Pet parents strive to keep their pets healthy and looking good. And if you have a dog, there’s probably nothing more important than ensuring they have a shiny coat. Interestingly, a dog’s lustrous coat is a sign of good health, which can only be achieved by following practices like proper grooming, balanced nutrition, exercise, and care. Below are five ways to ensure your little pooch has a healthy and shiny coat.

Brush their coat
Whether your pup has little fur or is a walking ball of fluff, brushing is an essential part of grooming. It helps remove dead skin under the coat and untie knotted hair, ensuring bouncy fur. Find a brush that best suits your dog’s breed.

Bathe them regularly
This doesn’t mean you shower them every day. Doing so can actually be counterproductive and damage their fur by stripping off natural oils. Bathing once every two weeks is enough, especially if they spend most of their time indoors.

Take care of their nutrition
Healthy meals will not only keep your dog energetic and disease-free but also nourish its skin and coat. Vets suggest dog meals rich in omega fatty acids. A lean protein nutrition plan can also ensure healthy fur as the keratin present in protein strengthens their hair.

Use the right shampoo
Before getting a shampoo, contact a vet to find how often you need to bathe your pet. Once their bathing schedule is finalized, choose a shampoo that best suits their fur and skin.

Use essential oils
Massaging essential oils gently underneath the fur suppresses odor and also prevents tick and flea infestations. Besides, essential oils supplement natural oils, ensuring a long-lasting shine. However, it’s better to consult a vet to ensure your dog isn’t allergic to essential oils.

While these factors can help maintain healthy and shiny fur, it’s essential to be aware of alternative treatment options that prevent flea and tick infestations.

K9 Advantix® II
K9 Advantix® II is a popular option for dogs. K9 Advantix® II is a topical solution that prevents fleas, ticks, and heartworm infestations in dogs. It can be applied between their shoulder blades.

Simparica Trio
This is an FDA-approved option to prevent fleas, ticks, and heartworm infestations. Simparica Trio chewable treats for dogs can be given once a month to puppies as young as eight weeks who weigh at least 2.8 lbs.