You probably don't enjoy feeling like you've been slimed after petting your pooch. Don't despair; her oily fur -- and any accompanying stink -- is manageable. Sure, some dogs have naturally oily coats, but excessive oiliness is often symptomatic of seborrhea or another condition. Begin your battle against grease with a vet visit.
Step 1
Consult your veterinarian before attempting to get rid of your furry friend's oily coat on your own. He should evaluate your dog for seborrhea, thyroid problems and other possible health problems causing the excessive greasiness. Your vet will recommend an appropriate course of action.
Step 2
Use a specialty pooch shampoo that's designed to manage seborrhea or oily fur. Go with a product containing active ingredients suggested by your vet. A shampoo made with tar or benzoyl peroxide may be your best bet.
Step 3
Apply the shampoo as directed by your vet and according to the label instructions. Most products for seborrhea and other coat conditions are safe enough for daily use, but are more commonly used every few days to once per week. Pay attention to all bathing instructions, including whether you should lather or repeat after rinsing.
Step 4
Feed your oily doggie food high in omega-3 fatty acids or a supplement if your vet gives you the go-ahead. These fatty acids promote skin and coat health, and they also help with other symptoms typically seen with seborrhea, including skin inflammation and associated itching. Also ask your vet about increasing your pooch's vitamin E intake and providing her with a multivitamin and mineral supplement.
References
Tips
- If your dog also has scaling, dry skin, a bad odor on her coat or itchiness, it may indicate seborrhea. Your vet will advise you on managing these other symptoms. Seborrhea shampoos that help with oiliness generally help with these accompanying problems, too.
Writer Bio
Eric Mohrman has been a freelance writer since 2007, focusing on travel, food and lifestyle stories. His creative writing is also widely published. He lives in Orlando, Florida.