Zinc Deficiency In Dogs

Dogs that lack zinc, an essential mineral, can suffer from excessive shedding and skin problems. The deficiency is technically called zinc responsive dermatosis. Zinc is just one of the important components that play an important role in the optimum function of the body, thus it should be a normal component of a dog’s diet. The absence or lack of zinc in the diet can pave the way for various issues that affect the skin which is the largest organ of the body, as well as metabolic and immune function.

There are several causes and risk factors for zinc deficiency in dogs. These include:

• A diet that is deficient in zinc
• Calcium-rich diets (because calcium prevents absorption of zinc by binding with it)
• Genetic predisposition of certain canine breeds such as the Alaskan malamute or Siberian husky. They are unable to absorb zinc properly.
• Diets that contain excessive amounts of zinc prevent normal absorption of the mineral.
• Diets that are low in essential fatty acids and total fat negatively influence the absorption of zinc.
• High-fiber diets (or plant-based diets) because plants contain phytate, a substance that can interfere in zinc absoption.
• Abnormal absorption of zinc in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

If your pet is ill, you should make an appointment to have him checked by a veterinarian Las Vegas, NV.