There are rare causes of dandruff that are inherited or the cause is unknown. Examples include seborrhea, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. If routine efforts to control dandruff in your dog fail, you should consult a veterinary dermatologist.

Flakes from the surface of the skin may not be skin cells. Substances applied to the skin which dry and flake may mimic dandruff. Shampoos, conditioners, and other skin cosmetics should be thoroughly rinsed after application to the skin. Keep in mind, too, that the presence of itching can indicate other factors such as fleas, lice or mange mites.

If your dog has white skin flakes around the neck, back or rump, he's probably got dandruff and there are some things that you can do. First, do not use shampoos made for human beings on your pet, especially not baby shampoos or medicated shampoos. A dog's skin has different ph level than human skin, so the chemicals in people shampoo can actually harm your pet's skin. Instead, try using dry skin and seborrhea shampoos especially for dogs. These shampoos contain sulfur or salicylic acid. Be sure to follow the directions on the label.

Make sure that you thoroughly rinse your dog after shampooing. The shampoo residue can cause your dog to itch and scratch. Fatty acid supplements such as Drs. Foster & Smith Vitacaps or Vitacoat and oatmeal shampoos could be helpful for the coat and for the removal of dander.

If your dog continues itching, scratching, whimpering, or is otherwise in distress, please get your pet to the veterinarian. The presence of dandruff can sometimes indicate that the onset of serious health problems such as skin infections, allergies or an invasion of nasty parasites.

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