Diamond Naturals Skin and Coat is a salmon-based dry dog food from Diamond Pet Foods, made without chicken or common grain fillers, and aimed at dogs with dull coats or sensitive skin. It is a reasonable mid-priced option for many adult dogs, but the formula you choose matters, and families that avoid grain-free diets or peas should read the label closely.
What Is Diamond Naturals Skin and Coat?
Diamond Pet Foods is a family-owned company founded in 1970 that makes its foods in the United States. The Skin and Coat line is the brand’s formula built around salmon. The salmon and potato recipe is listed as grain-free and chicken-free, with fish as the primary protein. Recipes can change, so confirm the exact ingredients on the bag you buy.
Key Ingredients
- Salmon and fish meal: These are the first ingredients and supply protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Potatoes, lentils and peas: They provide energy and fiber in place of grain.
- Canola oil and flaxseed: They add omega-6 fats that support skin and coat.
- Probiotics and added vitamins: The line includes a probiotic blend plus vitamin E, biotin and other coat nutrients.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Chicken-free, which helps dogs that react to chicken.
- Pro: Fish first, with a good source of omega-3 fats.
- Pro: Moderately priced compared with many premium brands.
- Con: Grain-free formulas with peas and lentils have been part of an FDA investigation into diet-associated heart disease (DCM) in dogs. The cause is not settled, so ask your vet if you are unsure.
- Con: Fish-based kibble may smell strong and may not suit dogs with fish allergies.
Recall History
Diamond Pet Foods has had recalls in the past, including aflatoxin contamination in 2005 and a salmonella-related recall of several dry formulas in 2012. Check the FDA’s recall list for current notices before you buy, and store kibble in a cool, dry place in its original bag.
Does It Really Help Skin and Coat?
Omega-3 and omega-6 fats can support a healthy coat, but itchy skin, hair loss and constant scratching are often caused by fleas, allergies or infections that food alone will not fix. See your vet if your dog’s skin problem does not improve in a few weeks. If you are comparing brands from the same company, see our Diamond Maintenance dog food review.
How to Switch Foods
- Mix a quarter of the new food with the old for a few days, then half, then three quarters.
- Feed by the bag’s chart and adjust to your dog’s body condition.
- Give it 6 to 8 weeks before judging coat changes.
For other options, read our list of the best dog foods without corn, wheat or soy.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about the best diet for your dog.
Bottom Line
Diamond Naturals Skin and Coat is a decent salmon-based, chicken-free kibble at a moderate price. It suits many dogs, but check the ingredient list, think about the grain-free question with your vet and look up recalls before you buy.
