By Royal Canin Scientific Communications

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One of the most prominent features of the Golden retriever is his spectacular coat. The coat is waterproof and protects the dog while swimming in cold water during a hunt. Beneath the coat, however, the Golden has very sensitive skin that is prone to hot spots, seborrhea, and skin infections. Proper nutrition and grooming can help to reduce the occurrence of skin issues and improve overall coat health.

To meet this goal the diet should provide adequate levels of both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids come from certain vegetable oils and contribute to the luster and softness of the hair coat. Inflammation of the skin (which is common in Goldens) can be reduced by certain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are found in fish oils. A unique complex of nutrients made up of four B vitamins and one amino acid has been shown to offer additional protection for the skin. This complex increases the production of a substance called ceramide that acts as the mortar between the skin cells. The effect of more ceramide production is an improvement of the skin's ability to act as a wall between irritants, allergens, and bacteria for the dog.