Dog Dandruff: Causes, What Helps and When to See a Vet

What it usually means

Skin renews itself constantly, and a few flakes now and then are normal. Dry indoor heating in winter, low humidity, and baths that are too frequent or use human or scented shampoos can strip the skin's natural oils and leave it dry and flaky. Some dogs also flake more when they are shedding heavily or when they are not brushed and groomed often enough to spread oils through the coat.

When flaking is heavy or persistent, it is usually a sign of something underneath. Allergies to fleas, food, or things in the environment are common causes, as are bacterial and yeast skin infections. Vets call excessive scaling seborrhea; it can be dry and flaky, oily and smelly, or both, and in most dogs it is caused by another condition rather than being the problem itself.

Other causes to know about

Mites and lice can cause flaky skin. Cheyletiella mites are nicknamed walking dandruff, because the flakes along the back can appear to move. They are very contagious, especially in shelters and multi-pet homes, and they can cause itchy red bumps on people too. Demodex and sarcoptic mange mites can also cause scaling, usually with hair loss.

Hormone conditions, especially low thyroid function and Cushing's disease, can cause dry, flaky skin and a thin coat, often in middle-aged or older dogs. A poor or unbalanced diet can show up in the skin too. Some breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, and Basset Hounds, are prone to inherited forms of seborrhea.

When to call your vet today

Book a vet visit if the flaking is heavy, keeps coming back, or comes with itching, redness, scabs, bumps, a greasy coat, a strong smell, or hair loss. Also book if your dog is a new arrival from a shelter or breeder and has flaky skin, or if people in the home have developed itchy spots, which can happen with some mites.

Call promptly, too, if flaky skin comes with weight gain, low energy, more thirst than usual, or a pot-bellied look, since these can point to a hormone problem. Finding and treating the underlying cause is what clears the flakes for good.

When it's an emergency

Dandruff is not an emergency on its own. Seek urgent care if your dog has widespread raw, oozing, or bleeding skin, if large patches of skin are sloughing, or if there is swelling of the face, hives, vomiting, or breathing trouble after contact with a new product, which could be an allergic reaction.

Also call your vet the same day if skin problems come with fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite. If your dog may have licked a toxic product from their coat, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661; a fee may apply.

What you can safely do at home

Brush your dog several times a week to lift dead skin and spread natural oils. Bathe only as often as needed, with a gentle shampoo made for dogs, and rinse thoroughly, because leftover shampoo irritates the skin. A humidifier in the room where your dog sleeps helps in dry winter months.

Keep your dog on year-round flea prevention and feed a complete, balanced diet. Do not use human dandruff shampoos, which can be too harsh or contain ingredients that are unsafe for dogs, and avoid oils and home remedies on the skin unless your vet suggests them. Your vet can recommend a medicated shampoo if one is needed.

What the vet will likely check

Your vet will examine the skin and coat and may comb the coat or use tape on the skin to look for mites, along with skin scrapings and samples to check for bacteria and yeast under a microscope. If the scaling is widespread or unusual, they may suggest blood tests for thyroid or adrenal problems.

Treatment depends on the cause and may include medicated baths, treatment for mites or infection, allergy management, or a diet change. Dogs with inherited seborrhea often need ongoing skin care, and all pets in the household may need treating if mites are found.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.