Itching, red skin, bald spots or an unpleasant odor – skin problems are among the most common reasons why dogs are presented to the vet. Many complaints can be managed with good care, but sometimes it is important to seek veterinary help quickly. But where is the line?

Common Skin Problems in Dogs

Dogs can develop a variety of skin conditions. The most common include:

• Itching and scratching due to allergies, parasites or dry skin

• Hair loss and bald spots, often from licking or biting

• Redness and rash, e.g., after contact with grass or insect bites

• Dandruff or dry skin, especially in winter

• Oozing or odor, which can indicate infections

When is home care enough?

You can often relieve minor skin problems yourself, for example by:

• gentle cleaning of the affected area

• avoiding excessive bathing or aggressive shampoos

• a sufficiently balanced diet to strengthen skin and coat

• protection from common triggers like pollen, dust or fleas

When should you see a vet?

There are clear warning signs where you should not hesitate:

• your dog is scratching or biting until it bleeds

• bald spots are spreading rapidly

• skin is severely red, swollen or oozing

• unpleasant odor indicates an infection

• your dog appears lethargic, isn't eating, or has an additional fever

In these cases, a visit to the vet is essential to clarify the cause and treat it specifically.

Did you know? Your dog's skin is its largest organ, making up to 12% of its body weight. It's not just a protective layer, but also an important immune system – and often the first to show when something is wrong in the body.

Tips for healthy dog skin

• Ensure a balanced diet with high-quality proteins and fatty acids.

• Regularly check skin and coat for redness, parasites, or changes.

• Provide sufficient exercise, fresh air, and stress reduction – this also strengthens skin health.

Doderm – natural support for dog skin

Doderm contains antibodies from milk that specifically neutralize harmful bacteria without disturbing the balance of the skin flora. This strengthens the skin barrier, soothes irritations, and supports regeneration. Gentle, effective, and natural – so your dog feels completely comfortable in its own skin again.