Long-haired and short-haired breeds agree: Healthy hair is an important factor in a dog’s daily life. In fact, VCA Hospitals identifies the state of your dog’s fur as a major indicator of their overall health. To get a soft, silky coat that matches the way your pet feels physically, be sure to include these nutrients in your dog’s diet.

Fats

For dogs, fat is key. Pet nutrition expert Steve Brown explains that balanced fats can make your dog’s health thrive, a concept made even more important by the degree to which dogs rely on fats in their diets. Fats like omega-3 and -6, for example, are essential for skin health and allow your dog to grow healthy fur. In fact, without these dietary fats, dogs typically develop dry, coarse hair and rough skin.

One commonly prescribed source of omega-3 is fish oil, an ingredient some humans supplement, too. The Cummings Veterinary Medical Center finds omega-3s like fish oil to be helpful in producing healthy coats and reducing inflammation and joint pain. But there are lots of other healthy sources of omega-3 and -6 if fish isn’t your dog’s thing.

Protein

Dogs, like humans, need protein to survive. But the right amount (or the wrong amount) of this vital nutrient also affects our pets’ fur. The National Research Council (NRC) explains that dogs need 22 amino acids, or protein building blocks. 12 of those are created within dogs’ bodies—but 10 of them need to be consumed as food.

The NRC also states that dogs can tell when foods don’t contain all essential amino acids and will turn down such foods in pursuit of more nutritionally adequate options. That’s also why dogs are often so eager for natural protein-rich snacks like those at Best Bully Sticks.

Vitamins and minerals

In addition to caloric nutrients like protein and fat, dogs need nutrients such as biotin and zinc to grow a better-looking coat. VCA Hospitals explains that zinc deficiency can interfere with your dog’s development of skin and hair, while biotin is needed to process omega-6 fatty acids in the skin.

A quality dog food or treat should fulfill your dog’s daily recommended requirement of vitamins and minerals. And because coat health is indicative of overall health, it’s important to ensure your pet is getting all the nutrients they need

Another way to ensure your dog is eating high-quality nutrients is by choosing fresh, whole food options. Best Bully Sticks treats and chews have one ingredient and provide a tasty natural option for pets of all sizes.