Skin Health & Nutrition — Why Novel Proteins Matter

Why Skin Health Starts in the Bowl

The skin isn’t just your dog’s largest organ — it’s a protective barrier. When that barrier becomes inflamed or damaged, problems such as itching, dryness, redness, or recurrent ear infections can follow. The right nutrition — from hypoallergenic dog food to targeted novel protein dog food — helps restore balance, strengthen the skin’s defences, and reduce allergy flare-ups.

Understanding the Root Causes of Skin Issues

Itchy, irritated skin can have many triggers — environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites, plus food sensitivities or nutritional imbalances. Dogs with reactive immune systems may overrespond to common proteins, leading to persistent scratching, hot-spots, or hair loss.

Modern diets and reduced exposure to natural microbes may increase intolerance to familiar foods such as chicken or beef. That’s why many vets recommend a structured elimination diet using single protein dog food to identify safe ingredients.

The Therapeutic Power of Nutrition

Research shows that targeted nutrition can directly influence skin health. Key nutrients that play a vital role include:

• Essential fatty acids (Omega-3 & Omega-6): Support a healthy skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and promote a glossy coat.
• Zinc: Important for wound healing, skin renewal, and coat shine.
• Vitamins A, E and B-complex: Support cellular regeneration and protect against oxidative stress.

Why Novel Proteins Make a Difference

When a dog’s immune system becomes sensitised to common proteins like chicken, beef or lamb, switching to a novel protein — one the body hasn’t encountered before — can help calm inflammation and restore normal skin function. This approach sits at the heart of an effective elimination diet.

Our Happy Dog Sensible range is built around this principle, offering carefully selected single protein dog food options that lower allergy risk and support healthy digestion.

• Wet Kangaroo – ideal for sensitive digestion and protein rotation.
• Wet Ostrich – rich in easily digestible, low-allergen protein.
• Wet Goat – gentle on stomachs and skin.
• Wet Horse – the perfect option for elimination diets.
• Dry Ostrich – balanced and nutrient-rich for long-term feeding.
• Dry Horse – highly digestible formula with essential fatty acids for coat health.

Building Healthier Skin from Within

Feeding a diet built around high-quality, single animal proteins and the right balance of Omega-3, zinc and vitamins helps to restore your dog’s natural protective barrier. The result? Less itching, a stronger immune system, and a visibly healthier coat. For many dogs, a phased elimination diet using hypoallergenic dog food or novel protein dog food is the most reliable way to find lasting relief.