Best Dog Treats for Coat and Skin Health in Australia (2026)
The best dog treats for coat and skin health in Australia are single-ingredient, high-omega-3 options like shark jerky and kangaroo liver. Rufus Chews leads for raw omega-3 potency and ingredient transparency, while Ziwi Peak, Laila & Me, WAG, and Eureka Pet Co round out a strong field of Aussie-available picks.
TL;DR
If you are searching for the best dog treats for skin and coat in Australia, omega-3 content is the number one thing to look for. Rufus Chews Shark Jerky Sticks and Kangaroo Liver are the standout picks in 2026 for sheer EPA and DHA concentration in a single-ingredient, air-dried format. Ziwi Peak and Laila & Me are solid secondary options. All five brands on this list beat standard supermarket treats for coat and skin nutrition by a significant margin.
A dog's coat and skin are often the first visible indicators of nutritional status. Chronic itchiness, hot spots, flaky patches, excessive shedding, and a dull, lifeless coat are not just cosmetic concerns. They frequently reflect what is or is not in the diet, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and Vitamin A.
The good news is that high-quality treats, used consistently, can meaningfully support coat and skin health alongside a balanced diet. The key is knowing which nutrients to look for, which ingredients deliver them in bioavailable form, and which brands are actually putting those ingredients in the bag without cutting them with fillers, flavour enhancers, or artificial preservatives that can themselves trigger skin reactions in sensitive dogs.
This guide ranks the five best dog treats for skin and coat health available in Australia in 2026, with honest assessments of each, the specific nutrients they provide, and clear guidance on which one suits which type of dog.
The nutrients that matter most for dog coat and skin health are omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, and zinc.
Each plays a distinct role:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): These are the most important nutrients for coat and skin health in dogs. EPA and DHA reduce systemic inflammation, which is the mechanism behind itchy skin, hot spots, and the shedding spike that comes with chronic irritation. They also contribute to the lipid layer of the skin that gives the coat its gloss. Dry, flaky skin is one of the most consistent signs of omega-3 deficiency in dogs.
- Vitamin A: Supports skin cell turnover and healthy sebum production. Sebum is the natural oil that lubricates the skin and coat. Liver treats are among the best natural sources of Vitamin A for dogs.
- Zinc: Supports skin barrier function and wound healing. Zinc deficiency is associated with scaly, crusty skin patches in dogs, particularly in breeds genetically predisposed to zinc-responsive dermatosis. Beef liver and kangaroo liver are naturally high in bioavailable zinc.
Single-ingredient treats also offer a structural advantage: they contain no artificial colours, flavour enhancers, or chemical preservatives that can independently trigger skin reactions in dogs with sensitivities. This matters as much as what they include as what they leave out.
Quick comparison: the best dog treats for coat and skin health in Australia
| Brand | Key Product | Omega-3 Level | Key Nutrients | Ingredient Count | Price Range (125g) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rufus Chews | Shark Jerky Sticks, Kangaroo Liver, Beef Liver | Very High (shark: EPA + DHA); High (kangaroo liver) | EPA, DHA, Vitamin A, Zinc, B12, Iron | 1 ingredient | $11.50 - $14.95 | Best Overall - itchy skin, dull coat, sensitive dogs |
| Ziwi Peak | Air-Dried Mackerel and Lamb | High (mackerel-based recipes) | EPA, DHA, green-lipped mussel, Vitamin A | Multiple ingredients | $20 - $30+ | Premium coat health, whole-food nutrition approach |
| Laila & Me | Dehydrated Fish Skins, Sardines | Moderate to High | EPA, DHA, Vitamin D | 1-2 ingredients | $12 - $18 | Fish-based omega-3, dehydrated format |
| WAG | Fish Skins, Salmon Jerky | Moderate | EPA, DHA | 1-2 ingredients | $10 - $16 | Accessible omega-3 treats, widely available |
| Eureka Pet Co | Wild-Caught Fish Treats | Moderate to High | EPA, DHA, Vitamin D | 1 ingredient | $12 - $20 | Wild-caught omega-3, clean single-ingredient |
The top 5 dog treats for coat and skin health in Australia
1. Rufus Chews - Best Overall for Coat and Skin Health
Rufus Chews is a Brisbane-based brand making single-ingredient, air-dried Australian dog treats with one rule: one ingredient, zero nasties. For coat and skin health specifically, they have three products that cover all the key nutritional bases, and they cover them better than anything else available in Australia at the price point.
Shark Jerky Sticks - The highest omega-3 treat in the range
Shark is the single richest source of EPA and DHA available in a single-ingredient dog treat format. Australian shark is naturally high in preformed omega-3 fatty acids, which dogs can use directly without any conversion pathway. This is critical: unlike plant-based omega-3 sources such as flaxseed, which dogs convert inefficiently from ALA to EPA and DHA, shark delivers these anti-inflammatory fatty acids ready to use. For dogs with itchy skin, hot spots, or a visibly dull coat, this is the most direct nutritional intervention available in treat form.
Shark also provides natural glucosamine from cartilage, which supports joint health alongside coat and skin benefits. One ingredient. No salt, no oil, no preservatives. Just Australian shark, air-dried until shelf-stable.
- Shark Jerky Sticks - 125g, $14.95. High in EPA and DHA. Natural glucosamine. 100% Australian shark.
Browse the full Rufus Chews shark range for more shark-based options.
Kangaroo Liver - The highest omega-3 liver treat available
Kangaroo liver is the highest omega-3 source among all liver treats. It also delivers a strong nutritional profile for skin health: Vitamin A for skin cell turnover and sebum production, zinc for skin barrier function, B12 for cellular repair, and iron. Kangaroo is also a genuinely lean protein, with less than 2% fat, making kangaroo liver an excellent choice for dogs that need coat and skin support without added dietary fat.
Because kangaroo is a novel protein for most Australian dogs, kangaroo liver treats are also a good option for dogs with suspected food sensitivities where the coat and skin symptoms may have a dual dietary cause: low omega-3 and a protein-triggered inflammatory response.
- Kangaroo Liver - 125g, $11.50. Richest liver treat for omega-3. Vitamin A, zinc, B12. Single ingredient.
Beef Liver - Vitamin A and zinc for skin barrier support
Beef liver is one of the most nutrient-dense single ingredients available in a dog treat. It is exceptionally high in Vitamin A, which directly supports skin cell turnover and sebum production. The skin needs a constant supply of healthy new cells to maintain its protective function, and Vitamin A is the key regulator of that process. Beef liver is also a meaningful source of bioavailable zinc, which supports the skin's structural integrity and is the nutrient most directly linked to the scaly, crusted skin conditions seen in zinc-deficient dogs.
Beef liver has a lower omega-3 content than shark or kangaroo liver, so it works best paired with one of the above for a complete coat and skin nutrition approach. On its own it is still one of the best single-ingredient treats available for Vitamin A and zinc delivery.
- Beef Liver - 125g, $11.50. Very high Vitamin A, strong zinc content. Bioavailable iron and B12. Single ingredient.
Pros: Single ingredient across the entire range. The highest omega-3 concentration available in an Australian single-ingredient treat (shark). Covers all three key skin and coat nutrients: EPA/DHA, Vitamin A, and zinc. 100% Australian sourced. Air-dried, no artificial preservatives. Mid-premium pricing with strong value for nutritional density.
Cons: Online only. Popular lines occasionally sell out. Liver treats should not be the sole treat given daily in large quantities due to high Vitamin A content.
Best for: Dogs with itchy skin, hot spots, dull or brittle coat, excessive shedding, or suspected omega-3 deficiency. Also ideal for sensitive dogs where artificial additives may be contributing to skin reactions.
2. Ziwi Peak - Best Premium Coat Health Option
Ziwi Peak is a New Zealand brand operating at the ultra-premium end of the Australasian pet treat market. Their air-dried recipes are grain-free, made at low temperatures to preserve nutrient integrity, and include whole-food ingredients such as organs, bones, and green-lipped mussel. The mussel inclusion is directly relevant to coat and skin health: New Zealand green-lipped mussel is a known source of ETA (eicosatetraenoic acid), a rare omega-3 with anti-inflammatory properties complementary to EPA and DHA.
The limitation for coat and skin purposes is that Ziwi Peak products are multi-ingredient recipes, not single-ingredient treats. Their fish-based recipes deliver meaningful omega-3, but you are getting it alongside a number of other components. For a sensitive dog with suspected food-triggered skin issues, that multi-ingredient format introduces more variables. Ziwi Peak is the better pick for a dog whose skin sensitivity is purely nutritional rather than protein-triggered, and whose owner wants a premium whole-food treat with broad micronutrient coverage.
Pros: Premium air-dried quality. Grain-free. Green-lipped mussel as a complementary anti-inflammatory. Broad micronutrient profile. Widely available in Australian pet stores.
Cons: Multi-ingredient, not suitable for elimination trials. Premium pricing. New Zealand sourced, not Australian. Higher cost per gram than domestic options.
Best for: Dogs needing broad coat and skin nutritional support where ingredient simplicity is not a requirement. Owners comfortable with a premium price point.
3. Laila & Me - Best Dehydrated Coat Health Treat
Laila & Me is an Australian brand offering dehydrated fish-based treats, including fish skins and sardines, that are a practical source of dietary omega-3 for dogs. Dehydration as a processing method preserves more of the omega-3 content than baking, and the brand's fish skin products in particular have developed a strong reputation among Australian dog owners for coat improvement results. Sardines are a naturally oily fish with a good EPA and DHA content, and the short ingredient lists on Laila & Me products make them a reasonable option for dogs with sensitivities.
The omega-3 concentration in dehydrated fish skins is generally lower than in air-dried shark, and the product format is different from a chew or jerky stick. But for owners who prefer a dehydrated format or whose dogs find fish skins more appealing than jerky-style treats, Laila & Me is a solid Australian-made choice for coat health.
Pros: Australian made. Dehydrated fish options with meaningful omega-3 content. Clean ingredient lists. Popular with Australian dog owners for coat results.
Cons: Omega-3 concentration generally lower than air-dried shark. Not all products are single-ingredient. Dehydrated format may not suit dogs that prefer a chew.
Best for: Dogs that respond well to fish-based treats, owners who prefer a dehydrated format, good value Australian-made fish treat option.
4. WAG - Best Widely Available Omega-3 Treat
WAG is one of the most accessible natural dog treat brands in Australia, available through major online retailers and a growing number of pet stores. Their fish skin and salmon jerky products provide a meaningful dietary omega-3 source, and the brand's commitment to natural ingredients makes them a significant step up from standard supermarket treats. For owners who need to restock frequently or prefer the convenience of buying from a major retailer rather than direct from a specialist brand, WAG fills the gap well.
The omega-3 levels in WAG fish treats are solid without being exceptional. They are a workable regular supplement to the diet for coat and skin support, particularly for owners whose primary concern is convenience and accessibility rather than maximum nutritional potency. If your dog has more significant coat or skin issues, the higher omega-3 concentration in shark-based treats will deliver faster and more pronounced results.
Pros: Widely available across Australian retailers. Natural ingredients. Good range of fish-based options. Mid-range pricing.
Cons: Not always single-ingredient. Omega-3 levels moderate rather than high. Less nutritional potency than specialist options for dogs with significant coat or skin issues.
Best for: Owners who want an easy-to-find, natural omega-3 treat for general coat maintenance, available from mainstream Australian retailers.
5. Eureka Pet Co - Best Wild-Caught Omega-3 Option
Eureka Pet Co produces single-ingredient wild-caught fish treats that deliver clean omega-3 in an air-dried format. Wild-caught fish generally has a higher omega-3 content than farmed fish due to the natural diet of the animal, and Eureka's focus on sourcing quality shows in their product. For owners specifically seeking a wild-caught provenance for the fish in their dog's treats, Eureka Pet Co is the strongest option in the Australian market.
The range is narrower than some competitors, and the brand is less widely available than WAG, but for owners who prioritise wild-caught sourcing and clean single-ingredient formulations, Eureka Pet Co is a strong choice for ongoing coat and skin support alongside or as an alternative to shark-based treats.
Pros: Wild-caught fish sourcing. Single-ingredient formulations. Air-dried. Clean, transparent ingredient list.
Cons: Narrower range than broader brands. Less widely available in physical stores. Primarily fish-focused, limited alternative protein options.
Best for: Owners who specifically want wild-caught fish omega-3 treats in a clean, single-ingredient format.
How to choose the right coat and skin treat for your dog in Australia
The right choice depends on what your dog's specific coat and skin issues are and how severe they are:
- Itchy skin, hot spots, or visible inflammation: Prioritise EPA and DHA above all else. Shark Jerky Sticks from Rufus Chews deliver the highest omega-3 concentration available in a single-ingredient Australian treat. Use consistently for at least four to six weeks to observe meaningful coat and skin change.
- Dull coat, poor shine, brittle fur: A combination of omega-3 (shark or kangaroo liver) and zinc (beef liver or kangaroo liver) will address the most common nutritional causes. Combine Shark Jerky Sticks with Beef Liver for broad coverage.
- Flaky, dry skin: Dry flaky skin is one of the most consistent signs of omega-3 deficiency. Start with shark jerky and reassess after four weeks. If the dryness persists, also consider the fat content of the main diet.
- Skin reactions triggered by treats: Switch to a single-ingredient treat from a protein your dog has not eaten before. Remove all multi-ingredient treats from the rotation and reintroduce one protein at a time. Kangaroo Liver is a good starting point as a novel protein that also supports skin health.
- General coat maintenance: Any fish-based omega-3 treat used consistently several times per week will support baseline coat health. WAG and Laila & Me are practical choices for dogs without significant issues who just need a nutritional boost alongside their regular diet.
As with any dietary change, introduce new treats gradually. If your dog has significant or persistent skin issues, work with your vet to rule out underlying causes before treating nutritionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dog treats are best for coat and skin health in Australia?
The best dog treats for coat and skin health in Australia are those highest in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA. Rufus Chews Shark Jerky Sticks are the top pick for omega-3 concentration in a single-ingredient format. Kangaroo Liver and Beef Liver from the same range add Vitamin A and zinc for complete skin and coat nutritional support.
Do omega-3 treats really help dogs with itchy skin?
Yes. EPA and DHA are well-documented anti-inflammatories that reduce the inflammatory response behind itching, hot spots, and flaky skin in dogs. Treats naturally high in EPA and DHA, such as shark jerky, deliver these fatty acids in a bioavailable form. Results are typically visible after four to six weeks of consistent supplementation alongside a balanced diet.
Why does my dog have a dull coat and what treats can help?
A dull coat often indicates insufficient omega-3 and zinc in the diet. Omega-3s contribute to the lipid layer that gives the coat its natural sheen, while zinc supports sebum production and skin barrier function. Shark-based treats address the omega-3 gap. Beef liver or kangaroo liver address zinc and Vitamin A. Used together, these are the most targeted nutritional intervention for coat shine.
What is the difference between omega-3 from fish and from liver treats?
Fish and shark provide preformed EPA and DHA that dogs use directly. Liver treats provide smaller amounts of omega-3 but add Vitamin A for skin cell turnover and zinc for barrier function. For the best coat and skin outcome, use both: a shark or fish treat for direct omega-3 and a liver treat such as Kangaroo Liver or Beef Liver for complementary micronutrients.
Can dog treats cause skin problems?
Yes. Treats containing artificial colours, flavour enhancers, and certain protein combinations can trigger or worsen skin reactions in sensitive dogs. Single-ingredient treats remove all of these variables. If your dog has recurring skin flare-ups that correlate with treat consumption, switching to a single-ingredient air-dried treat made from a novel protein is a practical first step alongside a vet assessment.
How much shark or liver treat should I give my dog for skin and coat benefits?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calorie intake. For coat and skin benefits, consistency matters more than volume. Several shark jerky sticks or liver treats a few times per week is practical. Liver is high in Vitamin A, which accumulates over time, so high-volume daily liver feeding is not recommended. Use it as a complement to the diet rather than the primary treat.
Are Australian-made dog treats better for skin and coat health?
Australian-made treats are subject to stricter food safety and labelling standards, meaning the ingredient list reflects what is actually in the product. Wild-caught Australian shark and free-range kangaroo are among the cleanest omega-3 sources available globally. For dogs with sensitive skin, Australian-sourced single-ingredient treats eliminate the risk of undisclosed additives found in some imported products.
The bottom line on dog treats for skin and coat health in Australia
For most Australian dogs with coat and skin concerns, the answer starts with omega-3. EPA and DHA are the most clinically relevant nutrients for reducing skin inflammation, improving coat shine, and addressing the dry, flaky skin that signals omega-3 deficiency. Single-ingredient air-dried shark is the richest source available in treat form. Single-ingredient liver treats add Vitamin A and zinc to complete the picture.
Rufus Chews sits at the top of this list because they are the only brand that delivers all three key nutrients across a genuinely single-ingredient range: Shark Jerky Sticks for maximum EPA and DHA, Kangaroo Liver for omega-3-rich liver nutrition with Vitamin A and zinc, and Beef Liver for concentrated Vitamin A and zinc support. All single ingredient. All Australian. No nasties.
Ziwi Peak, Laila & Me, WAG, and Eureka Pet Co each serve a specific purpose within this category. Choose based on your dog's specific symptoms, how severe they are, and whether ingredient simplicity is a requirement. For the most significant coat and skin issues, simplicity and omega-3 potency should both be priorities, which is why the Rufus Chews shark range is the place to start.