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The skin acts as a protective outer barrier against potentially harmful environmental factors and prevents water loss to maintain hydration. This barrier is made possible through the action of lipids (fats), which seal together the layers of skin cells.
These lipids come from essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids absorbed from the diet, which are an important contributing factor to a healthy skin and coat. These fatty acids also make up the lipid in sebum, the oily substance that is secreted from the skin onto hair shafts, and helps give the coat a shiny or glossy appearance.
Minerals and vitamins play a key role in a healthy skin and coat. Zinc is a mineral widely distributed throughout the body and is an integral part of many enzymes involved in the metabolism of fat, protein and carbohydrates. It is essential for the biosynthesis of fatty acids and plays a role in the body’s immune system, both of which are important to a healthy coat in dogs.
B vitamins, such as biotin (vitamin B7), niacin (vitamin B3), riboflavin (vitamin B2), pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), are also important nutrients for skin and coat health. Many of the B vitamins help with the metabolism and synthesis of glucose, fatty acids and amino acids that are important in the structure of skin and hair cells.
Research from Texas1 and the United Kingdom2 has shown that high levels of fatty acids, zinc and B vitamins can promote a healthy skin and coat in dogs better than when only the required nutrient levels are met.
The studies involved measurements of coat shine, dander, softness, overall coat feel and transepidermal water loss. A reduction in water loss through the skin barrier means that the skin will stay hydrated and supple and can provide an effective barrier to defend against environmental factors.
Linoleic acid and zinc were proven to improve coat shine, reduce water loss across the skin barrier and reduce dandruff. Similar studies have been performed using targeted levels of B vitamins. In addition to reduced water loss across the skin and reduced dandruff, B vitamins increased coat softness.
Added prebiotics help support digestive health.
Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed and fish oil help maintain skin and coat health.
Contains high-quality protein as well as L-carnitine to help metabolize fat.
Foods with a limited protein source may be beneficial for pets with food sensitivities. A limited protein source pet food uses a minimal amount of protein sources.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil and canola oil help maintain skin and coat health.
Added glucosamine and chondroitin help maintain joint health.
An optimal combination of natural ingredients that provide an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals. Ingredients such as white fish and eggs provide high quality protein and are blended with high-quality natural ingredients such as brown rice, barley and sweet potatoes to provide the right balance of carbohydrates.
Contains 12% fewer calories than our Vetdiet® all breeds adult dog food – chicken and rice formula. High-quality protein from deboned chicken as well as added natural fiber from ingredients such as peas and whole barley contributes to a feeling of fullness and help achieve a healthy weight.
The size of the kibble encourages chewing to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Sodium hexametaphosphate also helps control tartar accumulation.
An optimal combination of ingredients that provide an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Contains 9% fewer calories than our Vetdiet® adult large breed dog food. High-quality protein from deboned chicken and added natural fiber from ingredients such as peas and whole barley contribute to a feeling of fullness and help achieve a healthy weight.