Understanding and treating zinc deficiency skin disease in dogs, particularly in Nordic breeds.
Zinc-responsive dermatosis causes significant discomfort and disfigurement in affected dogs. The crusted, thickened plaques are often pruritic and painful. Secondary bacterial infections cause purulent discharge and further skin damage. Affected dogs frequently scratch and rub at their face, exacerbating lesions and causing self-trauma.
In Nordic breeds with Syndrome I, the genetic inability to absorb adequate zinc from the diet means lifelong supplementation is required. Without treatment, lesions worsen progressively. With appropriate zinc supplementation (often given intravenously in initial treatment then orally), dramatic improvement typically occurs within weeks.
Dogs fed high-cereal diets with excessive phytate content are at risk of Syndrome II regardless of breed. Phytates bind zinc and prevent absorption. Switching to a balanced, commercially complete diet resolves the condition without additional supplementation in most cases.