How to Tell from a Dog's Behavior That Its Food Is Unsuitable.

Digestive Issues

1. Changes in Stool Consistency

Observing stool consistency provides a direct measure of how well a dog tolerates its diet. A healthy canine typically produces firm, moist, and well‑formed feces that retain shape but break apart easily. Deviations from this baseline often signal dietary incompatibility.

Soft or watery stools indicate that the food may contain excessive moisture, indigestible fibers, or allergens that accelerate intestinal transit. Frequent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and nutrient loss, requiring immediate dietary adjustment.

Hard, dry, or crumbly stools suggest insufficient fiber, inadequate water intake, or an excess of protein that slows digestion. Constipation may cause abdominal discomfort and increase the risk of colonic issues.

Irregular color changes, such as yellowish or blackened feces, point to malabsorption, bile imbalance, or the presence of harmful ingredients. Persistent abnormal hues warrant a veterinary assessment.

Key observations to record:

Frequency: more than three bowel movements per day or fewer than one every two days.
Texture: liquid, mushy, or excessively hard.
Shape: loss of typical cylindrical form or fragmentation.
Color: deviation from medium brown to pale, yellow, or dark tones.
Odor: unusually foul or sour smell.

Consistent monitoring enables early detection of unsuitable feed. When any of the above patterns emerge, reduce the current food portion, introduce a novel protein source, or add a balanced fiber supplement. If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying health conditions and to formulate an appropriate diet plan.

2. Frequent Vomiting or Diarrhea

Frequent vomiting or diarrhea is a primary indicator that a dog’s diet may be inappropriate. The gastrointestinal tract reacts quickly to ingredients it cannot digest or that trigger an allergic response, resulting in repeated expulsion of stomach contents or loose stools. When these symptoms appear consistently-more than once per day over several days-they suggest a problem with the current food rather than a transient infection.

Key observations include:

Vomiting that occurs shortly after meals, especially if the dog appears eager to eat again.
Diarrhea that is watery, contains mucus, or is accompanied by blood.
Presence of undigested food particles in vomit or stool.
Weight loss despite normal or increased food intake.
Lethargy or reduced appetite concurrent with gastrointestinal upset.

If these signs emerge, the following steps are advisable:

Suspend the current diet for 24-48 hours, offering only bland, easily digestible foods such as boiled chicken and rice.
Reintroduce a novel protein source and a limited‑ingredient formula, monitoring the dog’s response for at least a week.
Record the timing and characteristics of any vomiting or stool changes to provide a clear history for the veterinarian.
Conduct a veterinary examination to rule out parasites, infections, or underlying medical conditions that may mimic dietary intolerance.

Consistent observation and systematic elimination of suspect ingredients enable owners to identify unsuitable food and restore gastrointestinal health.

3. Increased Flatulence

Increased flatulence is a direct indicator that a dog’s diet may contain indigestible or fermentable components. When a pet produces excessive gas, the gastrointestinal tract is reacting to substances that are either poorly broken down or rapidly fermented by intestinal bacteria.

Typical culprits include high‑fiber fillers such as soy, corn, and wheat, as well as excessive amounts of fat or lactose. These ingredients can overwhelm the digestive enzymes, leading to the production of volatile gases that are expelled as flatulence. Sudden changes in diet, especially the introduction of novel proteins or carbohydrate sources, often exacerbate the problem because the microbiome requires time to adapt.

Owners should monitor the frequency, odor, and volume of a dog’s gas. A noticeable increase beyond the normal baseline, accompanied by bloating or discomfort, suggests that the current food formulation is unsuitable. Veterinary assessment may involve stool analysis to identify specific fermentable carbohydrates or a trial elimination diet to pinpoint offending ingredients.

To mitigate excessive gas, select a diet with high‑quality, easily digestible proteins, limited grain content, and balanced fiber levels. Incorporating prebiotic fibers such as beet pulp can support a stable microbiome, while probiotic supplements may help restore bacterial equilibrium. Consistency in feeding schedule and gradual transitions between foods further reduce the risk of digestive upset.

If flatulence persists despite dietary adjustments, a veterinary professional should evaluate for underlying conditions such as food allergies, pancreatic insufficiency, or gastrointestinal disease, which may require targeted medical intervention.

4. Abdominal Discomfort or Bloating

When a dog experiences abdominal discomfort or bloating, the signs are often subtle but unmistakable to a trained observer. The animal may adopt a hunched posture, press its abdomen against the floor, or display a reluctance to lie down. Frequent shifting, restlessness, or an inability to settle for more than a few minutes suggests internal irritation.

Observable behaviors linked to gastrointestinal distress include:

Panting that is out of proportion to activity or temperature.
Whining or low‑frequency vocalizations, especially when the dog is in a supine position.
Repeatedly licking or biting at the belly region.
A sudden decrease in appetite, sometimes accompanied by drooling.

Physical cues may accompany these behaviors. A visibly distended abdomen, palpable tension, or a soft “gurgling” sound when the dog’s belly is gently pressed are strong indicators of inappropriate nutrition. In severe cases, the dog may exhibit signs of pain when the abdomen is touched, flinch, or retreat from contact.

Monitoring these patterns allows early identification of dietary incompatibility. Prompt adjustment of the diet, followed by observation of symptom resolution, confirms the link between the food and the abdominal issue. If discomfort persists despite dietary changes, veterinary assessment is essential to rule out underlying medical conditions.

Skin and Coat Problems

1. Excessive Scratching or Itching

Excessive scratching or itching often signals that a dog’s diet is causing a reaction. The skin’s response to unsuitable ingredients can appear within days of a dietary change or persist unnoticed for weeks. Recognizing the pattern helps differentiate nutritional issues from parasites or environmental allergens.

Typical manifestations include:

Continuous pawing at the coat, especially around the neck, ears, and abdomen.
Red, inflamed patches that bleed when the dog rubs them.
Hair loss in localized areas, creating thin or bald spots.
Visible dirt or debris trapped in the fur, suggesting the skin is not shedding properly.

When these signs accompany a recent introduction of new food, commercial treats, or a switch to a different formulation, the likelihood of a dietary cause rises. Nutrient imbalances, excessive protein sources, or hidden allergens such as corn, soy, or dairy can trigger histamine release, leading to pruritus. In some cases, low-quality fats degrade skin barrier function, increasing susceptibility to irritation.

Effective response involves:

Halting the suspect food and reverting to a limited‑ingredient, hypoallergenic diet.
Monitoring the dog for a reduction in scratching over a 7‑10‑day period.
Consulting a veterinarian for skin cytology or allergy testing if symptoms persist.

Prompt identification of food‑related itching prevents secondary infections and supports overall coat health.

2. Dull or Dry Coat

A dull, dry coat often signals that a dog’s diet lacks essential nutrients or contains inappropriate ingredients. When fur loses its natural sheen and feels brittle to the touch, the underlying issues usually involve insufficient protein, omega‑3 fatty acids, or an excess of low‑quality fillers that impair nutrient absorption.

Key observations include:

Coat appears matte rather than glossy, especially along the back and tail.
Hairs break easily; shedding increases without new growth.
Skin may feel tight or flaky, indicating inadequate moisture retention.
Dogs frequently scratch or lick affected areas, seeking relief from irritation.

These symptoms arise because high‑quality proteins provide the amino acids necessary for keratin synthesis, while essential fatty acids maintain lipid layers that keep hair supple. Diets heavy in carbohydrates, artificial preservatives, or cheap meat by‑products often fail to meet these requirements, leading to compromised coat health.

Remediation steps:

Verify that the food label lists a named animal protein source as the primary ingredient.
Ensure the formula includes at least 1 % fish oil, flaxseed, or another omega‑3 source.
Replace filler‑heavy meals with grain‑free or limited‑ingredient alternatives that prioritize digestibility.
Supplement with a veterinarian‑approved multivitamin if the current diet lacks vitamins A, E, and biotin.

Monitoring progress involves weekly visual checks and gentle brushing to assess texture. Improvement typically appears within four to six weeks after dietary adjustment, confirming that the previous coat condition was diet‑related.

3. Hot Spots or Rashes

When a dog reacts to an inappropriate diet, skin irritation often appears as hot spots or rashes. These lesions develop rapidly, presenting as reddened, inflamed patches that may ooze or crust. The underlying cause is typically an allergic or intolerant response to ingredients such as low‑quality proteins, excessive fillers, or artificial additives.

Key characteristics of diet‑related skin issues include:

Sudden onset after a change in food or introduction of a new brand.
Localized swelling that feels warm to the touch.
Presence of hair loss or broken fur around the affected area.
Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing that worsens the lesion.
Absence of other environmental triggers (e.g., fleas, contact irritants).

Veterinary assessment should confirm that the skin condition correlates with dietary intake. Elimination diets, where the dog receives a limited ingredient formula for 8-12 weeks, help isolate the offending component. If the rash resolves during this period and reappears when the original food is reintroduced, the diet is the definitive factor.

Owners can support recovery by:

Switching to a hypoallergenic, limited‑ingredient diet free of common allergens.
Cleaning the area with a mild antiseptic solution to prevent secondary infection.
Applying veterinary‑approved topical treatments to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Monitoring the dog's skin daily for recurrence provides early warning that the current food remains unsuitable. Prompt dietary adjustment prevents chronic dermatitis and protects overall health.

4. Hair Loss

Hair loss often signals that a dog’s diet is lacking essential nutrients. When the coat becomes thin, patches appear, or shedding exceeds normal levels, the underlying cause frequently relates to inadequate protein, essential fatty acids, or micronutrients.

Deficiencies disrupt the hair growth cycle. Low-quality protein reduces keratin synthesis, leading to brittle strands that break easily. Insufficient omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acids impair skin barrier function, resulting in inflammation and premature shedding. Deficits in zinc, biotin, and vitamin A compromise follicle health, producing localized alopecia.

Typical manifestations include:

Symmetrical bald spots on the chest, limbs, or tail base.
Uniform thinning along the dorsal line.
Excessive loose hair that does not clump when brushed.
Persistent dry, flaky skin accompanying the hair loss.

Addressing the issue requires a systematic review of the food’s composition. Verify that the ingredient list supplies high‑biological‑value protein, balanced ratios of omega‑3 to omega‑6 fatty acids, and adequate levels of zinc, biotin, and vitamin A. If the commercial formula appears deficient, supplement with a veterinary‑approved additive or transition to a diet formulated for skin and coat health. Conduct a blood panel to confirm nutrient status and rule out medical conditions that mimic dietary problems.

Early identification of coat deterioration enables prompt dietary correction, preventing further skin damage and supporting overall well‑being.

Energy Levels and Behavior

1. Lethargy or Reduced Activity

Veterinary nutrition specialist Dr. Elena Markov emphasizes that a noticeable decline in a dog’s energy levels often signals that the current diet fails to meet metabolic demands.

Insufficient protein, imbalanced fatty acids, or excessive carbohydrate load can impair muscle function and reduce glycogen reserves, leading to a sluggish demeanor. When the gastrointestinal tract processes food that lacks essential nutrients, the body reallocates energy to digestion, leaving less available for activity.

Typical manifestations of diet‑related lethargy include:

Reluctance to initiate walks or play sessions that were previously routine
Prolonged periods of resting in a single position, even after stimulation
Decreased responsiveness to commands or environmental cues
Slow recovery after short bursts of exercise, with lingering fatigue

These patterns differ from lethargy caused by illness or pain, which often accompany fever, vomiting, or localized discomfort. In dietary cases, the dog remains otherwise healthy, maintains normal body temperature, and shows no signs of inflammation.

To address the issue, owners should:

Review the ingredient list for high‑quality protein sources and balanced fat content.
Verify that the food meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient profiles for the dog’s life stage.
Conduct a trial period of 7‑10 days with a formulated diet that matches the dog’s size, activity level, and breed-specific requirements.
Monitor activity levels daily, recording any improvement or persistence of sluggishness.
Consult a veterinarian if lethargy persists despite dietary adjustment, to rule out underlying medical conditions.

Prompt correction of an unsuitable diet restores normal vigor and supports overall health.

2. Hyperactivity or Restlessness

Hyperactivity and restlessness often signal that a dog's diet is mismatched with its physiological needs. When a normally calm animal suddenly exhibits constant pacing, frequent jumping, or an inability to remain still for short periods, the digestive system may be reacting to excessive stimulants, inadequate protein, or imbalanced carbohydrates. Such energy spikes are not typical for the breed, age, or activity level, indicating that the current feed may be provoking an over‑release of glucose or triggering an allergic response that manifests as nervous behavior.

Key behavioral indicators include:

Continuous circling or pacing without a clear trigger.
Repeated attempts to escape confinement or frequent attempts to run despite lack of exercise.
Inability to settle even during meals, leading to rapid, erratic eating patterns.
Sudden bursts of activity followed by brief periods of lethargy, suggesting unstable blood‑sugar levels.

Addressing these signs involves evaluating the nutrient profile of the food, reducing ingredients known to cause hyperstimulation (such as high‑glycemic grains or artificial additives), and gradually transitioning to a formula with balanced protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids. Monitoring the dog's response for a reduction in restlessness over a two‑week adjustment period provides a practical test of dietary suitability.

3. Irritability or Aggression

Irritability and aggression frequently emerge when a dog’s diet fails to meet nutritional needs or contains irritants. Food that provokes inflammation, allergic reactions, or metabolic imbalance can alter neurotransmitter activity, leading to heightened sensitivity and reduced tolerance for normal stimuli. The resulting mood shifts may appear as snap reactions to minor disturbances, increased growling, or unexpected defensive postures.

Observable manifestations include:

Sudden snapping at familiar people or objects without provocation.
Persistent low‑grade growling during routine interactions.
Rapid escalation from mild annoyance to full‑scale bite attempts.
Restlessness combined with frequent pacing or inability to settle.
Refusal to engage in previously enjoyed activities, accompanied by hostile vocalizations.

These behaviors often coincide with other physiological signs such as digestive upset, skin irritation, or lethargy. When irritability or aggression appears alongside such symptoms, the diet should be re‑evaluated, and an elimination trial or veterinary nutrition assessment is advisable.

4. Lack of Enthusiasm for Food

A dog that shows little interest in meals often signals that the current diet does not meet its physiological or sensory needs. When an animal consistently turns its head away, sniffs without approaching the bowl, or leaves food untouched for extended periods, the underlying issue is usually nutritional incompatibility rather than temporary distraction.

First, evaluate the sensory appeal of the food. Dogs rely on aroma and texture; a bland smell or mushy consistency can reduce motivation to eat. Second, assess macronutrient balance. Excessive fiber or inadequate protein may cause early satiety, leading the animal to abandon the dish. Third, consider ingredient quality. Low‑grade fillers, artificial additives, or allergens can produce gastrointestinal discomfort that suppresses appetite. Fourth, review feeding schedule and portion size. Over‑feeding or irregular times can diminish natural hunger cues.

Practical steps:

Observe the dog’s reaction for at least three consecutive meals; note any hesitation, sniffing without consumption, or complete refusal.
Switch to a formula with higher protein content and limited filler ingredients; monitor changes in enthusiasm.
Introduce a limited‑ingredient or novel‑protein diet if an allergic response is suspected; document any improvement.
Adjust portion size to align with the dog’s weight, activity level, and metabolic rate; avoid excessive calories that blunt hunger signals.

If lack of enthusiasm persists after these adjustments, a veterinary assessment is warranted to rule out underlying medical conditions such as dental disease, gastrointestinal disorders, or systemic illness. Early identification of dietary mismatch prevents chronic undernutrition and supports optimal health.

Weight and Body Condition

1. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain

As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I observe that sudden shifts in a dog’s body condition often signal dietary incompatibility. When a dog loses weight without a change in activity level or health status, the food may lack adequate calories, protein, or essential fatty acids. Conversely, rapid weight gain can indicate excess caloric density, high carbohydrate content, or the presence of unnecessary fillers that promote fat accumulation.

Key indicators to monitor:

Consistent drop of more than 5 % of body weight over a few weeks despite normal feeding amounts.
Visible reduction in muscle mass along the spine and ribs, detectable by palpation.
Unexpected increase of 5 % or more in body weight within a short period, accompanied by a softened waistline.
Accumulation of fat deposits on the abdomen and hindquarters, even when the dog’s activity remains unchanged.

These patterns merit a review of the current diet’s nutrient profile. Calculate the metabolizable energy (ME) provided per kilogram of food and compare it with the dog’s maintenance energy requirement (MER). If the ME falls short, the dog will catabolize body reserves, leading to weight loss. If the ME exceeds MER, excess calories are stored as adipose tissue, resulting in weight gain.

Adjustments should focus on:

Selecting a formula with balanced protein (18‑25 % of dry matter) and appropriate fat levels (8‑12 % of dry matter).
Ensuring the ingredient list excludes low‑quality fillers that inflate caloric content without delivering nutrients.
Re‑evaluating portion sizes based on the dog’s ideal body weight rather than the current, compromised weight.

Regular weighing and body condition scoring provide objective data to confirm whether dietary modifications restore a stable, healthy weight trajectory.

2. Poor Muscle Mass

As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I observe that inadequate protein intake often manifests as reduced muscle bulk in dogs. Loss of lean tissue appears as a visible thinning of the ribcage, diminished shoulder musculature, and a softer feel when palpating the hindquarters. Owners may notice decreased stamina during walks, slower recovery after exercise, and an overall frail appearance despite normal body weight.

Key indicators of compromised muscle development include:

Persistent sagging of the abdomen or flanks.
Difficulty rising from a lying position.
Noticeable decline in jump height or agility.
Reduced grip strength when pulling a leash.

These symptoms typically arise when the diet lacks high‑quality, digestible proteins or supplies insufficient essential amino acids. Low‑grade kibble, grain‑heavy formulas, or homemade meals without balanced amino‑acid profiles fail to meet the metabolic demands of active musculature. Chronic under‑nutrition forces the body to catabolize muscle protein for energy, accelerating the loss of mass.

To address the issue, evaluate the food label for crude protein percentages appropriate to the dog’s life stage and activity level. Supplementation with animal‑based protein sources-such as chicken, beef, or fish-ensures a complete amino‑acid spectrum. Regularly monitor body condition scores and perform muscle‑tone assessments during veterinary examinations. Adjust the diet promptly if signs of muscle depletion persist.

3. Visible Ribs or Hips (even with adequate food intake)

Visible ribs or hips in a dog, even when the animal appears to eat enough, signal that the current diet is not meeting its nutritional needs. Thinness in these areas often results from insufficient calories, imbalanced macronutrients, or a lack of essential vitamins and minerals that support lean tissue maintenance. Low-quality protein can force the body to break down muscle to obtain amino acids, revealing skeletal landmarks despite regular feeding.

Key factors to consider:

Calorie density - Foods with high water or filler content may deliver fewer usable calories per gram, leaving the dog in a chronic energy deficit.
Protein quality - Incomplete or poorly digestible protein sources limit muscle synthesis, causing loss of lean mass.
Micronutrient gaps - Deficiencies in zinc, copper, and B‑vitamins impair skin, coat, and muscle health, accelerating visible bone structures.
Fat composition - Insufficient essential fatty acids reduce energy storage and hinder the skin’s protective barrier, making ribs more apparent.

To address the issue, an expert would recommend the following steps:

Perform a body condition score (BCS) assessment to quantify the degree of thinness.
Review the ingredient list for high‑quality animal proteins, appropriate fat levels, and minimal fillers.
Calculate the dog’s daily energy requirement based on weight, activity, and life stage; compare this figure with the food’s metabolizable energy.
Adjust the diet by increasing calorie density-add healthy fats, reduce moisture‑rich fillers, or switch to a formula with higher protein digestibility.
Supplement missing micronutrients only after veterinary testing confirms a deficiency.

Monitoring weight trends over two‑week intervals will reveal whether the adjustments restore a healthy silhouette. Persistent rib visibility despite dietary changes warrants a veterinary examination to rule out underlying medical conditions such as parasites, endocrine disorders, or gastrointestinal malabsorption.

Other Physical Symptoms

1. Frequent Ear Infections

Frequent ear infections often signal that a dog’s diet is not meeting its nutritional needs. Inadequate essential fatty acids, such as omega‑3 and omega‑6, compromise the skin barrier and reduce inflammation control, creating an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive. Excessive carbohydrates or low‑quality protein can alter gut flora, leading to systemic inflammation that manifests in the ears. Allergens hidden in low‑grade ingredients provoke hypersensitivity reactions, which frequently present as recurrent otitis.

Key dietary factors linked to chronic ear problems include:

High grain content, especially wheat and corn, which can trigger food‑related allergies.
Low levels of zinc and biotin, essential for healthy skin and ear canal integrity.
Insufficient omega‑3 fatty acids, reducing anti‑inflammatory capacity.
Presence of artificial preservatives or flavor enhancers that may irritate the immune system.

Veterinary assessment should combine ear cytology with a dietary review. If infections persist despite proper ear cleaning and medication, eliminating potential allergens through a limited‑ingredient or novel protein diet often reduces infection frequency. Monitoring the dog’s response over a 4‑ to 6‑week trial provides clear evidence of whether the original food contributed to the problem.

In practice, adjusting the diet to include high‑quality animal protein, balanced fatty acids, and limited carbohydrate sources can restore ear health and prevent recurring infections. Regular evaluation of ear condition should be part of any nutrition‑focused health plan for dogs.

2. Paw Licking or Chewing

Paw licking or chewing often signals a dietary problem that the animal cannot easily articulate. When a dog repeatedly gnaws at its pads, the behavior usually reflects an internal irritation rather than a simple habit. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly in essential fatty acids, can compromise skin integrity, leading to dryness, inflammation, and a heightened urge to soothe the area with the mouth. Likewise, excessive protein or low‑quality ingredients may trigger gastrointestinal upset, which manifests as systemic itchiness that the dog attempts to alleviate by focusing on its paws.

Key physiological mechanisms behind this response include:

Omega‑3 and omega‑6 imbalance - insufficient anti‑inflammatory fats weaken the skin barrier, causing pruritus that extends to the feet.
Allergic reactions to additives - preservatives, artificial colors, or novel protein sources can provoke hypersensitivity, with paw chewing as a localized symptom.
Mineral excesses - high calcium or phosphorus levels interfere with cellular turnover, resulting in rough pads that the dog chews to smooth.

Observation of the licking pattern provides diagnostic clues. Short, intermittent bouts often indicate mild irritation, while prolonged, obsessive chewing suggests a chronic issue such as persistent food intolerance. Accompanying signs-redness, swelling, hair loss around the pads, or a foul odor-strengthen the link to nutrition.

Practical steps for owners:

Switch to a diet formulated with balanced fatty acids and free of common allergens.
Introduce a limited‑ingredient trial food for 8-12 weeks, monitoring paw behavior daily.
Supplement with omega‑3 oil if the new diet lacks sufficient levels.
Consult a veterinarian to rule out infections or parasites that may coexist with dietary factors.

If paw licking diminishes after dietary adjustment, the connection is confirmed. Persistent behavior despite changes warrants further medical evaluation, as non‑nutritional causes may be present.

3. Watery or Red Eyes

Watery or red eyes in a dog often indicate an adverse reaction to the current diet. Irritation of the ocular surface may result from food‑borne allergens, excess sodium, or contaminants that trigger inflammation. When the eyes produce excessive tears, the tear film becomes unstable, allowing irritants to accumulate and cause redness. Persistent conjunctival redness, especially if accompanied by itching or rubbing, suggests that the nutritional composition is compromising the animal’s immune response.

Key observations to monitor:

Continuous tearing that does not subside after a brief wipe.
Visible blood vessels dilated across the white of the eye (hyperemia).
Frequent pawing at the face or shaking of the head.
Accompanying signs such as ear inflammation, skin itchiness, or gastrointestinal upset.

If these symptoms appear shortly after introducing a new food, eliminate the suspect product and replace it with a hypoallergenic, low‑additive formula. Conduct a gradual reintroduction schedule, observing ocular health each day. Should redness or watering persist beyond a week, consult a veterinarian for allergy testing and possible dietary adjustments. Early detection of ocular distress prevents chronic inflammation and supports overall canine well‑being.

4. Excessive Shedding

Excessive shedding often signals that a dog’s diet fails to meet nutritional requirements for healthy hair growth. Insufficient protein, low-quality fats, or a deficiency in essential fatty acids disrupts the hair follicle cycle, causing premature hair loss and a dull coat.

When a dog begins to lose more hair than its breed standard predicts, look for additional indicators that the food may be inadequate:

Coat appears brittle, dry, or lacks shine.
Skin feels rough, may develop flakiness or redness.
Dogs seem uncomfortable when brushed, showing signs of irritation.

Addressing the issue involves evaluating the current diet and adjusting nutrient levels. Choose a formula with high‑quality animal protein, a balanced omega‑3 to omega‑6 ratio, and adequate vitamins such as biotin and zinc. Transition gradually to prevent gastrointestinal upset, and monitor shedding intensity over two weeks to confirm improvement. If excessive loss persists, consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying health conditions.