Standard Process Canine Dermal Support: A Holistic Veterinarian’s Therapeutic Review

The following information is a summary and review based on Dr. Candy’s professional experience and recommendations. Any summary or statement has not been provided nor influenced by the manufacturer.

As a veterinarian with a focus on holistic healing, I understand the integral connection between a pet’s external appearance and their internal health. A shining, healthy coat and skin are often indicative of optimal internal well-being. The principle I emphasize in my practice is that the skin and coat condition are reflective windows to a pet’s overall health.

In my years of experience, I’ve become adept at identifying signs of health or underlying issues through a pet’s skin and coat. By observing these external indicators, I can often predict the state of a pet’s organ system health, age, hormone balance, food sensitivities, and nutritional status.

Much like how specific issues in our own skin can be indicative of our internal health, pets too showcase their well-being or ailments through their skin. Canine skin health is an area I’ve paid particular attention to, and over the years, I have found Standard Process Canine Dermal Support to be an invaluable resource in addressing and improving this.

This product is my preferred choice because it’s a comprehensive solution, offering a blend of essential nutrients that would otherwise require multiple supplements. Standard Process Canine Dermal Support is whole food-based, enriched with vital vitamins, minerals, and bioavailable proteins. The inclusion of healthy fats, collagens, and potent herbs ensures a holistic approach to tackling the root causes of skin issues.

For those looking to improve their pet’s canine dermal health, this supplement can be a game changer. It helps alleviate common skin and coat issues, driving towards the outcome of reduced shedding and a coat that is silky, shiny, soft, and glossy.

I continually educate pet parents on recognizing the signs that their pets could benefit from enhanced canine dermal support. An informed observation, coupled with the right nutrition and supplements, can significantly augment the internal and external health of your pet, ensuring not just a beautiful appearance, but more importantly, a vibrant and healthy life.

canine dermal support

Factors That Determine Skin and Coat Health in Dogs


In the realm of canine health, a dog’s skin and coat serve as indicators of their overall well-being. Various factors contribute to the condition of a dog’s skin and coat, ranging from their nutritional intake to their surrounding environment and internal health. Understanding these elements can empower pet owners to take necessary actions for optimal canine dermal health. Here’s a closer look at the key determining factors:

  • Vitamin Levels: Adequate vitamins are essential for skin vitality and a lustrous coat.
  • Systemic Inflammation: Inflammation can lead to skin irritation and hair loss.
  • Mineral Deficiencies: Essential minerals contribute to skin elasticity and coat health.
  • Allergies (Both Food & Environmental): Allergies can cause skin irritation, rashes, and excessive shedding.
  • Cancer: Certain cancers can affect skin and coat health.
  • Liver Health: The liver helps in detoxification, impacting skin clarity.
  • Medications: Some drugs can affect skin and coat conditions.
  • Grooming: Regular grooming promotes skin health and a shiny coat.
  • Immune System Strength: A strong immune system helps in combating skin infections and diseases.
  • Environmental Toxins: Toxins in the environment can lead to skin problems and coat dullness.
  • Digestive Health: A healthy digestive system supports nutrient absorption essential for skin and coat.
  • Hormone Balances: Hormonal imbalances can manifest in skin and coat issues.
  • Autoimmunity: Autoimmune diseases often have skin and coat symptoms.
  • Parasite Load: Parasites can damage the skin and coat, leading to various issues.
  • Exercise: Regular exercise improves blood circulation, benefiting the skin and coat.

Each of these factors plays a crucial role in determining the state of a dog’s skin and coat health. By paying close attention to these areas, pet owners can ensure their dogs not only look their best but are also at their healthiest from the inside out.

standard process canine dermal support

Common Signs That Your Pet Might Benefit from Canine Dermal Support

The health of a dog’s skin and coat is intricately linked to their overall well-being. Various visible issues can signify underlying health concerns. Observing and addressing these signs is pivotal, and interventions like canine dermal support can be essential. Below are common signs that your dog might require specialized dermal attention:

  • Acne on Chin: A sign of skin irritation or hormonal imbalance.
  • Excessive Shedding: This could indicate poor nutrition or an underlying skin health issue.
  • Hair Loss: Often a symptom of allergies, infections, or hormonal problems.
  • Dry Skin: Indicates potential dehydration or a lack of essential fatty acids.
  • Waxy Exudate: Can signify an infection or ear problems.
  • Skin/Coat Changing Colors: A potential sign of nutritional deficiencies or other health concerns.
  • Rough or Irregular Paw Pads: These could be caused by allergies or environmental irritants.
  • Scabs/Red Spots: Often indicative of skin infections or allergies.
  • Allergies: These manifest through skin irritations, rashes, or hair loss.
  • Itchiness: Commonly caused by allergies or parasitic infections.
  • Coat Thinning: This can signal poor nutrition or general health issues.
  • Skin Pink or Inflamed: Indicates potential skin irritation or inflammation.
  • Weird “Doggie” Smell: Often a sign of skin infections or inadequate grooming.
  • Swollen Lips or Eyelids: Can be a reaction to allergies or infections.
  • Butt Scooting/Licking: Indicates potential anal gland issues or parasites.
  • Licking of the Paws: This behavior often points to allergies or skin irritations.
  • Ear Infections: Identified by redness, odor, or discharge in the ears.
  • Hot Spots: These are acute, localized skin infections causing redness and irritation.
  • Skin that Bruises or Bleeds Easily: Indicates potential clotting issues or skin fragility.
  • Oily/Clumped Hairs: Can be a symptom of skin infections or hormonal imbalances.
  • Fast Growing/Brittle Nails: Indicates potential nutritional deficiencies or other health issues.
  • Shaved Hair Doesn’t Grow Back: This can be a sign of underlying hormonal or skin health issues.

Early detection and intervention, in consultation with a veterinarian, can enhance the skin and coat health of your pet. Canine dermal support is often a valuable tool in addressing and ameliorating these common issues.

itchy dog

Standard Process Dermatrophin PMG And How it Benefits Skin Health In Dogs

In the extensive landscape of canine skin health, Standard Process Dermatrophin PMG stands out as a significant supplement aimed at enhancing the skin’s vitality and resilience. This supplement is known for its efficacy in promoting healthy skin, thus contributing to the overall well-being of dogs.

Standard Process Dermatrophin PMG is formulated with a unique combination of ingredients that synergistically work to support the skin’s cellular health and functionality. The protomorphogen extracts, exclusive to Standard Process, are known to aid in cellular health, enhancing the skin’s ability to renew and repair itself. This, in turn, ensures that the skin remains healthy, vibrant, and resilient to various environmental and internal stressors.

Benefits of Standard Process Dermatrophin PMG for Skin Health in Dogs:

  1. Cellular Support: The supplement is renowned for promoting cellular health, ensuring that skin cells are rejuvenated and revitalized. This contributes to the maintenance of a healthy, radiant skin texture and tone.
  2. Reduced Inflammation: By neutralizing autoimmune response, Dermatrophin PMG aids in reducing skin inflammation. Dogs with sensitive skin or those prone to allergic reactions can particularly benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties.
  3. Enhanced Repair and Regeneration: The unique ingredients in this supplement promote the skin’s natural repair mechanisms. This is vital for dogs experiencing skin issues like dryness, scaling, or lesions, ensuring faster healing and recovery.
  4. Immune System Fortification: A strong immune system is integral to combatting skin infections and diseases. This supplement aids in neutralizing any autoimmune response, reducing the susceptibility to skin ailments.

Incorporating Standard Process Dermatrophin PMG into your dog’s supplement regimen can be a pivotal step towards enhanced skin health. Always consult with a veterinarian to ensure it aligns with your pet’s specific health needs and dietary requirements. This proactive approach will contribute significantly to not only a visually appealing coat but, more importantly, a healthier and happier pet.

Special Note About the Shedding Appearing Worse Before Getting Better:

Embarking on the journey of restoring your pet’s skin and coat health requires patience and understanding of the intricate healing process. The integumentary system is complex, composed of numerous layers of cells that need adequate time to regenerate and rejuvenate.

Healing Timeline

It is typically observed that tangible results begin to manifest within a minimum of 4 weeks. However, for older pets, a more extended period, sometimes up to 8 weeks, may be needed to witness significant improvements. This duration is crucial for the thorough regeneration of skin cells and restoration of the coat’s vitality.

Healing Process Dynamics

It’s not uncommon for pet owners to notice an apparent regression in the condition of their pet’s skin and coat during the initial stages of the healing journey. This “it gets worse before it gets better” phenomenon is a natural aspect of the healing process. When the body starts receiving the essential nutrition it craves, the cycle of hair growth accelerates.

Temporary Intense Shedding

Between the 2-4 weeks mark, pet owners might observe an intense shedding phase. Although it might seem alarming, this is a positive indication of the underlying cellular activity geared towards renewal. It underscores the initiation of the process where old, damaged hairs are shed to make way for the new, healthier ones.

Perseverance Pays Off

Navigating through this phase requires perseverance. The transient increase in shedding, and consequently in vacuuming, is a small price to pay for the holistic enhancement in your pet’s overall health. The transformation that unfolds post this phase is marked by a revitalized, lustrous coat, and improved skin health, reflective of the internal well-being of your pet.

Embarking on this journey necessitates patience and persistence. Rest assured, every step taken towards enhancing your pet’s nutrition and canine dermal support is a stride towards a healthier, happier, and more vibrant pet. Each phase of the healing process is integral, paving the way for a revitalized and resilient skin and coat.

standard process dermal support

Common Canine Dermal Support Suggested Uses:

  • Allergies
  • Anal Gland Issues
  • Excessive Shedding
  • Thyroid Disease
  • Cushing’s Syndrome
  • Skin Cancer
  • Show Animals

Ingredients: Bovine liver, L-glutamine, Silybum marianum, bovine kidney, defatted wheat germ, alfalfa juice, Emblica officinalis, carrot (root), fat soluble extract (from alfalfa [whole plant], sunflower [seed], carrot (root), Tillandsia usneoides, buckwheat [leaf and seed], and pea [vine]), bovine and ovine spleen, bovine adrenal PMG™ extract, Strombus gigas, calcium lactate, bovine liver fat extract, black currant juice, Carthamus tinctorius, bovine liver PMG™ extract, nutritional yeast, mushroom, porcine jejunum, porcine stomach, betaine hydrochloride, bovine parotid PMG™ extract, para-aminobenzoate, beet leaf juice, beet root, oat flour, porcine brain, bovine adrenal Cytosol™ extract, purified bovine bile salts, bone meal, Taraxacum officinale, and inositol.

Individual Ingredient Benefits of Standard Process Dermal Support

Bovine LiverPacked with natural protein and connective tissues required for skin and hair formation. Boosts detoxification pathways to help remove systemic inflammation. Provides vitamin A, vitamin B complex, antioxidants, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus
L-glutamineA preferred energy source for the cells of the digestive tract. Supports full digestion, and proper absorption of materials and aids in healing leaky gut syndrome.
Silybum marianum (Milk Thistle)Increases blood flow through the liver for detoxification which removes inflammation and histamines. Contributes to important natural minerals and helps protect the cells of the liver.
Bovine KidneyHelps to balance fluid levels, inflammation, and electrolytes. Improves additional removal of systemic inflammation.
Defatted Wheat GermLots of vitamins and minerals. The fat portion is removed to support product freshness and prevent fatty acid decay. Dense in vitamin E complexes. A large supply of antioxidants help heal the skin and help to prevent skin cell injury.
Alfalfa JuiceContains natural protein and calcium. Much needed substances for repairing skin and preventing secondary skin infections from bacteria and fungi. Manganese helps to create strong connective tissues important in the cell layers and structure of skin.
Emblica officinalis (Indian Gooseberry)Very high in vitamin C complex to help repair and regenerate healthy skin cells. Has natural anti-inflammatory properties. May slow the growth of skin cancers. Highly valued in ayurvedic medicine.
CarrotContains large quantities of natural vitamin A, helps protect skin cells against damage. Antioxidants promote cellular healing and repair.
Alfalfa (Fat Soluble Extract)Contributes vitamin A, E, and K complexes. Removes inflammation and improves cell regeneration.
Sunflower SeedContains powerful antioxidants to protect cells from UV damage. High in pure plant-based protein, hearty dose of fiber, and healthy fats for healthy hair.
Tillandsia usneoides (Spanish Moss)Naturally occurring minerals, B vitamins, chlorophyll speeds up healing. It has been used topically for thousands of years as a topical skin treatment to promote healing and prevent infections.
Buckwheat Leaf SeedPacked with inflammation-soothing antioxidants, helps to strengthen and protect veins, arteries, and capillaries. Contains copper, zinc, iron, selenium, vitamin B, manganese, and magnesium.
Pea VineEnergy packed with a natural anti-inflammatory effect. Protects circulation and blood vessel health. Vitamin E helps heal skin damage.
Bovine & Ovine SpleenVery beneficial in the case of skin injury and moderate bleeding. Provides the cellular material to create red and white blood cells.
Bovine Adrenal PMG™ ExtractBalances stress hormones such as cortisol, which causes thin skin, muscle weakness, and decreased immunity. This boosts all of these natural healthy characteristics, balances blood sugar, and contributes vitamin C complex.
Perna canaliculus (Green-lipped muscle)Acts like a natural non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID). Stops the spread of inflammation.
Calcium LactateBioavailable form of calcium. Needed in the formation of tissue structure, hair production, and the immune system.
Bovine Liver Fat ExtractProven to increase blood flow to the liver and to increase the number of liver cells. May also speed the removal of histamine from the bloodstream.
Black Currant JuiceSupplies multiple antioxidants and full complex vitamin C. Has properties that are antibacterial, antiviral, and has been proven to slow the growth of cancer.
Carthamus tintorius (Safflower)Provides healthy fats, fat soluble vitamins, and contains an active component that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Bovine Liver PMG™ ExtractBoosts the health of liver cells by providing the exact proteins needed to repair and optimize function. Improves body detox through the liver. Also neutralizes a potential autoimmune component on the liver.
Nutritional YeastContains essential minerals for the enzymatic production of multiple skin pathways. Provides vitamin B complex, chromium, and zinc.
MushroomPacked with antioxidants, provides whole complex vitamin C. Speeds wound healing, slows or prevents the growth of skin cancers.
Porcine JejunumImproves digestion, decreases inflammation in the pancreas and intestines. Improves protein digestion and absorption to collect materials for healthy skin cells.
MaltodextrinCan balance the body’s production of energy and modify glucose vs fat derived metabolism.
Porcine StomachImproves digestion, helps to break down proteins before they are absorbed by your pet’s body. Also heals the digestive tract mucous membranes.
Betaine HydrochlorideActs as an acid in the stomach, contributing to protein digestion. Has other reactions that help to balance proper GI pH.
Bovine Parotid PMG™ ExtractHelps balance hormones and supports digestion of starches.
Para-aminobenzoateSupports the stability of gut microbiome to optimize digestion.
Beet Leaf JuiceExtremely high in iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
Oat FlourSource of vitamin A for immune system boost and healthy cell regeneration. Also provides soluble fiber which helps balance blood sugar.
Porcine BrainSource of healthy fats needed to regenerate new cells. Also protects the nervous system.
Bovine Adrenal Cytosol ExtractProvides whole vitamin C complex needed for all epithelial cells. Supports healthy collagen and helps to balance stress hormones.
Purified Bovine Bile SaltsStimulates the liver’s secretion of bile, which optimizes digestion. Improves bioavailability of nutrients and contributes to a healthy GI pH.
Bone MealLarge source of calcium and healthy fats. Supports healthy collagen production.
Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion)A natural diuretic which helps detoxification of the body.
InositolEvidence shows that it balances neurotransmitters that contribute to mood, improves glucose movement, lowers blood fat levels, and decreases blood pressure.
standard process dermal support

Canine Dermal Support Complementary Supplements:

Important Mineral Measurements:

  • Zinc 56 mcg / 1/2 teaspoon

Supplement Dosing Chart:

1-10 lbs1/8 teaspoon once per day
11-20 lbs1/8 teaspoon twice per day
21-40 lbs¼ teaspoon twice per day
41-60 lbs½ teaspoon twice per day
61-80 lbs¾ teaspoon twice per day
> 80 lbs1 teaspoon twice per day

Important Supplement Information:

  • These supplements should all be given twice a day.
  • Most clients sprinkle it on their pet’s food.
  • Because these supplements are made from whole foods, and not chemicals, doses are highly palatable.  In fact, it often seems like animals instinctively know what their body needs and gobble it up quickly.

When beginning supplementation, I recommend the following taper-up process. This is only because these ingredients are so nutrient-dense. We can decrease your pet’s adjustment period, which may result in a soft stool. This adjustment phase is generally 1-2 days long and normal consistency of stool will return to normal without treatment.

  • WEEK 1                1/8 teaspoon
  • WEEK 2                ¼ teaspoon
  • WEEK 3                ½ teaspoon
  • WEEK 4                1 teaspoon

Once you get to your pet’s maintenance dose, based on the dosage chart, continue at this dose.

For example: If your pet weighs 35 lbs –

  • WEEK 1                1/8 teaspoon
  • WEEK 2                ¼ teaspoon
  • WEEK 3                Stay at ¼ teaspoon as a maintenance therapeutic dose

Supplement Size Variations

SizeSKU
30gA1300
125gA1350

Standard Process Canine Dermal Support Side Effects

Since these nutritional supplements are made from food, there is little to no risk of side effects. The only side effect I’ve ever seen is diarrhea if the pet gets a gigantic dose. For example, if a pet eats a whole bottle. If I had a dollar for every time one of my pets ate a whole bottle, I’d have a pretty full piggy bank. Since pets love these products so much, we recommend keeping them in a cabinet or someplace that your pet cannot get to.

How do I order Standard Process Supplements? 

Ordering Standard Process supplements online is simple and secure. Dr. Candy Akers has an authorized premier practitioner account.  You can buy all of your favorite products online, with no exam, consultation or approval required. Check out the store below and be sure to bookmark the page so you can come back anytime!

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Have More Questions about Standard Process Supplements?

Click here to check out our commonly asked questions about Standard Process Supplements and how to administer them to your pet.

A Note From the Manufacturer: 

buy standard process online

“Developed for patients with hypersensitivities, Standard Process Dermal Support is extremely beneficial for dogs with allergies. This product contains a variety of whole food derived nutrients along with tissue extracts and concentrates combined with botanical ingredients. The multi-focused support provided by this product is directed at a number of key organs and glands that have a central role in the allergic process. These glands and organs include the liver, small intestine, and adrenal glands. Each of these structures has variable levels of dysfunction in the other organ systems. Optimizing function of these individual areas can lead to a reduction of immune activation, allergen exposure, and reduction of immune reactive substances.

Dermal support has also been beneficial in managing appropriate healing of the skin following a variety of skin injuries. Topical management of these conditions should be combined with the use of this product to facilitate wound repair.

Canine Dermal Support is very effective and safe to administer to cats.

Nutrition plays a major role in skin health, which is a result of a well-functioning, synchronized effort by tissues and organs in the body. Canine Dermal Support was developed for patients with hypersensitivities. This product contains whole-food ingredients to help support and maintain the skin’s ability to withstand the effects of environmental exposure to toxins, antigens, and microorganisms. The multi-focused support provided by this product is directed at a number of key organs and glands that have a central role in the allergic process. The primary focus is on the adrenal glands, liver and small intestine. These areas are known to directly or indirectly influence immune function and skin health.”

Check out our other articles for even more knowledge to keep your pet healthy and happy!

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Dr. Candy Akers, DVM

Holistic Veterinarian, Veterinary Clinic Owner, Veterinary Medical Supervisory Board Leader, Certified Raw Dog Food Nutrition Specialist, and Author Dr. Candy completed her undergraduate studies at The University of Delaware and graduated veterinary school in 2009 from Oklahoma State University. In high school, she was drawn to wildlife rehabilitation. Wildlife rehab gave her unparalleled experience in animal healing in a field that has limited resources and a wide variety of conditions to treat. Before vet school, Dr. Akers spent two years working full time providing oil spill response for wildlife all over the country. Since graduating with her Degree of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2009, Dr. Candy has specialized in companion animal nutrition. Extensive education in nutrition has made her a firm believer in species specific-biologically appropriate diets. One of her passions is educating pet parents about the natural alternatives that actually work. She brings the best of holistic health and conventional medicine together in a unique approach to pet health. This approach is often applied to chronic diseases, allergies, and autoimmune conditions. She started her own veterinary practice 9 years ago in Colorado. Overall, she has dedicated her entire life to improving the health and happiness of animals everywhere.

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