Vegemite’s Story: The Stubborn Staffy Rash

The belly that began Updog

Staffies are famous for their big smiles and sensitive skin. If your Staffy is prone to rashes, hot spots or grass allergies, you’re not alone. Our boy Vegemite did too, and is the reason Updog exists.

He battled a persistent belly rash that would flare up in warmer months - and given we’re Queenslanders, was most of the year. Despite trialling many of “the best” (and priciest) dog foods on the market, things didn’t start improving until we experimented with adding natural superfoods to his meals (now known as Skin & Coat Hero).

After 4-weeks of consistently using Skin & Coat Hero - our natural, gut-first skin supplement - these were the changes we saw:

The Results

✓ Shinier coat and visibly healthier skin
✓ His dry, flakey skin on the stomach cleared
✓ Itching, redness and belly rash calmed
✓ Fur began growing back where the rashes made it patchy
✓ No more grass allergy flare-ups
✓ Bonus: less gas and great stools

Vegemite’s stubborn belly rash vanished. Gone!

One year of daily use later, he’s still not had a single flare up. His coat is glossy, his skin calm, and he’s the healthiest he’s ever been. We get compliments on how healthy his coat looks so regularly now that it actually surprises us when strangers who stop for a pat don’t compliment him. We’re commonly asked if we oil his coat, to which we say - no, we just started a range of dog supplements for him instead. (Sam, Updog Co-Founder)

Why Updog’s Skin & Coat Hero Works for Dogs

This vet-approved blend targets the gut-skin connection and inflammation with therapeutic levels of skin-loving ingredients:

• Probiotics: Supports a healthy microbiome to calm the immune system and reduce itch-triggering inflammation.

• Green Lipped Mussel Powder (EPA & DHA): Anti-inflammatory omegas that help soothe irritation and support skin structure.

• Flaxseed Meal (ALA omegas): Hydrates skin and promotes a healthy, glossy coat.
  

• Sweet Potato Powder (vitamin A, antioxidants): Helps maintain a strong skin barrier and reduces sensitivity.
  

• Nettle Extract: A natural antihistamine traditionally used to ease seasonal itching.
  

• Turmeric & Black Pepper: Nature’s anti-inflammatory power duo with boosted absorption.

No fillers, no artificial flavours. Just clean, powerful ingredients you can feel good about adding to your dog's dinner. 

If your dog is dealing with rashes, allergies, scratching, or dull coat, Vegemite’s story shows what can change when you nourish the skin from within. Shop Skin & Coat Hero and give your best mate some relief - it’s as simple as a sprinkle over their food.

And tell your dog we said hi!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why are Staffies prone to skin issues? Staffy skin troubles come down to a mix of genetics, environment, and anatomy. Short coats, exposed skin, and environmental triggers (dust mites, grass, heat) make them prone to irritation. You’ll see this particularly around their paws, belly, chest, armpits, groin, face, and ears. Supporting the skin barrier and reducing inflammation through their diet is key for a good quality of life.

Can probiotics help a dog’s itchy skin? Yes - probiotics support good bacteria that reduce inflammation and improve digestion of nutrients essential for skin health. Balancing the gut can reduce a dog’s itching, especially if the root cause is linked to allergies, gut health, or a weakened immune system.

How long until I see results?  Most pet parents notice visible improvements - like reduced itching and a softer coat - within 3 to 4 weeks of daily use. Results may vary depending on your dog’s individual condition.