Can hemp seed oil help my dog’s itchy skin?

We often get asked if hemp seed oil will help with their dog’s itchy, dry or irritated skin. The answer is absolutely! Hemp seed oil can assist with many skin disorders that cause your dog to have itchy skin including eczema, dandruff and dermatitis by reducing inflammation and supporting the skin lipid barrier. 

Why does my dog have itchy skin?

Often, itching can be caused by dry or inflamed skin. The best way to tackle this is by fixing the problem from the inside out. Hemp seed oil contains essential fatty acids that act as natural anti-inflammatories in your dog’s body. They work on a cellular level creating a strong barrier to prevent water evaporation from the skin and therefore becoming dry and dehydrated. Also known as Omega-3, 6 and 9, these healthy fats work in harmony to tackle inflammation and support a healthy coat and skin. Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) is an example of a powerful Omega-6 that directly assists in preventing inflammatory conditions in the first place.

There are a number of other reasons why your dog may be itching. It could be due to allergies or irritation to grooming or cleaning products. Or it could be due to something more serious like fleas. If you suspect fleas, please book in to see your vet as soon as possible. We can’t have fleas!

How can I use hemp seed oil to help my dogs itchy skin

Hemp seed oil can be applied topically, however is best when taken orally. We recommend adding it directly to their food once a day. You can check out our very own Australian grown, cold-pressed hemp seed oil here.

Note: Fatty supplements such as hemp seed oil can be very helpful for dog skin issues, however if your dog’s itching does not improve or is suffering from severe constant itching and/or has broken skin, please visit your vet immediately.