Supplements for Skin Conditions in Pets: What Works and What Doesn’t?

Skin conditions in pets can be frustrating for both owners and veterinarians. Many pet owners turn to supplements as a way to support skin health, but which ones actually work? In this post, we’ll take a scientific look at the most commonly recommended supplements, their evidence base, and whether they are worth considering for your pet.

Fatty Acids: The Gold Standard in Skin Supplements

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are among the most researched and widely recommended supplements for skin health in pets, particularly in dogs with allergic skin disease (Canine Atopic Dermatitis, or CAD). The key omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are primarily found in fish oil, while omega-6 fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, come from plant oils like sunflower or safflower oil.

Scientific Evidence:

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation by reducing the production of inflammatory molecules and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory molecules. Several studies have demonstrated their ability to reduce pruritus (itching) and improve coat quality in dogs with CAD.
• Barrier Function Improvement: Omega-6 fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, contribute to skin barrier integrity, reducing transepidermal water loss and improving hydration.
• Combination Therapy: Many veterinary dermatologists recommend using fatty acids alongside antihistamines or corticosteroids, as they can reduce the required dosage of pharmaceutical treatments while maintaining clinical benefits.

Vitamins for Skin Health: Do They Work?

Certain vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, but supplementation is not always necessary unless a deficiency exists.

Vitamin A:

• Essential for keratinization and cellular turnover. Deficiencies can lead to dry, flaky skin and follicular hyperkeratosis.
• Found in animal liver, fish oil, and egg yolk.
• Over-supplementation can be harmful, leading to hypervitaminosis A, especially in cats.

Vitamin E:

• Acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from oxidative stress.
• Some evidence suggests it may help in inflammatory skin diseases, though studies in dogs and cats are limited.
• Often included in commercial skin supplements.

B Vitamins (Biotin, Niacin, Riboflavin):

• Biotin is particularly noted for improving coat quality and reducing seborrhea in dogs.
• Deficiencies are rare in pets fed a balanced commercial diet.
• Some studies suggest that supplementation may be beneficial in cases of dull coat and excessive shedding.

💡 Takeaway: While vitamins play a role in skin health, routine supplementation is unnecessary for pets on balanced diets unless a specific deficiency is diagnosed.

Probiotics and Gut-Skin Connection

The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as influencing skin health. Some researchers propose that modifying gut flora with probiotics could help manage allergic and inflammatory skin conditions.

Scientific Evidence:

• Atopic Dermatitis: A study by Cauquil et al. (2025) suggested that certain probiotic strains (e.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus) may reduce the severity of allergic skin conditions in dogs.
• Barrier Function: The gut microbiome influences immune system regulation, which in turn affects the skin barrier. A well-balanced microbiome can help prevent excessive immune reactions leading to skin inflammation.
• Human Parallels: In human dermatology, probiotics have been studied for eczema and acne, with some promising results, though direct evidence in pets remains limited.

💡 Best Sources: Veterinary-specific probiotic formulations and prebiotic fiber to support gut flora.

Other Supplements: Hype or Hope?

Several other supplements are marketed for skin health, but their evidence base is weak or inconsistent:

• Zinc: Essential for skin integrity and wound healing. Deficiencies (such as Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis in some breeds like Huskies) require supplementation, but excess zinc can be toxic.
• Collagen: Popular in human skincare but lacks substantial veterinary research.
• Herbal Extracts (Turmeric, Aloe Vera, etc.): Some anti-inflammatory properties in vitro, but inconsistent evidence in pets.

Final Thoughts: What’s Worth It?

Among all supplements, omega-3 fatty acids have the strongest scientific backing for improving skin health, particularly in allergic and inflammatory conditions. Probiotics show some promise, but more research is needed. Vitamins can be beneficial in cases of deficiency, but routine supplementation is often unnecessary. Always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements to your pet’s diet, as improper use can do more harm than good.

References and Further Reading

• Schäfer, L., Thom, N. (2023) A placebo-controlled, double-blind study evaluating the effect of orally administered polyunsaturated fatty acids on the oclacitinib dose for atopic dogs. Veterinary Dermatology.
• Cauquil, M., Olivry, T. (2025) Immunomodulating Effects of Heat-Killed Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Healthy Dogs. Veterinary Sciences