, keep in mind that it can be quite pricey compared to other options, and some dogs may not enjoy the taste. Additionally, the packaging may be difficult to open or reseal, so be prepared for that. Overall, we recommend giving Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food a try if you’re looking for a dog food topper to help with dry skin and other health issues.

#2 – GO! SOLUTIONS Skin + Coat Care – Dry Dog Food, 22 lb – Turkey Recipe with Grains for All Life Stages – Complete + Balanced Nutrition for Dogs

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help with dry skin and coat issues, GO! SOLUTIONS Skin + Coat Care might be a good option for you. This premium dog food is made with high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected and balanced to provide simple solutions to support pets with all kinds of issues, including skin and coat health. Here are the pros and cons of this product:

Pros

  • Supports healthy skin and a shiny coat: This dog food is rich in omega fatty acids from salmon oil to support healthy, hydrated skin and a shiny coat, and help keep your dog looking and feeling their best.
  • Complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all ages: Whether you have a large or small dog, a puppy or a senior, this dog food is made to provide the nutrients your dog needs with zero by-product meals, artificial preservatives, chicken, potatoes, legumes, wheat, corn, or soy.
  • Made with natural ingredients: This dog food is made with premium-quality de-boned turkey as the first ingredient, antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies to support immune system health, and whole grains for an excellent source of energy.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste: As with any dog food, some dogs may not like the taste of GO! SOLUTIONS Skin + Coat Care.
  • May not work for all dogs: While this dog food is designed to support skin and coat health, it may not work for all dogs with dry skin issues.
  • More expensive than some other dog foods: This dog food is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market.

Overall, GO! SOLUTIONS Skin + Coat Care is a good option for dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food that can help with dry skin and coat issues. This dog food is made with natural ingredients and is designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all ages. However, it may not work for all dogs, and it is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market.

#3 – ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food for dogs with dry skin.

Pros

  • Contains 90% animal ingredients, including fresh or raw poultry and fish for a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Tailored to provide maximum nutrition for dogs by helping support digestive health, immune support, and healthy skin & coat.
  • Freeze-dried dog food coating offers a burst of raw flavor your dog instinctively craves.

Cons

  • Has a strong fish smell.
  • Heavy bag weight.
  • Expensive compared to other dog food brands.

ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is a high protein dog food kibble that provides maximum nutrition for dogs by supporting digestive health, immune support, and healthy skin & coat. This dry dog food contains 90% animal ingredients, including ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients like poultry and organs to provide your dog with the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey. The first five ingredients are fresh or raw poultry and fish to provide your dog with a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals as well as grains sourced from non-GMO crops.

The freeze-dried dog food coating offers a burst of raw flavor your dog instinctively craves. However, it has a strong fish smell and is quite heavy compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, it is more expensive compared to other brands.

Overall, ORIJEN AMAZING GRAINS Original Dry Dog Food is a great choice for dogs with dry skin due to its high protein and nutrient-rich ingredients.

#4 – Earth Animal Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food | From the Sea Recipe Premium Natural Dog Food | All Breeds & Ages | Made in The USA | 2 Pound Bag From the Sea 2 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a premium dog food that’s easy to digest and perfect for sensitive stomachs, then Earth Animal Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • Made with premium protein from wild-caught catfish and clams, sustainably sourced sardines, and real organ and muscle meat.
  • Enriched with organic sprouted seeds to nurture your dog’s gut health.
  • Gently air-dried to retain high nutrient density and create a jerky-like texture that dogs love.

Cons

  • Expensive compared to some other dog food options.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture.
  • Difficult for small breeds to chew.

Earth Animal Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their furry friends the best possible nutrition. This dog food is made with high-quality ingredients, including real organ and muscle meat, ancient grains, fruits and vegetables, and vitamins and minerals. It’s also enriched with organic sprouted seeds to promote healthy digestion.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it’s gently air-dried, which helps to retain the natural taste and nutrients of the seafood ingredients. This also creates a jerky-like texture that dogs love and makes it a great option for picky eaters.

However, it’s important to note that Earth Animal Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food is more expensive than some other dog food options. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture, and it can be difficult for small breeds to chew.

Overall, if you’re looking for a premium dog food that’s made with high-quality ingredients and designed to promote healthy digestion, then Earth Animal Wisdom Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

#5 – Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon 4-lb 4 Pounds (Pack of 1)

If you want to keep your dog’s skin healthy and shiny, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality salmon and wholesome ingredients to care for your dog’s sensitive skin naturally
  • Contains omega 3 & 6 fatty acids clinically proven to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat
  • Natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians, with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other dog foods
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • Not suitable for dogs with fish allergies

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits and has no corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, which may cause sensitivities.

The omega fatty acids in this dog food are clinically proven to support skin care, making it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive skin. It is formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists, so you can be sure your dog is getting the best possible nutrition.

While it is more expensive than some other dog foods, the quality of the ingredients and the proven benefits to your dog’s skin and coat make it worth the investment. However, some dogs may not like the taste, and it is not suitable for dogs with fish allergies.

Overall, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat Natural Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive skin. It is made with high-quality ingredients and is clinically proven to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.

#6 – IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food, 13.5 lb. Bag Salmon 13.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with dry skin. It is formulated with the IAMS SMARTCOAT blend, which includes an Omega 6:3 fatty acid ratio that is clinically proven to support skin and coat health.

Pros

  • The IAMS Smartcoat blend with Omega fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin E promotes skin health and coat luster.
  • The crunchy kibble scrubs your dog’s teeth to help reduce plaque buildup that can lead to bad breath.
  • The guaranteed live probiotics and natural fiber and prebiotics promote healthy digestion.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste.
  • The kibble may be too large for small dogs.
  • The price point may be too high for some pet owners.

IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes skin and coat health. This chicken-first recipe is formulated without fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It contains essential nutrients and antioxidants to support your dog’s whole-body health. Veterinarians recommend IAMS.

The 13.5 lb. bag is perfect for pet owners who want to try the product without committing to a larger size. The kibble is made with real, farm-raised chicken and whole grains, which builds strong muscles with quality protein sourced from real chicken. Trace amounts may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.

Overall, we believe that IAMS Advanced Health Skin & Coat Chicken and Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great investment for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality dog food that promotes skin and coat health.

Dog Food for Dry Skin Buying Guide

When choosing the best dog food for dry skin, there are several factors to consider to ensure that your dog gets the proper nutrition they need. Here are some features to look for when selecting a dog food for dry skin:

Protein Content

Protein is essential for your dog’s skin health. When selecting a dog food, look for a product that contains high-quality proteins such as chicken, beef, or fish. These proteins will help to repair and maintain your dog’s skin and coat.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your dog’s skin health. They help to reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat condition. Look for dog foods that contain fish oil or flaxseed, which are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Moisture Content

Dry skin can be caused by dehydration, so it’s important to ensure that your dog is getting enough moisture in their diet. Look for dog foods that contain moisture-rich ingredients such as fruits and vegetables.

Grain-Free

Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to grains, which can cause dry skin. Look for grain-free dog foods that are made with alternative sources of carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Limited Ingredients

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or skin, look for dog foods that have a limited number of ingredients. This can help to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritation.

By considering these features when selecting a dog food for dry skin, you can ensure that your dog is getting the proper nutrition they need to maintain healthy skin and coat.

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