Zinc is among the most important trace elements a dog needs. Zinc has numerous roles in the body: it is connected, among other things, to the dog's energy metabolism and hormonal function, it supports the function of vitamin A, and it enhances wound healing. Zinc is recommended especially for dogs suffering from skin issues and from poor coat or nail quality. Zinc can also strengthen the dog's skin. A dog's daily zinc requirement is 1–2 mg/kg, depending on exertion level and need.
For dogs, meat is the best source of zinc, but despite this, especially raw-fed dogs often struggle to get enough zinc. Some dry foods contain added zinc, but it is not always sufficient; it may be present only in small amounts, or it may be poorly absorbed, in which case a high-quality zinc supplement may be needed. In the pet food industry, inexpensive, artificial vitamin and mineral premixes are often used, and their absorption in the body is weaker than that of natural nutrients obtained directly from food.
Symptoms of zinc deficiency in dogs include, among other things, a poor coat or hair loss, cracked paw pads, bald patches around the eyes, wounds that heal poorly, itchy and flaky skin, immune system disturbances (including allergies and other inflammations), licking, nervousness, and general fatigue. Poor nails can also indicate a lack of zinc. Zinc requirements increase during pregnancy and lactation and also in hard work or due to stress. In long-haired dogs especially, zinc needs can be doubled during shedding, because keratin production is at its highest when the coat is renewing and being replaced. At that time, a B vitamin supplement is often also needed.
Zinc regulates, among other things, the insulin sensitivity of the body's cells and thus the body's carbohydrate metabolism. Zinc deficiency causes reduced insulin levels after eating and thereby weakens the body's ability to use carbohydrates. This, in turn, may worsen recovery from training and muscle development.
Older dogs also have an increased need for zinc, and in addition many atopic or allergy-prone dogs that show symptoms through their skin benefit from a zinc supplement.
Zinc and muscles
Most of the zinc (50–60%) is in the muscles. The more and the harder a dog exercises, the more essential it is to consider its dietary needs more carefully. For example, excessive calcium and copper intake reduces zinc absorption in the body. Zinc may support healthy blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and increasing antioxidant levels, which are important, for example, for dogs suffering from muscle problems.
7 reasons to feed zinc to your dog:
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Antioxidant protection: zinc supports antioxidant defence. Antioxidant enzymes convert harmful oxidants or free radical particles into neutral, harmless compounds. Cells naturally produce free radicals when nutrients are broken down into energy, but over time these can damage cells. By improving antioxidant levels, zinc protects against premature ageing and supports healthy tissues and cells.
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Nails: the right balance between zinc and copper helps support keratin synthesis. Keratin is needed for nail renewal
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Immune function: zinc helps immune cells respond to infections. When an infection is detected, blood zinc levels decrease as immune cells and the liver take up this mineral. With zinc, immune cells can send signals to other cells to coordinate an immune response. It is assumed that adding zinc to a diet that is otherwise fairly low in zinc for dogs may improve immune response.
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Skin health: dogs suffering from zinc deficiency may have various skin abnormalities, such as flaking, cracking paw pads, or wounds that heal poorly. This may be due to a weakened immune system. A well-functioning immune system fights pathogens more effectively. Sufficient zinc in the diet can support healthy skin and improve coat quality and shine.
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Joint health: zinc is needed to produce the collagen protein, which makes up most of the tendons and ligaments in the joints. It is also needed for cartilage production. Organic trace elements are better able to support collagen production in joints than inorganic minerals.
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Coat quality: zinc participates in the production of the keratin protein, which is the most abundant protein in hair. Keratin is also responsible for the structure of the hair.
- Appetite: zinc deficiency can cause poor appetite, weight loss, and poor growth. This is linked to chemical changes in the brain's hypothalamus, which regulates food intake. Zinc supplementation has been shown to stimulate appetite and support weight gain in people with anorexia. Ensuring sufficient zinc intake in dogs can support normal appetite and healthy weight gain.
Zinc overdose is very rare. The best sources of zinc are therefore mineral feeds and dietary supplements. Flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and brewer's yeast are fairly good sources of zinc. Bran also contains a relatively high amount of zinc.
Sources:
- Marreiro, DN et al. Zinc and Oxidative Stress: Current Mechanisms.
- Chausmer, Arthur B. Zinc, Insulin and Diabetes. J Am Col Nutr. 1998.
- Cruz, KJC et al. The Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Insulin Resistance in Obese Subjects: a Systematic Review. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2016.
- Baltaci, KA and Mogulkoc, R. Leptin and zinc relation: In regulation of food intake and immunity. Ind J Endo Met. 2012.
- Mills, CF. Dietary interactions involving the trace elements. Annu Rev Nutr. 1985.
- Marsh et al. 2000: K.A. Marsh, F.L. Ruedisueli, S.L. Coe, T.G.D. Watson: Effects of zinc and linoleic acid supplementation on the skin and coat quality of dogs receiving a complete and balanced diet. Dermatology Vol 11, Issue 4, p. 277–284, Dec. 2000. DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3164.2000.00202.x
