Zinc is the second-most important trace mineral for dogs. Zinc deficiency can cause skin and organ problems as well as seizures. It is vital that your dog gets enough zinc from their diet. This can be done by eating the right foods.
Nulo Limited Ingredient Grain Free Dry Food is the best commercial dog food that’s high in zinc. This kibble is high in zinc methionine which is a highly absorbable form. This kibble is suitable for Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky breeds, which require more zinc than others.
This article will discuss zinc deficiencies in dogs, including the benefits and disadvantages of commercial dog food and raw foods, as well as the importance of eating a zinc-rich diet.
The Top 5 Dog Foods High In Zinc
Here is a list of zinc-rich commercial dog foods. These were chosen based on customer reviews, the quality of zinc, and veterinary advice.
NameNulo Limited Ingredient Dry FoodPurina One Smartblend Natural Puppy FoodPurina Pro-Plan Dog Food for Sensitive Skin, Stomach and Stomach.
Overall, Nulo Limited Ingredient Grain Free Dry Food is the best
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Nulo Limited Ingredient Grain Free Dry Food is the best commercial dog food to treat zinc deficiency. Zinc sulfate and zinc methionine are high in this salmon-based dry food.
Pros
It has a smaller ingredient list which allows dogs to digest the food properly without interfering.
Cons
It is relatively expensive
Purina Pro Plan Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach and Skin: Best Value Buy
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The Purina Pro Plan Food for Sensitive Stomach and Skin is the most cost-effective. This healthy dog food is delicious and much more affordable than any other on the list.
Pros
This product is more affordable than other products on this page. One of the main ingredients is salmon. It is rich in zinc-rich fish oils.
Cons
It contains only zinc sulfate. This isn’t as bioavailable and may cause your pet to not like it. Some owners reported finding bugs in the bag.
Best for Puppy: Purina One Smartblend Natural Puppy Food
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The Purina One Smartblend Natural Puppy food is ideal for younger dogs. This dry food is designed for large-breed puppies who, like their adult counterparts, require more zinc.
Pros
Contains 0.005 oz/220 lbs (150 mg/kg) of zincHas a high amount of antioxidantsSpecially formulated for puppiesHigh in protein, which is good for growing dogsUses chicken as the main ingredient
Cons
Zinc sulfate is the only form of zinc. It’s not as bioavailable as other forms of zinc.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Adult Dry Food is Best for Large/Giant Breeds
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Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Adult Dry Food provides the best source of zinc for large dog breeds. Blue Buffalo is known for producing high-quality products. This one is no exception.
Pros
Zinc amino acid chelate and zinc sulfate are both included. A well-known brand that makes high-quality dog food. Available in salmon or chicken without grains flavors. Perfect for naturally zinc-deficient breeds such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes.
Cons
This is one of the most expensive options. You may have to give it to your dog in very small amounts to ensure they aren’t sensitive.
The Best Natural Ingredients: Taste of Wild Roasted Bison, Venison Dry Food
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The Taste of the Wild Roasted Bison & Venison Dry Food is the best dog food. This dry food is made with bison andvenison, two zinc-rich meats that are dog-friendly. It is loved by dogs for its incredible flavor.
Pros
Zinc proteinate and zinc sulfurate are contained. Has a high zinc content of 0.005 Oz/220 Pounds (150 mg/kg). Bison meat is high in bioavailable, high-quality zinc. It is also high in protein.
Cons
This brand is not specifically made for large breeds. A 2019 FDA report has linked this brand with chronic heart disease in dogs.
Comparing commercial dog food with raw zinc-deficient food
Dog owners tend to stick with commercial dog food, while some prefer to feed their dogs a natural diet. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. The most bioavailable forms of zinc are generally found in higher levels in the raw form.
Here is a list of raw foods rich zinc:
BeefPorkChickenSalmonOysterChickpeasPeanutsLambBisonTurkeyKale SeaweedSpinach
The highest amounts of bioavailable zinc are found in the raw form of the foods mentioned above. These food sources will be found in most commercial dog foods.
Dogs with zinc deficiency should eat raw foods. You can use commercial dog food to help with zinc deficiency. Mixing raw food and dry food can cause stomach irritation.
Zinc is an important ingredient in dogs’ diets
Zinc is second only to iron as a vital trace mineral in dogs’ diets. Dogs cannot store zinc naturally so you will need to feed them zinc-rich food to maintain their zinc levels. These are some benefits of zinc for dogs.
Improves skin health
Mast cell function is influenced by zinc. The skin, mucosal linings of the lungs, and the gut are the main locations for mast cells. They are essential for adaptive immunity which helps to reduce allergic reactions and inflammation. Zinc deficiency can lead to skin diseases, allergies, inflammation, skin disease and itchiness.
As an Antioxidant
Free radicals are created when the body creates new cells. This is a type of “rogue cell structure” closely linked to the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases, cancer and other organ problems. Antioxidants prevent the formation of free radicals and damage to the body.
Zinc is also an antioxidant and helps to prevent cancerous cells from forming. It also improves organ health.
Enhances Brain Function
A lack of zinc has been linked to neurological disease, abnormal behavior, and a dysfunctional central nervous system. A proper neurological and physiological development is dependent on adequate zinc intake, especially in puppies.
These are the most common neurological signs of zinc deficiency.
Sudden behavioral changeSigns of depressionIncreased anxietyIncreased aggressionInterference in the sense of smell and tasteLethargy
Aggression is not a sign that your dog has zinc deficiency. If your dog behaves badly because of zinc deficiency, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
Increases immunity
To function properly, the cells that make up the immune system need to be supplied with zinc regularly. Zinc is essential for the body’s ability to stabilize cell membranes. A deficiency could result in a dysfunctional immune system. This could lead to either an under-functioning or hyper-reactive immune systems.
A weak immune system can’t fight off infections and diseases. A hyper-reactive immune system, on the other hand would recognize any foreign substance as a threat and treat it accordingly. A faulty immune system could cause your dog’s illness.
Zinc benefits beyond the obvious
A good zinc intake can have many benefits, including the benefits for eye health, hormonal balance, thyroid function and other areas. Hypothyroidism is a common condition in dogs. It occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones.
Zinc deficiency symptoms in dogs
One of the problems with diagnosing a dog suffering from zinc deficiency in dogs is that their early symptoms can be confused with other common issues. Many dog owners mistake zinc deficiency symptoms for milder conditions.
Here is the typical progression of symptoms for zinc deficiency in dogs. You should keep in mind that not all dogs will experience the same symptoms. Some dogs might not show certain symptoms at all. Ask your vet to perform a skin biopsy in order to diagnose zinc deficiency.
Permanent Digestive Issues/Lack of Appetite
Zinc deficiency can cause digestive problems like vomiting, diarrhea, and persistent loss of appetite. These symptoms can be difficult to connect to zinc deficiency as they are often seen as behavioral issues or signs of “picky eating”.
These symptoms can also be found in other diseases that affect dogs. If these symptoms are your only signs, you should not jump to conclusions or attempt to diagnose the problem. If the problem persists for more than a few days you should contact your veterinarian and have tests done to rule out the cause.
Zinc Responsive Dermatosis
Zinc responsive dermatologis is a condition in which the skin develops dry, crusty lesion around the eyes, mouth, groin and paws. This is often mistakenly thought to be allergic reactions or hot spots. However, a zinc deficiency could be the reason.
These lesions may disappear after you apply a zinc-rich cream to the area. However, they will reappear if the cream is removed. You can only give your dog zinc-rich dog food as a long-term solution.
Malfunctioning Immune System
Zinc is essential for the proper functioning and health of your dog’s immune systems. Zinc is essential for your dog’s immune system to function properly. Without it, your pet will suffer from an under- or over-functioning immune system. A veterinarian is the best way to determine if your dog has an immune system problem.
Dogs with a weak immune system will often fall ill. The immune system is weak and cannot fight off infections. It could be an indication of an underperforming immune response if your dog gets multiple infections quite often.
Hyper-reactive immune systems is exactly the opposite. This immune system treats foreign substances as threats and tries to combat them. Your dog might get fevers that seem to be unrelated.
Organ Failure or Seizures
Seizures and organ failure are the most severe symptoms of zinc deficiency. These symptoms usually appear only after the previous ones, and only if the dog has a dangerously low level of zinc. You can prevent your dog reaching this stage by making sure your dog has a steady intake of zinc and taking him to the vet for regular checks.
Last Thoughts
Zinc is important for healthy skin, hair, and hormonal balance. Zinc is not stored in the body so your dog must get it regularly. Below are the top five zinc-rich dog foods.
Best Overall: Nulo Limited Ingredient, Grain-Free Dry FoodBest Buy: Purina Proplan Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach and SkinBest for Puppies : Purina One Smartblend Natural Puppy FoodBest For Large or Giant Breeds : Blue Buffalo Wilderness High protein Large Breed Adult Dry FoodBest Natural Ingredients : Taste of Wild Roasted Bison Dry Food and Venison Dry Food
