Dietary skin diseases in the dog

According to Susan Paterson, Vetmb, MA, DVD, DECVD, FRCVS, Virtual Vet Derms, Kendal, United Kingdom

Figure 1 : Crusted lesions on the face of a husky with zincresponsive dermatitis

You asked ...

How can nutrition cause skin diseases in dogs?

The expert says ...

Skin diseases can be connected to nutrition via nutrient deficiencies (inherited or acquired) or undesirable reactions (immunologically or allergic).

Lack of nutrients

Bought nutrient deficiencies are rare due to the quality and regulation of commercial feed. Nutritional reciprocal weights - mostly in connection with zinc, vitamin A, fatty acids and proteins¹ - occur more often when dogs are fed with special nutritional needs (e.g. due to age or disease risks) or if generally poor health impairs the ability of the dog to use certain nutrients.

zinc

In dogs, two forms of zinkresponsive dermatitis were documented² ³.

The first form is caused by an genetic inability to adequate zinc intake and mostly occurs in young adult dogs, which are usually fed with balanced diets. Northern breeds (e.g. Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, Samojede) seem to be predisposed (Figure 1). Affected dogs show different degrees of itching, crusting, hair loss and erythema. Lesions are typically located on pressure points as well as in the periocular and perioral region, on the ear cups, paws and on the nose mirror. Secondary Pyoderma are common. Affected dogs require lifelong zinc supplementary³.

The second shape occurs in young dogs, which are either fed with a low -zinc diet or with a diet that is rich in fabrics that reduce the bioavailability of zinc. Food that is rich in vegetable phytics, calcium, grain or soy can affect zinc absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Affected dogs typically show crusty dermatitis on the mucocutaneous transitions, pressure points and on the fuselage. The lesions can recover with a balanced diet⁵ ⁶.

Idiosyncratic reactions to food can imitate pharmaceutical reactions and cause a variety of clinical symptoms.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is important for the preservation of healthy skin and epithelial cells. Both deficiency and overdosing cause similar symptoms: epidermal hyperkeratosis and scaling, bad hair dress and hair loss⁷. Due to its function in maintaining healthy skin, vitamin A was used to treat heavy seborrhea for certain breeds.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (pufas)

Essential for growth and reproduction, polyunsaturated fatty acids are also crucial to prevent skin lesions. Linolic acid and linolenic acid have long been known as essential fatty acids for dogs. There is usually a lack of fatty acids over several months before cutaneous signs occur⁷ ⁹. Dogs develop fine scaling and a loss of the hair lust, often accompanied by hair loss and bacterial pyoderma. In chronic cases, the skin can thicken and develop a greasy seborrhea; Secondary yeast infections are common.

A lack of fat is rare, but was documented in dogs that were fed with dry food, poorly stored commercial food, homemade rations or poorly formulated low -calorie diets. Pufa deficiency can result from the oxidation of the food as a result of longer storage (canned food: 1 year; dry food: 6 months), inadequate antioxidants or high temperatures. A deficiency can also occur if the diet is complete nutritional, but the PUFA recording is reduced by intestinal malabsorption or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Pufa biosynthesis as a result of chronic liver diseases can also cause similar symptoms¹⁰.

protein

A lack of protein (rarely) usually occurs in connection with hunger or a protein -low diet. Affected dogs can show hyperkeratosis, epidermal hyperpigmentation and loss of hair pigmentation. Hair growth places high protein requirements for the body, which is why a protein lack can affect hair growth and lead to alopecia, whereby the hair is thin, rough, dry, dull and fragile.

Unwanted feed reactions

Unwanted feed reactions (ie reactions to dietary allergens) can be classified as food allergy or food intolerance. Food allergy is an immunologically conditional reaction that can affect both type I and type III immune complexes. Food intolerances include metabolic, pharmacological and idiosyncratic reactions as well as intoxications (e.g. by bacterial and mushroom toxins) ¹¹. (See case study: idiosyncratic feed reaction.)

Cutaneous undesirable feed reactions (CAFRS) probably play an important role in the dog's atopic dermatitis. It is currently assumed that cafrs can manifest themselves as atopic dermatitis in some dogs; However, dogs with CAFR can also show clinical symptoms (e.g. gastrointestinal complaints), which are usually not associated with atopic dermatitis. It was proposed to divide atopic dermatitis into feed-induced and non-feed-induced atopic dermatitis-or to speak of "Canine atopic dermatitis sensu stricto" in the event of not appealing on elimination diets. Numerous studies have been published on the dermatological manifestations of cafrs in dogs¹¹ ¹⁴–²⁰.

Figure 2 : Self -inflicted injuries on the face of a young border terrier with cafr.

Most CAFR cases occur in young dogs. The itching caused by CAFR is more common in dogs under 6 months than atopic dermatitis¹. A non-seasonal itching is a constant symptomlessness¹ ¹⁶ ²⁰ and often speaks badly on glucocorticoids on²⁰. The cafr signs of the dog overlap with other allergic dermatoses that affect the face, ears and ventral skin¹⁶. Itching of the ears and licking of the anal area are common¹¹, but CAFR can also only be limited to perianal skin²¹. Primary lesions are mostly papular; Secondary lesions due to self -inflicted trauma (Figure 2) can be complicated by bacterial or yeast piling infections.

The gold standard for the diagnosis of CAFR is the improvement of the symptoms under a suitable exclusion or new diet as well as the recurrence of the symptoms in re-exposure with the original food. Identification of a really new protein diet can be difficult, but the availability of hydrolyzed diets in the past 10 years has made more effective diet attempts possible²² --²⁵. Other tests (e.g. intradermales skin tests²⁶ ²⁷, skin paving tests²⁸, measurement of the serum-circulating food allergen-specific IGE²⁶ ²⁹) have no diagnostic value due to low sensitivity and specificity.

Figure 3 : Intestration of ulcers on the bale of a dog with vasculitis.

CAFRS can also present themselves as vasculitis (e.g. incorporated ulcers in the center of the bale [Figure 3], ulcerations and crust formation on the edge of the ear cup, ulcerated lesions on the concave side of the auricle) as well as urticarial vasculitis³ ³. The lesions of urtialarial vasculitis are similar to urticaria, but do not piling the diaascopy and do not form dimples at print³⁰.

Case study: idiosyncratic feed reaction

In addition to cutaneous undesirable feed reactions, idiosyncratic reactions on food can imitate pharmaceutical reactions and express themselves in a variety of clinical signs. A study describes a border collie with erythematous lesions in the armpits, the groin area, the mucokutaneous transitions and the ear cups. Histopathologically, an erythema of multiforms was diagnosed. The lesions addressed Azathioprine, prednisolone and a hypoallergenic diet. The disease did not occur again when the medication was discontinued, but the symptoms returned every time the original commercial diet was reintroduced. This indicates that the diet caused the disease¹².

How do you fix the most common diet -related nutrient deficiencies in dogs?

1. Zinc deficiency

Problem:
Zinc deficiency occurs either genetically (e.g. in huskys, malamutes) or due to unsuitable feeding (low -zinc diet or feed with binding fabrics such as grain and soy).

Solution:

• Zinc supplementation:
  Your vet will recommend a suitable zinc source (e.g. zinc sulfate, zinc methionine or organic zincchelate). The dose must be adjusted individually and should take place for life if there is a genetic disorder.
• Adapted nutrition:
  Choose a high -quality sole feed without high proportions of zinc binding fabrics. In many cases, a changeover to a better balanced feed is sufficient.
• Monitoring:
  Regular veterinary controls are important to avoid overdose (zinc poisoning).

2. Vitamin A deficiency

Problem:
Vitamin A is crucial for the health of the skin and mucous membranes. A deficiency leads to dry skin, scale formation and hair loss.

Solution:

• Choosing feed:
  High-quality commercial sole feed usually contain enough vitamin A. Eighth of Hausmannkost or raw feeding (barf) in particular on a complement with vitamin-a-rich ingredients such as liver.
• Targeted additions:
  In the case of diagnosed deficiency, vitamin A preparations can be given under veterinary supervision. Attention: Too much vitamin A can also cause serious health damage (hypervitaminosis A).
• Therapy control:
  Success and any side effects must be checked regularly by blood tests.

3. Fatty acid deficiency (Pufa deficiency)

Problem:
A lack of essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid leads to dry dryness, dull fur and increased susceptibility to infections.

Solution:

• Feed optimization:
  Choose high-quality types of feed that are rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Oil additives:
  additions such as salmon oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil or special veterinary preparations (e.g. with a high EPA and DHA content) can help. The dosage should be adapted to the size, weight and need of the dog.
• Note the storage:
  Dry food should not be kept open too long (maximum 6 weeks), and oils should be protected and stored cool to avoid oxidation.
• Treat secondary causes:
  If the deficiency occurs due to diseases such as pancreatic insufficiency, the underlying disease must also be treated.

4. Protein deficiency

Problem:
A serious lack of protein causes hair loss, skin thickening and general weakness.

Solution:

• Adjusted protein intake:
  The dog should receive a balanced feed with high -quality, easily digestible protein (e.g. from chicken, lamb, fish or eggs).
• Special feed in diseases:
  In dogs with gastrointestinal diseases or kidney diseases, there are specially formulated types of feed that deliver easily digestible protein in adapted quantities.
• Veterinary control:
  The protein requirement should be checked regularly, especially in chronic diseases or in growth.

5. Adverse feed reactions (allergies or intolerances)

Problem:
Allergic or incompatible reactions to components of the feed lead to strong itching, rashes and digestive problems.

Solution:

• Elimination diet:
  Over 8–12 weeks, the dog is placed on a diet with a new type of protein or hydrolyzed proteins (e.g. kangaroo, horse, hydrolyzed chicken).
• Return test:
  After improvement, the original feed or individual ingredients is being reintroduced to identify the trigger.
• Lifelong feed change:
  After diagnosis, a permanent diet with compatible feed is recommended.
• Accompanying treatment:
  Secondary infections or skin irritation must be treated symptomatically in parallel (e.g. with antihistamines, shampoos or antibiotics).

Conclusion

Removal of diet -related defects in dogs requires a combination of:

• Correct feed selection
• Targeted supplementation
• Treatment of possible underlying diseases
• Close cooperation with the vet

This is the only way to restore skin health and stabilize in the long term. A precise diagnosis and individually adapted therapy to achieve permanent success is particularly important.

Common FAQs for diet -related skin diseases in the dog

Comprehensive summary: diet -related skin diseases in the dog

Dietary skin diseases in the dog are a common, but often underestimated reason for visits to vet. These can be both nutritional defects and allergic or intolerant reactions to components of the feed. Dietary skin diseases in the dog are shown in various forms: from itching to dandruff to serious inflammation of the skin.

One of the most important causes of diet-related skin diseases in the dog are nutrient deficiencies, in particular zinc, vitamin A, fatty acid or protein deficiency. Genetic predispositions for certain breeds (e.g. huskys or Malamutes) are a common cause of diet -related skin diseases in dogs , but also false feeding or storage problems of feeding play a role.

Dietary skin diseases in the dog can also result from a so -called cutaneous adverse feed reaction (CAFR). Here the dog reacts to certain ingredients such as proteins or additives in the feed. Such diet-related skin diseases in the dog often express themselves in persistent itching, eczema, ear infections or even gastrointestinal problems.

In the case of diet -related skin diseases in dogs, exact diagnostics and targeted feed changes are crucial. A correctly carried out exclusion diet helps to uncover the trigger and check the symptoms. , diet -related skin diseases in the dog should be thought early when typical symptoms occur.

In addition to adapting the diet, the treatment of diet-related skin diseases in the dog Special diets for sensitive dogs help to significantly reduce diet -related skin diseases in the dog

So that diet -related skin diseases in the dog do not even arise, a high -quality feed quality, correct storage and a suitable selection should be taken into account depending on age and health. If diet -related problems are recognized at an early stage, the most diet -related skin diseases in the dog be healed completely or checked permanently.

dieted skin diseases in the dog are suspected veterinarian should always be consulted, since uncontrolled self -treatment can make skin problems worse. Expert advice ensures that the actual cause was found and diet -related skin diseases in the dog are treated specifically.

Even with self-cooked or barf diets there is an increased risk of diet-related skin diseases in the dog if they are not precisely tailored to the nutrient requirement. Therefore, such nutritional forms in diet -related skin diseases in the dog always be carried out under the guidance of a veterinarian or nutritional specialist.

Long -term observation is also important because many diet -related skin diseases in dogs tend to relapse when old errors are repeated in feeding. Consistent, lifelong adaptation helps to sustainably reduce diet -related skin diseases in the dog

Studies showed that diet -related skin diseases in the dog are often the first symptoms of the beginning atopia or chronic dermatitis. be examined with regard to diet -related skin diseases in the dog

Dietary skin diseases in dogs often lead to secondary infections with bacteria or yeast mushrooms without early treatment. As a result, the general condition of the animal deteriorates considerably, which makes healing more complicated and lengthy. It is therefore particularly important to quickly identify and target diet -related skin diseases in the dog

Another problem in connection with diet -related skin diseases in dogs is the frequent confusion with environmental influences or parasite infestation. Thorough diagnosis, in which possible food allergies or nutrient deficiencies are considered, prevents incorrect treatment of diet -related skin diseases in the dog .

Prevention plays a major role in avoiding diet -related skin diseases in the dog If the first signs such as scales, itching or hair loss occur, the dog's diet -related skin diseases be considered.

, diet -related skin diseases in the dog are a complex problem that can have genetic, nutritional and immunological causes. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the better the chances of diet -related skin diseases in the dog and permanently improving the well -being of the animal.

In everyday life you should be aware that diet -related skin diseases in the dog are a serious but easy -to -treat problem. The right choice of feed, regular veterinary controls and quick intervention In the case of symptoms are the best measures against diet -related skin diseases in the dog .

Many cases of diet -related skin diseases in the dog could be avoided if holders were paying attention to feed quality and correct storage at an early stage. Adaptation to the individual needs of the dog also prevents diet -related skin diseases in the dog .

So if you find skin problems with your dog, always remember: Diet skin diseases in the dog are more common than expected - and easy to treat with the right strategy!

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