Top 10 Ways to Keep Your Dog’s Skin & Coat Hydrated and Healthy

Expert Tips from Veterinary Dermatologist Dr. Christina Mazulis

When it comes to your dog’s skin and coat health, hydration is everything. Dry, itchy skin and a dull coat aren’t just cosmetic issues. They can be a sign that your dog’s skin barrier is compromised. We asked board-certified veterinary dermatologist Dr. Christina Mazulis to share her top tips to help modern dog parents keep their pups’ skin nourished, their coats shiny, and their noses boop-worthy.

1. Support Their Skin Barrier

Your dog’s skin barrier is their first line of defense against allergens, bacteria, and irritation. When it’s dry or damaged, you’ll see it in dull fur, flakiness, or itchiness. Hydrating ingredients like glycerin, aloe, and lightweight oils help replenish moisture without clogging pores or weighing the coat down.

2. Avoid Harsh, Drying Ingredients

Many grooming products (even ones made for pets) contain ingredients that can strip away natural oils and leave skin feeling dry and tight. Skip the sulfates, alcohol, parabens, and heavy artificial fragrances. They’re hard on your dog’s delicate skin.

3. Choose a Coat Refresher That Hydrates, Too

A light mist or coat refresher is a great way to keep your dog smelling fresh between baths — but make sure it’s doing more than masking odors. Look for formulas that contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin or coconut-derived moisturizers to help keep your dog’s coat soft, smooth, and moisturized. (Hint: That’s exactly why we created Ozzeau Nuzzle Mist.)

4. Don't Overbathe

Too-frequent baths can strip away the natural oils your dog’s skin needs to stay hydrated. Unless your vet recommends otherwise, most dogs only need a bath every 4–6 weeks. In between, use a light, hydrating coat refresher to keep things clean without drying out their skin.

5. Feed for Skin & Coat Health

Hydration isn’t just about what’s on the outside — it starts from within. Make sure your dog’s diet includes healthy fats like omega-3s and omega-6s, which help nourish the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.

6. Keep Your Dog Hydrated

It sounds obvious, but it matters: Proper hydration is key to skin health. Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Dehydration can lead to dry skin and dull, brittle fur.

7. Watch for Seasonal Dryness

Cold weather, dry air, and even indoor heating can dry out your dog’s skin. During winter months or allergy season, it may help to step up your hydration game with moisture-boosting products and gentle brushing.

8. Moisturize After Bath Time

If your dog tolerates it, use a leave-in conditioner, coat mist, or moisturizing balm after bath time. This helps lock in hydration and keep their skin barrier happy.

9. Be Gentle with Fragrance

Dogs have super-sensitive noses, and heavy artificial fragrances can irritate both their skin and their senses. Choose light, pet-safe scents that are paired with hydrating ingredients, so your pup smells fresh without the harsh chemicals.

10. Make Grooming a Routine, Not a Rescue Mission

Hydration isn’t a one-time thing. Regular, gentle grooming — brushing, moisturizing mists, healthy nutrition, and water — all work together to keep your dog’s skin and coat in peak condition.

Dr. Christina’s Final Tip:

“Your dog’s skin health is the foundation of their coat’s shine, softness, and comfort. Prioritizing hydration — inside and out — makes a world of difference.”

Want to learn more?
Follow us on Instagram @ozzeau and drop your doggy skincare questions. We may feature them in a future post with Dr. Christina!

About Dr. Christina Mazulis
Dr. Christina Mazulis is a Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist and Ozzeau’s resident skin health expert, bringing clinical expertise and a passion for personalized pet care to every article she writes.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. For any concerns about your dog’s health, consult your veterinarian.