dogs with natural dog products for skin health

5 Natural Ingredients That Support Skin Health in Dogs: Caring for Dog Skin Naturally

When it comes to keeping our dogs healthy and comfortable, one of the most important areas to focus on is dog skin health. A shiny coat and smooth, irritation-free skin aren’t just signs of good grooming—they reflect your dog’s overall wellbeing. Like humans, dogs can experience skin issues such as itching, allergies, dryness, and hot spots, often caused by both external triggers and internal imbalances, especially in the gut.At Nourish Pet Co, we believe in caring for skin using natural, science-backed ingredients that work in harmony with your pet’s body. Nature provides us with powerful plant-based solutions that are gentle, effective, and safe. Below are five of our favourite ingredients used in our topical products to support and maintain healthy, nourished skin.

1. Calendula: The Dog Skin Soothing Superstar

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a calming botanical used for centuries to treat wounds and skin inflammation. Its natural antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for soothing irritated skin. It can help relieve hot spots, minor cuts, allergic reactions, and general redness or discomfort. It is a key ingredient in both our Hot Spot Gel and Derma Cream!

All plants were proven to have antibacterial and antifungal effects of a rather broad spectrum including antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This makes them an interesting new option for the treatment of pyoderma, otitis externa, infected wounds and dermatophytosis. Calendula (Marigold)... showed wound-healing properties and are thus promising candidates in line to fill the therapeutic gap in canine wound-healing agents.

Milena Tresch, Meike Mevissen, Hannah Ayrle, Matthias Melzig, Petra Roosje & Michael Walkenhorst

2. Manuka Honey: A Healing Elixir

Sourced from the native Manuka tree in New Zealand, Manuka honey is well-known for its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. It helps treat mild skin infections, hydrate dry patches, and promote faster healing of minor wounds and irritations. It’s a fantastic addition to any routine focused on improving skin health. This is why it is a key ingredient in our Hot Spot Gel! 

"Clinical trials have shown that Manuka Honey can successfully eradicate literally hundreds of strains of bacteria, including certain antibiotic-resistant varieties. 

Matthew Johnston, Michael McBride, Divakar Dahiya, Richard Owusu-Apenten & Poonam Singh Nigam

3. Gotu Kola: The Herb of Rejuvenation

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a skin-loving herb used for promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Rich in compounds that stimulate collagen production and skin regeneration, it’s especially useful for dogs suffering from chronic dryness, itching, or skin barrier issues. Gotu Kola supports stronger, more resilient skin over time, making it the perfect ingredient in our Derma Cream to help relieve dry and itchy skin! 

4. Castor Oil: The Unsung Hero

Castor oil is a deeply hydrating ingredient with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps relieve itching, soothe dry and flaky dog skin, and prevent irritation from worsening. Thanks to its high fatty acid content, castor oil locks in moisture and restores softness and elasticity to the coat and skin. Found in our Derma Cream

5. Aloe Vera: Nature's Soothing Balm

Aloe vera has long been trusted for its cooling, calming properties, and it’s one of the best ingredients for soothing inflamed dog skin. Whether your dog is dealing with hot spots, sunburn, or seasonal allergies, aloe vera delivers fast relief from discomfort while helping prevent infection and support healing. which is why it is our hero ingredient in our Hot Spot Gel! 

Skin Issues Stem From Within 

Many dog skin issues are actually rooted in the gut. When the gut is out of balance—due to poor diet, food sensitivities, antibiotics, or stress—it can lead to inflammation throughout the body, including the skin. This is because around 70% of the immune system resides in the gut, and when the gut microbiome is compromised, it can trigger an overactive immune response. This often shows up as itchy skin, rashes, hot spots, or chronic dryness. A leaky or inflamed gut can also allow toxins, undigested food particles, and allergens to enter the bloodstream, which further contributes to skin irritation and allergic reactions. Supporting gut health with prebiotics, probiotics, and wholefood nutrition is key to restoring balance and reducing skin flare-ups from the inside out.

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Give your dog the best in natural dog care—because they deserve to feel good in their skin, inside and out.