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Best Dog Skin & Coat Medications

Updated March 2024
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Apoquel Tablets for Dogs
Apoquel
Tablets for Dogs
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Non-steroidal
Bottom Line

Non-steroidal medication likely to provide your dog the relief he needs with few side effects.

Pros

This non-steroidal prescription medication earns praise from pet owners and pet care professionals for calming skin allergy symptoms and causing fewer side effects than other commonly prescribed allergy medications. Relieves symptoms quickly. Well-tolerated by most pets.

Cons

Not for young puppies or dogs with major infections. Although rare, stomach upset is possible, but tends to fade.

Best Bang for the Buck
Nutramax Welactin Canine Omega-3 Liquid Dog Supplement
Nutramax
Welactin Canine Omega-3 Liquid Dog Supplement
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Skin-nourishing Formula
Bottom Line

A drug-free option to ease your dog's skin and coat problems. It's a plus that most dogs love the flavor.

Pros

A supplement that is effective at calming itchy skin for most canines. Makes fur soft and shiny. Made with fish oil that's packed with omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial to the skin. The liquid form is easy to give with food. No prescription required.

Cons

Not ideal for serious skin problems, and won't treat infections. Some reports of leaky bottles.

Atopica Cyclosporine Capsules for Dogs
Atopica
Cyclosporine Capsules for Dogs
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Ideal for Dermatitis
Bottom Line

Many dog owners say works wonders for their pets' allergy-related dermatitis.

Pros

Treats dermatitis caused by common allergens, such as insects, certain foods, and pollen. Reduces dogs' urge to itch, which allows inflamed, irritated skin to heal.

Cons

Some of the most common side effects include stomach upset with vomiting or diarrhea and loss of appetite. Not recommended for pups or pregnant or nursing dogs.

Ketoconazole Generic Tablets
Ketoconazole
Generic Tablets
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For Fungus & Yeast
Bottom Line

An effective treatment for major yeast conditions of the skin and ringworms.

Pros

This medication is frequently prescribed for yeast and fungal infections like ringworm that can cause itchy skin and splotchy hair loss. Highly effective when taken as prescribed.

Cons

Upset of the digestive system is possible during treatment. Other side effects are rare but possible. Not for pregnant or nursing dogs, or those with other serious health problems.

Bark&Spark Soft Chewable Omega-3 Supplement, 180 Pieces
Bark&Spark
Soft Chewable Omega-3 Supplement, 180 Pieces
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Easiest to Use
Bottom Line

Easy-to-use and chewable, chicken-flavored supplement supports healthy hips and joints alongside dry and itchy skin.

Pros

Omega-3 is great on irritable skin. Dogs who don't like creams and lotions can chew this product like a treat. You receive up to a 3-year supply of treats. They aim for a natural flavor that won't be off-putting to your picky, 4-legged eater.

Cons

Some dogs still don't like the salmon flavor of this product, but most appear to enjoy it.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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Consumers
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Researched
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The majority of pooches experience skin issues during their lifetimes. Parasites, immune system issues, and allergies are some of the most common agitators that can cause skin to become red, itchy, and even infected. When these problems occur, canine coats suffer too, resulting in loss of fur, odors, and dull, dry coats. But there's no need to stress if your dog has a troubling skin or coat condition, because there are medications that can help relieve symptoms as well as improve your pet's coat. Start by consulting with your veterinarian to find the medication that will work best for your dog's problem. Keep in mind that some medications require prescriptions to purchase.

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