How much zinc should i give my dog

Dogs can present with similar lesions as seen in the Alaskan breeds, but may also have very thickly crusted paw pad and planum nasale epithelium with fissures. Severely affected dogs may also have generalized lymphadenomegaly, anorexia and depression.

The third type of zinc-related dermatosis has been classically described as generic dog food disease. In early reports, some dogs particularly puppies developed scaling and crusting as early as two to four weeks after being fed a commercial generic dog food! The foods did not meet the National Research Council requirements and contained a sub-optimal level of poorly available zinc. Lesions can be well-demarcated on the muco-cutaneous junctions, pressure points and distal limbs with variable degrees of alopecia.

The puppies also had fever, depression, enlarged peripheral lymph nodes and pitting edema. Diagnosis is made with history, clinical examination, measurement of zinc serum or hair levels and results of skin histopathology. Samples may become contaminated with zinc in the tubes that hold the samples as glass and rubber are the primary culprits. Also, anti-coagulants may also interfere with the results and should not be present in the sampling tubes.

The samples are taken from peripheral veins, placed in a non-rubber stopper tube and the plasma or serum preferably "royal blue tops" is then placed into a plastic vial. Also, it is possible for certain concurrent metabolic conditions and other diseases i. The results of skin histopathology is similar in all forms of zinc-related dermatosis and demonstrate the classic hyperkeratosis that is predominantly parakeratotic the corneocytes have retained their nucleus in nature.

This parakeratosis is evident on the epidermal surface and can become confluent to involve the follicular epithelium as well. This corresponds to the crusts and scales that are visualized upon physical examination. Sometimes dyskeratosis is also reported, especially in the generic dog food cases. In addition, there is a superficial perivascular pattern of inflammation that can be mixed, but eosinophils can predominate.

Zinc is available in many forms for oral supplementation and include zinc sulfate oral and IV , zinc methionine, and zinc gluconate. Diarrhea, lack of appetite, dermatitis and other digestive issues are also typical yet serious symptoms of insufficient zinc intake. They need to be addressed! Of course, these signs could indicate another vitamin deficiency as well. For one, there are different types of this essential mineral. Some are better absorbed than others. Avoid Zinc sulphate and Zinc oxide.

Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes breeds of northern decent tend to need extra zinc due to a poor ability to absorb it. A quality all-in-one K9 supplement that contains zinc makes sense. Of course, talk with your vet about it first. And remember that toxicosis while not so common is a real risk. A conservative dog dose formula is 1mg for every 2 pounds of body weight.

Our fully natural range of food and treats has a wide variety of products, catering for different areas of health and nutrition for dogs and cats. Articles Zinc and Selenium for dogs No Comments. Causes of Zinc deficiency The most potent sources of dietary zinc are found in red meats, white meats, and fish especially oysters.

Effects of Zinc deficiency Given the vast array of metabolic processes that involve zinc, it is not hard to understand why zinc deficiency has wide-ranging and seriously detrimental effects on general health.

Supplementation Diets high in fresh meats should not require additional zinc supplements. Yes, I would like to subscribe to the Pet Health newsletter. Related Articles. Avoiding separation anxiety. April 15, April 8, Thinking of adopting a rescue? April 1, Continuing On March 24, COVID and pets. What does it all mean?

March 20, First aid tips. March 19, Bone broth. March 11, Looking for a healthy treat option? You should be able to get all the zinc you need by eating a varied and balanced diet. If you take zinc supplements, do not take too much as this could be harmful.

Do not take more than 25mg of zinc supplements a day unless advised to by a doctor. Food Sources Zinc is also abundant in fresh meat, seafood, vegetables, dairy products, and grains, including: Beef.

B-complex vitamins can offer dogs a variety of benefits, including improved heart, skin, and digestive health. Vitamin C, niacin, biotin, and folic acid are also safe for dogs. Your email address will not be published. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.