Dry, itchy skin

Question
I have 2 labs. They both suffer from dry, itchy, flaky skin. They scratch constantly, particularly at night. I have taken them to the vet and he assures me that they do not have allergies. I have not switched their food or changed the carpet in my home. I have not added any new pets to my home.

A friend of mine suggested I add fish oil to their diet or possibly change their food to a lamb and rice formula. They currently eat Iams Large breed weight control formula.

I have even tried Benadryl at night so that I may sleep. It hasn't helped.

Please help me if you know any secrets.

Thank you,

Tammy

Answer
Most Labs love to eat, and too many are allowed to eat themselves to an early death.  A weight control formula may be as good a choice as any.  Part of the premium you pay for Iam's is to guarantee your dog is getting enough fat in its diet to keep its skin and coat in good shape.  If anything, Iam's is too high in fat.  I would not add more fat to the diet, although sometimes dogs eating a cheaper chow need it.  Here is a great guide to keeping your dogs lean for a longer active life, http://www.purina.com/dogs/nutrition.asp?article=292

I would look at other things that may be drying their skin.  How often are you bathing them?  They should be able to go indefinitely without a bath if you are brushing them at least a couple of times a week.  I got 2 Labs the end of last year, and I haven't given either a bath yet.  Both are out in public frequently and around people that would say something if I was neglecting an odor problem.  I use a slicker brush part of the time to control shedding.  If you must bathe them, use dog shampoo, and  be very careful to rinse the last bit of it out.  Perhaps use a conditioner.  What else is your dog exposed to that might dry its skin?  My friend recently discovered her Lab is having trouble with dry skin due to chlorinated pool water.  Some people report good luck with Alpha Keri lotion.