My dog sheds and smells. What food helps pancreatitis and skin?

Question

I have a 120lb Anatolian Shepard that sheds terribly and he stinks all the time; even after he has been bathed. Someone told me to change his dog food. However, before making any changes I wanted to talk to someone with the knowledge to possibly assist with both issues. My dog has Pacreyitus (smelling?) so I currently have him on New Balance, Grain Free dry dog food. Pet's info: Dog | Anatolian Shepherd | Male | neutered | 9 years and 4 months old | 120 lbs

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thank you for asking PetCoach! What I am understanding from your question is the following: Harley sheds a lot. Harley is stinky even after a bath. Harley has a history of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) you currently feed New Balance Grain free, because of his history of pancreatitis With a history of pancreatitis, a low fat food is generally the best choice. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes that are needed for proper metabolism. The more fat in the diet, the harder the pancreas has to work to make enzymes that break down the fat. That is why very fatty foods--such as bacon grease or fatty scraps-- can cause severe pancreatitis. Often, dogs that have a history of pancreatitis are put on low fat food diets to help reduce the likelihood of pancreatitis becoming problematic again. Grain free food has not been shown to have any benefit in regards to pancreatitis. As a side note, grain free diets HAVE been shown to have a major correlation with an increase in heart disease. That's a subject for another day though. ;) Your concern about him stinking all the time-- there are a few possible causes. How is his mouth? Is it possible that the odor is due to dental disease? Or possibly ear infections which can also have an odor? Or, he may have a fungal or bacterial infection in his skin that is the cause. Regardless, if there is a persistent odor, its unlikely that diet alone is going to solve the problem. Ideally, take him to your vet for an exam so that they can help you identify the source of the odor and advise you on the best route to help. Having said all of that, regarding the shedding (and what may also help the odor), consider a diet designed for skin health. My favorite one is Science Diet sensitive stomach and skin. My dog with flaky, dry, sometimes itchy skin and excessive shedding has improved a lot on this diet. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/hills-science-diet-adult-sensitive-stomach-and-skin-chicken-recipe-dry-dog-food However, you can find a number of different brands with formulas designed for skin health. Use the one you are most comfortable with, but I would advise against "grain free." Best of luck! thanks for using PetCoach!

My dog sheds and smells. What food helps pancreatitis and skin?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?

Share