Best Dog Skin & Coat Medications

Updated November 2021
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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. Read more  
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.Read more 
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Apoquel Tablets for Dogs
Apoquel
Tablets for Dogs
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Popular Persciption
Bottom Line

This medication is becoming a go-to favorite among dog owners and veterinarians for being highly effective at treating skin allergies. The results include itch-free skin, healed irritations, and minimal side effects for most dogs that take it.

Pros

Most dogs experience excellent results and few side effects with this prescription medication that treats skin allergies and related symptoms without steroids. Works fast and calms the urge to scratch.

Cons

Won't work for serious skin infections. Not recommended for puppies or dogs with serious illnesses. Initial doses may cause digestive upset that fades once dogs adjust to the medication.

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

Check with your veterinarian first, then choose this supplement if you and vet agree on 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. 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

If your dog suffers from allergies that lead to dermatitis, ask your veterinarian about this prescription medication that many dog owners say works wonders for their pets.

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.

Derma-Vet Ointment
Derma-Vet
Ointment
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Topical Treatment
Bottom Line

A multi-purpose topical skin medication that's prescribed to treat numerous bacterial and fungal skin infections. A choice for dogs that are difficult to pill when ointment form is a practical alternative.

Pros

Ointment medication that works as an anti-fungal, antibiotic, antibacterial, and anti-itch treatment in one. Treats bacterial and yeast infections. Calms hot spots and soothes irritation. Easy to use.

Cons

Not recommended for dogs that are sensitive to steroidal medications. May cause stomach upset. Not for long-term use.

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

Despite the possible side effects, the benefits outweigh the risk for most canines that require an effective treatment for major yeast condition of the skin and ringworm variety.

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.

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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51
Models
Considered
135
Consumers
Consulted
8
Hours
Researched
Category cover

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.

Other Products We Considered
The BestReviews editorial team researches hundreds of products based on consumer reviews, brand quality, and value. We then choose a shorter list for in-depth research and testing before finalizing our top picks. These are the products we considered that ultimately didn't make our top 5.
Petaxin
Dogs Skin and Coat Supplement Chews
NUSENTIA
Miracle Dog Probiotics for Dogs
Natural Dog Company
Skin Soother
Zesty Paws
Alaskan Fish Oil Chew Treats for Dogs
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care
Antiseptic and Antifungal Spray for Dogs and Cats
Dermoscent
SpotOn Skin Care for Medium Dogs 22 to 44 lbs
NaturVet
Septiderm-V Skin Care Bath
Jungle Pet
Skin + Coat Omega-3 Fatty Acids
PPP
Pet Tar-ific Skin Relief Shampoo
Bayer Animal Health
moisturizer for Dry Skin and Coat
See more
Our Top Picks
Apoquel
Best of the Best
Apoquel
Tablets for Dogs
Bottom Line
This medication is becoming a go-to favorite among dog owners and veterinarians for being highly effective at treating skin allergies. The results include itch-free skin, healed irritations, and minimal side effects for most dogs that take it.
Shop Now
Nutramax
Best Bang for the Buck
Nutramax
Welactin Canine Omega-3 Liquid Dog Supplement
Bottom Line
Check with your veterinarian first, then choose this supplement if you and vet agree on a drug-free option to ease your dog's skin and coat problems. It's a plus that most dogs love the flavor.
Shop Now
Atopica
Top Pick
Atopica
Cyclosporine Capsules for Dogs
Bottom Line
If your dog suffers from allergies that lead to dermatitis, ask your veterinarian about this prescription medication that many dog owners say works wonders for their pets.
Shop Now
Derma-Vet
Top Pick
Derma-Vet
Ointment
Bottom Line
A multi-purpose topical skin medication that's prescribed to treat numerous bacterial and fungal skin infections. A choice for dogs that are difficult to pill when ointment form is a practical alternative.
Shop Now
Ketoconazole
Top Pick
Ketoconazole
Generic Tablets
Bottom Line
Despite the possible side effects, the benefits outweigh the risk for most canines that require an effective treatment for major yeast condition of the skin and ringworm variety.
Shop Now