Autumn's cooling weather and winter moisture challenge animals' immune defences as well. Autumn is often "bug season" for dogs too, and certain viruses and bacteria become active precisely when the weather cools and humidity increases. Changeable weather can expose dogs to colds, coughing, and other seasonal symptoms. When immune defences weaken, recovery from exertion also slows down.
In autumn, air humidity increases, the ground is wet, and dirt accumulates on paws and in the coat. Moisture weakens the skin's own protective layer, which can mean that skin infections, yeast, and bacteria get a foothold more easily. A wet coat and drafts predispose to upper respiratory infections ("dog colds"). Temperature fluctuations burden the dog's immune defences and make the dog more susceptible to viruses and bacteria. Young, old, and short-haired dogs in particular react more sensitively. Dog parks, muddy walking paths, and shared drinking bowls often mean more microbes and viruses. For example, kennel cough, gastrointestinal bugs, and eye infections spread more easily. Soil, fungi, and decaying vegetation contain many moulds and bacteria that can predispose to illness. In colder weather, metabolism changes and the diet may vary, which can weaken the gut's microbial balance (e.g., due to stress or feeding) and reduce immune defences. This is one reason why prebiotics and probiotics, as well as different antioxidants, can be useful in autumn.
Nutritional support for immune defences
Versatile feeding is the foundation of health. During autumn and winter, it is especially important to ensure that the animal receives enough immune-supporting nutrients from the diet:
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Omega-3 fatty acids – support the normal function of the immune system and the body's natural balance.
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Vitamin E and selenium – protect cells from oxidative stress.
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Zinc and biotin – maintain the condition of the skin and mucous membranes.
- Prebiotics and vitamin C – support the gut and the body's immune defence.
High-quality, vitamin-rich complementary feeds help support the dog's natural immune defences during seasonal changes.
From our selection you will find plant-based omega-3 products and other nutrient-rich complementary feeds that are suitable for daily use as part of normal feeding. With the right products, you can support recovery and promote the normal function of the coat, skin, and overall immune defence. Very often it is said that health starts in the gut, because effective digestion and a balanced microbial and bacterial population in the intestines support the dog's overall health and immune defence.
Keep immune defences strong throughout the season
When nutrition, rest, and conditions are in balance, the dog also copes better—also when "bug season" is at its worst. Add suitable complementary feeds to the diet and give your pet the best possible support for the challenges of autumn and winter.
The most common "autumn bugs" in dogs
1. Kennel cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex, CIRDC)
- A "dog cold" caused by a combination of several viruses and bacteria, such as:
- Bordetella bronchiseptica
- Canine parainfluenza virus
- Adenovirus type 2
- Mycoplasma spp.
- Symptoms: a dry, hacking cough, sometimes vomiting and a mild fever.
- Highly contagious in dog halls, shows, and dog parks.
- A vaccine (nasal spray or injection) provides good protection.
2. Canine parainfluenza
- One of the main factors in the kennel cough complex, spreads easily through the air.
- Symptoms: cough, nasal discharge, sometimes fever and loss of appetite.
3. Bacterial skin infections (e.g., Staphylococcus pseudintermedius)
- Pustular dermatitis or hotspots, which often occur in damp conditions (wet coat, mud).
4. Ear infections and yeast infections
- Increase with moisture and muddy seasons.
- Especially common in breeds with floppy ears and in dogs that swim.
