A shiny coat is a health signal for your pup. Dull, flaky fur usually means something inside needs support, often inflammation control, better skin-barrier nutrition, or missing micronutrients.
Here are seven everyday, scientifically studied nutrients that keep coats glossy and skin calm, what they do, where to find them, and how a multi-benefit chew can optionally fill gaps.
1. Omega-3s (especially DHA & EPA)
Cool systemic inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, reduce itching, and support hair follicle function. DHA also benefits brain, eyes, and heart.
Food sources: Fatty fish (sardines, salmon), algal oil (plant-based), some fortified kibbles.
Supplement note: Doctor Paws Super Chews uses algal oil (275 mg total, 100 mg DHA per 2 chews) for a sustainable, non-fish source.
2. Zinc
Zinc drives keratin and collagen production, key for skin repair and strong hair, so deficiencies can show up fast as flaky skin or shedding. You’ll find it in meats, organ meats, and eggs, but absorption varies—chelated (proteinate) forms are easier for dogs to use. Doctor Paws Super Chews delivers 5 mg of zinc proteinate in every 2-chew serving, covering that gap without overdoing it.
3. Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Helps dogs metabolize fats and form keratin, so fur grows softer and nails stay strong.
Food sources: Cooked egg yolks, liver, salmon, some veggies. Many complete diets include biotin, but stress, GI issues, or poor absorption can raise needs.
If it’s missing: Add a small biotin topper or choose a skin/coat formula that lists the actual milligram dose.
4. Vitamin E
Fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the skin’s natural oils from oxidation. Often paired with omega-3s to keep those fats stable.
Food sources: Plant oils (sunflower, safflower), nuts, seeds.
Label tip: Mixed tocopherols on an ingredient list = natural vitamin E. You’ll see them in Super Chew as a preservative/antioxidant, even if it’s not a headline dose.
5. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Supports collagen synthesis (great for skin and joints) and backs up antioxidant defenses. Dogs can synthesize some vitamin C, but illness, age, or stress can spike demand.
Food sources: Fruits and veggies (pureed or lightly cooked for digestibility), standalone vitamin C powders.
Supplement note: Super Chew includes 70 mg per 2 chews.
6. Copper
Teams up with iron for healthy blood and helps form connective tissue and pigment. Patchy coat color or poor texture can sometimes trace back to low copper intake.
Food sources: Liver, shellfish, whole grains.
Supplement note: 400 µg copper proteinate per 2 Super Chews, chelated for better uptake.
7. Antioxidant greens (e.g., chlorella)
Deliver chlorophyll, carotenoids, and trace minerals that help neutralise oxidative stress and gently support detox pathways. A balanced gut and immune system usually shows on the skin.
Food sources: Dark leafy greens (finely chopped/puréed), spirulina or chlorella powders.
Supplement note: Super Chew includes 70 mg chlorella per 2 chews.
Reality check: Protein quality, overall calories, and hydration still matter. Even the best supplement can’t outshine a poor base diet.
How to tell if your dog’s coat needs help
- Sudden dullness or extra shedding
- Persistent dandruff or “itchy hotspots”
- Slower healing of small scrapes
- Color changes (fading or patchy pigment)
Before you add anything, scan the current diet. Many commercial foods include some of these nutrients but doses vary, and bioavailability isn’t always clear.
Where a multi-benefit chew fits (without making it the main event)
A good chew or topper should complement your dog’s food, not replace balanced nutrition. If you want one product that covers skin/coat, joints, heart, and immune support, Doctor Paws Super Chew happens to tick those boxes:
- Joint comfort & mobility: 1,000 mg glucosamine + 50 mg chondroitin per 2 chews
- Skin & coat glow: DHA-rich algal oil, zinc, copper, vitamin C, chlorella
- Heart & muscle support: Taurine + L-carnitine (100 mg each)
- Immune resilience: Antioxidant blend (vitamin C, chlorella, zinc, copper)
- Digestive balance: Pea fiber acts like a natural prebiotic
Daily feeding guide
| Dog weight | Chews/day | 120-chew bag lasts* |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 50 lb | 1 | ~120 days |
| 50–75 lb | 2 | ~60 days |
| Over 75 lb | 3 | ~40 days |
*Assumes consistent daily use. Give with food; tear chews for tiny pups. Pregnant, lactating, or medicated dogs? Ask your vet.
Quality checklist for any supplement you pick
- NASC seal or similar third-party testing
- Transparent dosing (mg, not vague “proprietary blends”)
- No wheat, corn, soy, or artificial flavors
- Made in a facility that screens for contaminants and heavy metals
Takeaway
A glossy coat comes from inside support. Focus on these seven proven nutrients—Omega-3s, zinc, biotin, vitamin E, vitamin C, copper, and antioxidant greens—in absorbable forms your dog can truly use. Combine quality food with smart supplementation to calm inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and keep fur soft, shiny, and healthy.
For an easy daily boost that also supports joints, heart, and immunity, try Doctor Paws Super Chew and let your pup’s coat shine from nose to tail.