Did you know that skin and coat issues in dogs have increased over 30% in past 5 years? Atopic dermatitis in dogs, also known as canine atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with allergies. It often manifests as itching, redness, and inflammation of the skin. It can be caused by allergies to either their dog food or environmental allergens. As problematic as these skin issues can be, there is now exciting news about how insect protein can help dogs with these issues!
SIGNS OF ATOPIC DERMATITIS IN DOGS
The most common symptoms are mostly what you would expect:
- Itching and Scratching: Persistent itching, leading to scratching, biting, or licking the affected areas.
- Redness and Inflammation: The skin may appear red, inflamed, and swollen.
- Lesions and Scabs: Over time, constant scratching can cause skin lesions, scabs, and secondary infections.
- Hair Loss: Areas of hair loss may occur due to excessive scratching and licking.
The areas that are commonly affected include your dog’s ears, paws, belly, armpits, groin, and face.
Some breeds are genetically predisposed to atopic dermatitis. Breeds with higher susceptibility include:
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Boxers
- Bulldogs
- Terriers (e.g., West Highland White Terriers, Boston Terriers)
- Setters (e.g., Irish Setters)
- Shar-Peis
- Poodles
INSECT PROTEIN IMPROVES YOUR DOG’S SKIN
Insect protein, and in particular BSFL, shows promise for dogs with atopic dermatitis. Dogs on a diet with 29.5% BSFL meal (this is the amount of BSFL in Jiminy’s Good Grub Dog Food) had reduced water loss in their skin and improved skin hydration. These are two extremely important measures of skin health!
REDUCED WATER LOSS IN THE DOG’S SKIN
Water loss is measured by looking at the trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) in a dog’s belly and ear (pinna) regions over time. Trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) is defined as the amount of water that passively evaporates through skin to the external environment due to a water vapor pressure gradient on both sides of the skin barrier and is commonly used to characterize skin barrier function and integrity. In this new study, TEWL in the belly was significantly lower in dogs on the BSFL diet compared to those on a control diet made with 26% poultry by-product meal.
Figure 1: BSFL Reduces Water Loss in Skin
IMPROVED HYDRATION OF THE DOG’S SKIN
Skin hydration was measured by measuring the stratum corneum hydration (SCH) in the belly and pinna of Beagles dogs. Stratum corneum hydration (SCH) refers the amount of water contained in the stratum corneum layer of the skin. The results can be seen in Figure 2, the dogs on a BSFL diet had significantly improved skin hydration by day 45.
Figure 2: BSFL Improves Skin Moisture
FATTY ACIDS IN BSFL IMPROVE SKIN MOISTURE
The improvement in skin condition is thanks to the fatty acids in BSFL, which increase sebaceous lipids in the skin, leading to less water loss and a stronger skin barrier. BSFL proved effective in improving skin barrier function, making BSFL a valuable alternative protein source for dogs, particularly those with sensitive skin or allergies manifesting on the skin.
JIMINY’S GOOD GRUB FOR A HEALTHY SKIN & COAT
Here at Jiminy’s, we’ve heard success stories about dogs with skin issues that were solved when the dog started a Jiminy’s diet. We’re so excited that now, thanks to this new study, we’re able to add "Healthy Skin & Coat" as a benefit on our packaging! You will see the new packages in market around the beginning of 2025. Here’s a preview of what the bag will look like.
Just to be clear, our food isn’t changing, it is just a benefit that we can now claim thanks to the peer reviewed and published study! If you know a dog that has skin issues, please help us spread the word!
Frequently Asked Questions About Improving Your Dog’s Skin Through Diet
1. How does diet affect my dog’s skin health?
A dog’s diet directly impacts skin and coat condition. Nutrients like high-quality protein, essential fatty acids (especially omega-3s), vitamins, and minerals support a strong skin barrier, hydration, and reduced inflammation, which can help prevent dryness, itching, and irritation.
2. What are the best nutrients for my dog’s skin and coat?
Key nutrients that benefit skin and coat include:
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Protein: essential for skin cell repair and fur structure
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Omega-3 & omega-6 fatty acids: maintain moisture and reduce inflammation
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Vitamins (A, E, B): support cell regeneration and coat shine
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Zinc & trace minerals: help prevent dryness and support healthy coat growth
These nutrients help keep the skin barrier strong and the coat glossy.
3. Can a balanced diet reduce itching and irritation?
Yes — feeding a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can reduce inflammation and itchy skin. Essential fatty acids (like EPA and DHA) in particular are known to have anti-inflammatory effects that support skin comfort.
4. Are novel proteins helpful for dogs with skin issues?
Dogs prone to food allergies often react to common proteins like chicken or beef. Using novel proteins, such as insect protein, may reduce allergic reactions and skin irritation because they’re less likely to trigger immune responses linked to itchy skin.
5. How does gut health influence my dog’s skin?
The gut-skin connection means that a healthy digestive system supports skin wellness. Prebiotic fibers (like chitin in insect protein) feed beneficial gut bacteria, which may help lower systemic inflammation and improve skin condition in sensitive dogs.
6. Can switching my dog’s food help with skin allergies?
Yes — adjusting your dog’s diet can help manage skin allergies. Hypoallergenic diets formulated with novel proteins or fewer common allergens may reduce allergic skin reactions and itching. Always transition food gradually and consult your vet for tailored guidance. ([turn0search24][turn0search2])
7. What role do omega-3 fatty acids play in skin health?
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) help maintain cell integrity, reduce inflammation, and support a hydrated skin barrier, which can result in less flakiness, itchiness, and a healthier coat overall. ([turn0search0][turn0search21])
8. Is hydration important for my dog’s skin?
Yes — proper hydration supports healthy skin cell function and helps maintain elasticity and moisture. Access to fresh, clean water every day is important for overall skin and coat health.
9. Can natural dietary fiber benefit my dog’s skin?
Natural fibers like chitin (a prebiotic fiber in insect protein) support the gut microbiome, which can indirectly support skin health by reducing overall inflammation and improving digestion.
10. When should I see a vet about skin problems?
If skin symptoms persist despite dietary changes — such as ongoing itching, redness, sores, hair loss, or irritation — consult your veterinarian. These symptoms can sometimes signal infections, allergies, or underlying health issues requiring medical care.
