For information on How To Subscribe . . . The skin is the largest organ in an animal's body. The unique design of the skin allows it to perform many important functions. Most of the skin is soft, pliable and covered with hair. In certain areas, however, the skin is custom-made to perform specific functions, such as that of the nose and the foot pads of the paws.
Skin has the remarkable ability to heal if damaged or to regrow if removed.
The primary purpose of skin is to protect the body from insults like trauma and microorganisms. The skin is also responsible for keeping the dog warm. It does this by producing hair and maintaining an insulating layer of fat. Specialized skin of the paw pads and tongue allow dogs to cool themselves by letting moisture evaporate. The skin helps regulate the body's moisture balance by creating a barrier to the outside environment.