- Diet-related skin diseases in dogs
- YOU ASKED…
- THE EXPERT SAYS…
- Nutrient deficiency
- Undesired feeding reactions
- Case study: Idiosyncratic feeding response
- How do you correct the most common diet-related nutrient deficiencies in dogs?
- Frequently Asked Questions about Diet-Related Skin Diseases in Dogs
- Comprehensive summary: Diet-related skin diseases in dogs
- Sources
Diet-related skin diseases in dogs
After Susan Paterson, VetMB, MA, DVD, DECVD, FRCVS, Virtual Vet Derms, Kendal, United Kingdom
FIGURE 1Crusted lesions on the face of a husky with zinc-responsive dermatitis
YOU ASKED…
How can diet cause skin diseases in dogs?
THE EXPERT SAYS…
Skin diseases can be linked to nutritional deficiencies (inherited or acquired) or adverse reactions (immunological or allergic) to the diet.
Nutrient deficiency
Acquired nutrient deficiencies are rare due to the quality and regulation of commercial pet food. Nutrient imbalances—most often related to zinc, vitamin A, fatty acids, and proteins¹—are more common when dogs with special nutritional needs (e.g., due to age or disease risk) are inappropriately fed, or when generally poor health impairs the dog's ability to utilize certain nutrients.
zinc
Two forms of zinc-responsive dermatitis have been documented in dogs² ³.
The first form is caused by a genetic inability to adequately absorb zinc and most often occurs in young adult dogs that are usually fed balanced diets. Northern breeds (e.g., Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, Samoyed) appear to be predisposed (Figure 1). Affected dogs exhibit varying degrees of pruritus, crusting, hair loss, and erythema. Lesions are typically located at pressure points, as well as in the periocular and perioral regions, on the pinnae, paw pads, and nasal planum. Secondary pyoderma is common. Affected dogs require lifelong zinc supplementation.³–⁵.
The second form occurs in young dogs fed either a zinc-deficient diet or a diet rich in substances that reduce zinc bioavailability. Foods high in plant phytates, calcium, grains, or soy can impair zinc absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Affected dogs typically exhibit crusted dermatitis at the mucocutaneous junctions, pressure sores, and on the trunk. The lesions may resolve with a balanced diet.⁵ ⁶.
Idiosyncratic reactions to food can mimic drug reactions and cause a variety of clinical symptoms.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy skin and epithelial cells. Both deficiency and overdose cause similar symptoms: epidermal hyperkeratosis and scaling, poor coat condition, and hair loss.⁷ Because of its role in maintaining healthy skin, vitamin A has been used to treat severe seborrhea in certain breeds.⁸.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)
Essential for growth and reproduction, polyunsaturated fatty acids are also crucial for preventing skin lesions. Linoleic and linolenic acids have long been recognized as essential fatty acids for dogs. A deficiency of these fatty acids is usually present for several months before cutaneous signs appear.⁷ ⁹ Dogs develop fine scaling and a loss of hair luster, often accompanied by hair loss and bacterial pyoderma. In chronic cases, the skin may thicken and develop oily seborrhea; secondary yeast infections are common.
Fatty acid deficiency is rare, but has been documented in dogs fed dry food, poorly stored commercial food, homemade rations, or poorly formulated low-calorie diets.⁷ PUFA deficiency can result from oxidation of the food due to prolonged storage (canned food: 1 year; dry food: 6 months), insufficient antioxidants, or high temperatures. A deficiency can also occur when the diet is nutritionally complete, but PUFA absorption is reduced by intestinal malabsorption or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Impaired PUFA biosynthesis due to chronic liver disease can also cause similar symptoms.¹⁰.
protein
Protein deficiency (rare) usually occurs in connection with starvation or a low-protein diet. Affected dogs may exhibit hyperkeratosis, epidermal hyperpigmentation, and loss of hair pigmentation. Hair growth places high protein demands on the body, which is why protein deficiency can impair hair growth and lead to alopecia, resulting in thin, rough, dry, dull, and brittle hair.10.
Undesired feeding reactions
Undesirable food reactions (i.e., reactions to dietary allergens) can be classified as food allergies or food intolerances. A food allergy is an immunologically mediated reaction that can involve 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 fungal toxins). (See Case Study: Idiosyncratic Food Reaction.)
Cutaneous adverse food reactions (CAFRs) likely play an important role in canine atopic dermatitis.13 Currently, CAFRs are thought to manifest as atopic dermatitis in some dogs; however, dogs with CAFRs may also exhibit clinical signs (e.g., gastrointestinal distress) not normally associated with atopic dermatitis. It has been suggested to divide atopic dermatitis into food-induced and non-food-induced atopic dermatitis—or, in cases not responding to elimination diets, to refer to it as „canine atopic dermatitis sensu stricto.“ Numerous studies have been published on the dermatological manifestations of CAFRs in dogs.14–20.
FIGURE 2: Self-inflicted injuries to the face of a young Border Terrier with CAFR.
Most CAFR cases occur in young dogs. The pruritus caused by CAFR is more common than atopic dermatitis in dogs under 6 months of age. Non-seasonal pruritus is a constant symptom and often responds poorly to glucocorticoids. The cutaneous signs of CAFR in dogs overlap with other allergic dermatoses, affecting the face, ears, and ventral skin. Ear pruritus and anal licking are common, but CAFR can also be limited exclusively to the perianal skin. Primary lesions are usually papular; secondary lesions resulting from self-inflicted trauma (Figure 2) can be complicated by bacterial or yeast infections.
The gold standard for diagnosing CAFR is improvement of symptoms on a suitable elimination or novel diet, as well as recurrence of symptoms upon re-exposure to the original food. Identifying a truly novel protein diet can be challenging, but the availability of hydrolyzed diets over the past 10 years has enabled more effective dietary trials.²²–²⁵ Other tests (e.g., intradermal skin tests²⁶ ²⁷, skin patch tests²⁸, measurement of serum circulating food allergen-specific IgE²⁶ ²⁹) have no diagnostic value due to low sensitivity and specificity.
FIGURE 3: Incised ulcers on the paw pad of a dog with vasculitis.
CAFRs can also present as vasculitis (e.g., indented ulcers in the center of the pads [Figure 3], ulcerations and crusting at the margin of the auricle, ulcerated lesions on the concave side of the auricle) as well as urticarial vasculitis.³⁰ ³¹ The lesions of urticarial vasculitis resemble urticaria, but do not blanch on diascopy and do not form pits on pressure.³⁰.
Case study: Idiosyncratic feeding response
In addition to cutaneous adverse food reactions, idiosyncratic reactions to food can mimic drug reactions and manifest in a variety of clinical signs. One study describes a Border Collie with erythematous lesions in the axillae, groin, mucocutaneous junctions, and ear pinnae. Histopathologically, erythema multiforme was diagnosed. The lesions responded to azathioprine, prednisolone, and a hypoallergenic diet. The disease did not recur when the medications were discontinued; however, the symptoms returned each time the original commercial diet was reintroduced. This suggests that the diet was the cause of the disease.¹².
How do you correct the most common diet-related nutrient deficiencies in dogs?
1. Zinc deficiency
Problem:
Zinc deficiency occurs either due to genetic factors (e.g., in Huskies, Malamutes) or due to unsuitable feeding (low-zinc diet or food containing zinc-binding substances such as grains and soy).
Solution:
- Zinc supplementation:
Your veterinarian will recommend a suitable zinc source (e.g., zinc sulfate, zinc methionine, or organic zinc chelate). The dose must be individually adjusted and should be continued for life if a genetic disorder is present. - Adapted diet:
Choose a high-quality complete feed without high levels of zinc-binding substances. In many cases, simply switching to a better-balanced feed is sufficient. - Monitoring:
Regular veterinary check-ups are important to avoid overdosing (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, dandruff, and hair loss.
Solution:
- Feed selection:
High-quality commercial complete feeds usually contain sufficient vitamin A. When preparing homemade food or raw feeding (BARF), pay particular attention to supplementing with vitamin A-rich ingredients such as liver. - Targeted additions:
If a deficiency is diagnosed, vitamin A supplements can be administered under veterinary supervision. Caution: Too much vitamin A can also cause serious health problems (hypervitaminosis A). - Therapy monitoring:
Success and any side effects must be regularly monitored through blood tests.
3. Fatty acid deficiency (PUFA deficiency)
Problem:
A deficiency in essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid leads to dry skin, dull fur and increased susceptibility to infections.
Solution:
- Feed optimization:
Choose high-quality feed that is rich in Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids. - Oil additives:
Supplements such as salmon oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil, or special veterinary preparations (e.g., with high EPA and DHA content) can provide targeted support. The dosage should be adjusted to the dog's size, weight, and individual needs. - Care instructions for storage:
Dry food should not be left open for too long (maximum 6 weeks), and oils should be stored away from light and in a cool place to avoid oxidation. - Treat secondary causes:
If the deficiency is caused by diseases such as pancreatic insufficiency, the underlying disease must also be treated.
4. Protein deficiency
Problem:
A severe protein deficiency causes hair loss, skin thickening, and general weakness.
Solution:
- Adjusted protein intake:
The dog should receive a balanced diet with high-quality, easily digestible protein (e.g., from chicken, lamb, fish or eggs). - Special food for illnesses:
For dogs with gastrointestinal or kidney diseases, there are specially formulated foods that provide easily digestible protein in adapted amounts. - Veterinary inspection:
Protein requirements should be checked regularly, especially in cases of chronic diseases or during growth.
5. Adverse reactions to food (allergies or intolerances)
Problem:
Allergic or intolerance reactions to ingredients in the food lead to severe itching, skin rashes and digestive problems.
Solution:
- Elimination diet:
For 8–12 weeks, the dog is put on a diet with a novel protein source or hydrolyzed proteins (e.g., kangaroo, horse, hydrolyzed chicken). - Regression test:
Once improvement is seen, the original food or individual ingredients are selectively reintroduced to identify the triggers. - Lifelong dietary change:
Following diagnosis, a permanent diet with suitable feed is recommended. - Accompanying treatment:
Secondary infections or skin irritations must be treated symptomatically in parallel (e.g. with antihistamines, shampoos or antibiotics).
Conclusion
Correcting diet-related deficiencies in dogs requires a combination of:
- Choosing the right food
- Targeted supplementation
- Treatment of possible underlying diseases
- Close cooperation with the veterinarian
Only in this way can skin health be restored and stabilized in the long term. Accurate diagnosis and individually tailored therapy are particularly important to achieve lasting success.
Frequently Asked Questions about Diet-Related Skin Diseases in Dogs
How can nutrient deficiencies occur despite high-quality dog food products?
Although commercial dog foods are strictly regulated and usually offer a balanced nutrient composition, nutrient deficiencies can still occur in certain situations. Reasons for this include:
Individual needsDogs with special needs (e.g., puppies, pregnant bitches, geriatric dogs, or dogs with chronic illnesses) require specific nutrient profiles. If these needs are not individually addressed, even high-quality food may be insufficient.
Malabsorption and diseasesDiseases such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases impair the absorption of nutrients from food. Liver diseases can also disrupt the biosynthesis of essential fatty acids.
Incorrect storageStorage under unsuitable conditions (e.g., high temperatures, long storage times) leads to the oxidation of sensitive nutrients such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) or vitamins, which greatly reduces their bioavailability.
Unbalanced home cookingHomemade diets are often inadequate without professional guidance, especially for long-term feeding.
Therefore, regular veterinary check-ups and, if necessary, individual dietary adjustments are particularly important.
What is zinc-responsive dermatitis and which dogs are particularly at risk?
Zinc-responsive dermatitis is a skin condition triggered by a deficiency of bioavailable zinc. There are two main forms:
Genetic formCertain breeds, such as Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Samoyeds, have a congenital zinc absorption disorder. These dogs develop skin problems despite an otherwise balanced diet. Symptoms include itching, crusting, redness, and hair loss—especially at pressure points, around the eyes and mouth, as well as on the paws and nose.
Acquired formYoung dogs fed diets rich in zinc binders (e.g., phytates in grains or soy) or generally lacking in zinc can also be affected. Switching to a balanced diet often helps in these cases.
TherapyLifelong zinc supplementation or dietary adjustments are essential. Without treatment, secondary bacterial infections can occur.
How do food allergies and food intolerances differ in dogs?
Food allergies and Food intolerances They have different causes, but can cause similar symptoms:
Food allergyThis is an immunologically mediated overreaction. IgE-mediated immediate reactions (Type I) or immune complex reactions (Type III) are usually involved. Typical symptoms include severe itching, skin reddening, rashes, and ear infections. Diarrhea or vomiting may also occur.
Food intoleranceThis includes non-immunological reactions, such as:
Metabolic causes: Lack of enzymes (e.g., lactose intolerance)
Pharmacological effectsReactions to certain biogenic amines in food
Idiosyncratic reactionsUnpredictable individual reactions to certain feed components
Toxic effectsIntake of bacterial or fungal toxins
Diagnosis and therapyA controlled dietary trial with a novel or hydrolyzed diet is the gold standard. Skin tests or blood tests are not suitable due to low accuracy.
How can you recognize and diagnose a cutaneous adverse food reaction (CAFR) in dogs?
CAFRs often manifest as:
Non-seasonal itchingEspecially on the ears, face, paws, or in the anal area.
Secondary infectionsFrequent scratching can lead to bacterial or yeast infections.
Behavioural changesExcessive licking, scratching, or biting of certain parts of the body.
Thickening and darkening of the skin in chronic cases.
Diagnostics:
The gold standard is an elimination diet with a strictly limited or hydrolyzed protein source for at least 8 weeks.
If the symptoms improve and reappear after reintroduction of the old diet, the diagnosis is confirmed.
Blood tests, skin tests or patch tests are not reliable for diagnosing food allergies in dogs.
A consistent diet under veterinary guidance is crucial for a correct diagnosis.
What role do essential fatty acids play in the skin health of dogs, and what happens in the case of a deficiency?
Essential fatty acids (EFAs), in particular Linoleic acid and Linolenic acid, are essential for:
Maintaining the skin barrierPrevents excessive water loss and the penetration of pathogens.
Regulation of inflammatory processesThey influence the production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids.
Symptoms of a deficiency:
Fine scaling ("fish-scale-like skin")
Dull, lackluster fur
Hair loss (alopecia)
Oily, greasy skin (seborrhea oleosa)
Secondary bacterial or fungal infections
Causes for a deficiency:
Poor storage or aging of dry food
Inadequate nutritional supplementation
Diseases such as malabsorption or chronic liver diseases
Therapy: A dietary adjustment and, if necessary, supplementation with high-quality oils (e.g., fish oil) can compensate for deficiencies and improve skin health.
How can dogs develop nutrient deficiencies even though I buy good food?
Even if you feed your dog high-quality food, problems can still arise in some cases. For example, if your dog is ill and cannot properly absorb nutrients from the food (e.g., due to stomach or intestinal problems). Or if the food is stored improperly, important nutrients such as certain vitamins or fatty acids are lost. Even home-cooked meals can sometimes lack all the necessary nutrients.
Tip: Ensure proper storage, change the food if necessary, and consult your veterinarian if you are unsure about anything.
What is zinc-induced skin disease in dogs and which animals are most commonly affected?
Some dogs, especially breeds like the Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute, cannot properly absorb zinc from their food. This can lead to skin problems: itching, scabs, redness, and hair loss are typical signs. The affected areas are often on the ears, paws, or face.
Treatment: These dogs often need supplemental zinc for the rest of their lives. Early diagnosis is crucial so the skin can recover quickly.
What is the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance?
At a Food allergy If your dog's immune system overreacts to a particular food (such as beef or chicken), this usually manifests as severe itching or skin rashes.
At a Food intolerance In contrast, the immune system plays no role. The body simply cannot process certain substances properly – similar to people who are lactose intolerant.
Important: In both cases, only a special elimination diet can help determine what your dog can tolerate. Tests at the vet are the best way to do this.
How can I tell if my dog has a skin reaction to food?
If your dog suddenly starts scratching a lot, especially around its ears, paws, belly, or anal area, it could be a reaction to its food. Often, simply scratching doesn't help, and medication provides little relief.
How to find out:
Your vet will recommend a special diet where your dog receives only a new, different food for a period of time. If your dog's condition improves, the problem likely lies with the old food.
Why are healthy fats so important for my dog's skin?
Certain fats, known as essential fatty acids, keep your dog's skin supple and their coat shiny. If your dog doesn't get enough of these, their skin will become dry and flaky, and their coat will be dull. Severe itching or even hair loss often develops as well.
Causes: This sometimes happens due to improper storage of dry food or in cases of specific diseases that prevent the absorption of fats.
What helps: Good oils (like salmon oil) or special supplements can help to correct the deficiency. Your veterinarian can recommend the right amount and type.
Comprehensive summary: Diet-related skin diseases in dogs
Diet-related skin diseases in dogs Nutritional deficiencies are a common, but often underestimated, reason for veterinary visits. These can include both nutritional deficiencies and allergic or intolerance reactions to food components. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs They manifest in a wide variety of forms: from itching and scaling to serious skin inflammation.
One of the most important causes for Diet-related skin diseases in dogs These include nutrient deficiencies, particularly zinc, vitamin A, fatty acid, or protein deficiencies. Genetic predisposition in certain breeds (e.g., Huskies or Malamutes) is a common cause. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs, but incorrect feeding or storage problems of animal feed also play a role.
Diet-related skin diseases in dogs These reactions can also be caused by a so-called cutaneous adverse food reaction (CAFR). In this case, the dog reacts to certain ingredients such as proteins or additives in the food. diet-related skin diseases in dogs They often manifest as persistent itching, eczema, ear infections, or even gastrointestinal problems.
With diet-related skin diseases in dogs Accurate diagnostics and targeted dietary changes are crucial. A properly conducted elimination diet helps to uncover triggers and control symptoms. Early intervention is particularly important for young dogs under six months old. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs This should be considered when typical symptoms occur.
For the treatment of diet-related skin diseases in dogs In addition to dietary adjustments, treatment often includes the administration of nutritional supplements, especially in cases of zinc or fatty acid deficiency. Special diets for sensitive dogs help reduce the risk of... Diet-related skin diseases in dogs to reduce significantly.
With it Diet-related skin diseases in dogs To prevent problems from arising in the first place, attention should be paid to high-quality feed, proper storage, and appropriate selection based on age and health. If diet-related problems are detected early, most can be prevented. diet-related skin diseases in dogs completely cure or permanently control.
In case of suspected Diet-related skin diseases in dogs should always be Veterinarian It is advisable to consult a professional, as uncontrolled self-treatment can worsen skin problems. Expert advice ensures that the actual cause is found and Diet-related skin diseases in dogs be treated in a targeted manner.
Even with home-cooked or BARF diets, there is an increased risk of Diet-related skin diseases in dogs, if they are not precisely tailored to nutritional needs. Therefore, such diets should be avoided in diet-related skin diseases in dogs This should always be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or nutritionist.
Long-term observation is also important, because many Diet-related skin diseases in dogs They tend to relapse if old feeding mistakes are repeated. Consistent, lifelong adjustments help reduce the risk of relapse. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs to reduce sustainably.
Studies have shown that Diet-related skin diseases in dogs Skin changes are often misinterpreted as the first symptoms of incipient atopy or chronic dermatitis. Therefore, any skin change that is not due to seasonal causes or parasites should always be evaluated in light of these conditions. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs be examined.
Diet-related skin diseases in dogs Without early treatment, these often lead to secondary infections with bacteria or yeast. This significantly worsens the animal's overall condition, making recovery more complicated and protracted. Therefore, it is particularly important to, Diet-related skin diseases in dogs to quickly identify and treat effectively.
Another problem related to diet-related skin diseases in dogs A common misconception is that it is often mistaken for environmental factors or parasitic infestation. Thorough diagnostics, including consideration of possible food allergies or nutrient deficiencies, prevent incorrect treatment. diet-related skin diseases in dogs.
Prevention plays a major role in Diet-related skin diseases in dogs To avoid these problems: This includes a varied diet, regular health checks, and careful observation of the skin and coat. If initial signs such as dandruff, itching, or hair loss appear, you should consult a veterinarian. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs to be thought of.
In summary, Diet-related skin diseases in dogs A complex problem that can have genetic, nutritional, and immunological causes. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the chances of recovery., Diet-related skin diseases in dogs to treat successfully and to permanently improve the animal's well-being.
In everyday life, one should be aware that Diet-related skin diseases in dogs This represents a serious but treatable problem. Choosing the right food, regular veterinary checkups, and prompt intervention at the first sign of symptoms are the best measures against it. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs.
Many cases of diet-related skin diseases in dogs These problems could be avoided if owners paid attention to food quality and proper storage from an early stage. Adapting the food to the individual needs of the dog also prevents them from developing problems. Diet-related skin diseases in dogs arise.
So if you notice skin problems in your dog, always remember: Diet-related skin diseases in dogs are more common than you think – and easily treatable with the right strategy!
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