Hi

When I go to ringcraft and when I went to our first show on Saturday, Lola developed very flaky skin by the time we arrived. I thought it was dnadruff at first but it seemed to appear before our eyes and as fast as we moved it, more appeared. A chap who bred Dachsunds said it was nerves. This seems possible as her coat was fine when we set off and again when we had been home for a while. Can anyone help please :)
Annieee :)

My sister who had Newfies aways said that her dogs had an attack of dandruff every time they went to a show.

Yes, it is true.  My BC used to go scurfy at a show, she has either grown out of it now or she is no longer stressed. I swear she sets off to a show with a lovely glossy coat, by the time we get in the ring it is matt.  I am not sure if that is stress related either. :(

If it is stress, how about trying some Rescue Remedy?  a few drops will help calm the nerves.

Hi Molly - what is rescue remedy and can I get it online? Thanks :)

You can get Rescue Remedy from most Health Food Stores.  It is made I think by Bach.  It is really worth giving it a try Annieee.  It is also good to calm your nerves.  I used it before my driving test!!!!.  Have used it on my young dogs at their first shows and it does relax them.  Give a few drops before you set off in the morning and then a few more when you arrive at the show.  Congratulations on your success yesterday.  When is your next show??

I've just got mine from Sainsburys

Rose

Sometimes increasing the fat content in the diet can help (chicken fat for instance) or for a short term coverup wipe with a damp towel or flannel, whatever you do don't brush while at a show as this makes it appear to snow :)

It is always worse if your Dobe is moulting or just about to - I sometimes break open evening primrose capsules and rub them into the coat/skin but this cannot be done too close to a show as, 1) it is foreign substance in coat and 2) it collects an awful lot of dust a day or so later even if it is still very shiny :D

Thanks for the tips :) It's nice to know I'm not the only one with this problem. It seems to be a case of cure one problem and start the next :)

Christine - The dremelling is going really well. I can do three of Lola's feet on my own but then I need reinforcement. They are gradually getting shorter and look quite smart now. The funny thing is, now Lola gets the extra attention, George (BassettxDalmation) sits down to have a pedicure too. He has made a very good role model as he seems to enjoy it :D
Annieee :)

it is nerves my lab does it when she gets upset, quick wipe with a baby wipe will get most of it off, but don't brush at the show or it will worsen