Canine atopic dermatitis (DAC) is one of the most common skin conditions in dogs, producing reactions such as intense itching, wounds as a result of scratching, rashes or redness of the skin. In this way, the owners of atopic dogs must provide the animal with specific skin care in order to alleviate the symptoms produced by the pathology and promote its emotional stability, since the fact of feeling constant discomfort can develop in the dog a state of stress and frustration.
Within the basic care for dogs with dermatitis, there is the modification of the diet, because an adequate diet can considerably favor the clinical picture and improve skin he alth. For this reason, in this article on our site we will talk about the feed for dogs with atopic dermatitis and we will indicate what to take into account.
Why does diet relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis?
As it is a skin condition, nutrition can help strengthen the immune system and repair damage to the skin more quickly. Bearing in mind that CAD produces intense itching, reddening of the dermis, irritation, inflammation and multiple wounds as a result of excessive scratching, an inadequate diet can worsen the clinical picture by causing the damaged tissues to not repair themselves correctly or by enhancing these reactions, in addition to produce dry skin and even flaking.
Because of all of the above, here are the criteria to take into account when selecting the food for a dog with atopic dermatitis and what to avoid so as not to worsen the situation.
What to take into account when choosing a food for dogs with CAD?
Modifying the diet of the dog with atopic dermatitis has three different objectives: to help restore damaged skin tissues, reduce itching and promote proper fur growth. To do this, it is important to check the composition of the feed and opt for a feed designed for atopic skin, such as the Atopic Care feed from Advance Veterinary Diets by Affinity, whose formula Helps reduce itching and restore skin he alth. In addition, it contains alternative protein that reduces the risk of allergic reactions and provides a great taste. But what are the recommended components? How should the diet be?
Rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
The deficiency of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids not only favors the development of canine atopic dermatitis, but also worsens the condition of the dog's dermis and harms the he alth of its coat. Thus, the consumption of these substances helps to relieve symptoms such as irritation and itching, and to repair the injuries caused. Opting for a diet rich in omega 3 and 6 is more than recommended, both for atopic dogs and for dogs without this skin condition.
The omega 3 fatty acid is found mainly in oily fish such as salmon or trout, in vegetable oils and green leafy vegetables. Omega 6 is also found mainly in vegetable oils.
With aloe vera
One of the most popular plants in the world for its healing properties, aloe vera has the ability to keep the lipid levels of the patient's epidermis balanced and, in general, to preserve the barrier Skin in perfect condition. In this way, it benefits the healing of injuries caused by scratching and favors the correct regeneration of the skin.
On the other hand, aloe vera is antibacterial, a fact that translates into the prevention of possible topical infections through wounds. Likewise, it has important moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, so relevant for relieving itching and irritation associated with atopic dermatitis in dogs.
Rich in biotin and collagen
Biotin, also known as vitamin B8, B7 or vitamin H, is a type of vitamin essential in the process of creating hemoglobin, regeneration of the cells of the skin tissues, hair and nails, and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and amino acids. For all these reasons, it is not surprising that an adequate diet for dogs with atopic dermatitis should contain biotin in its composition, since a deficit of it can increase the loss of hair of the affected dog and worsen the state of skin lesions. Where can we find it? In legumes, whole grains, brewer's yeast, nuts and other products such as carrots, potatoes or salmon liver.
For its part, collagen is a protein that is responsible for holding together the connective tissues of tendons, cartilage, joints, bones, muscles and skin, among others. Thus, it is an essential substance to maintain the correct he alth of the dermis and, therefore, if the dog with atopic dermatitis is fed with feed, it is recommended to opt for a product that contains collagen peptides.
With vitamin E
Vitamin E plays a fundamental role in preventing dog cell oxidation and the consequent skin care. Therefore, offering feed and diets rich in vitamins is mandatory to keep the animal he althy and strong. Likewise, vitamin E, in addition to favoring atopic dog's skin, reducing itching caused by dermatitis and accelerating the regeneration process of the dermis, helps to strengthen the immune system and also promotes eye he alth.
Foods such as green leafy vegetables, cereals such as rice or fruits such as avocado, are excellent natural sources of vitamin E.
What foods to avoid?
After reviewing the recommended compounds to alleviate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis in dogs, it is time to mention those foods that should be avoided to prevent the appearance of skin reactions. Since many cases of dermatitis are related to food allergies, it makes sense to ask your veterinarian to identify the food allergen, if any. Once found, it should be completely eliminated from the atopic dog's diet.
Food allergies usually occur after the consumption of a certain ingredient or food compound, not the product itself, the most common being beef proteins, chicken meat, dairy products, egg or wheatHowever, this is not an exact science and, therefore, there are also dogs that are allergic to specific fish proteins or cereals. For this reason, it is recommended to opt for manufactured and quality feed to facilitate the digestion of dogs and reduce the symptoms of dermatitis. If you want to follow a homemade diet, it must be the veterinarian who prepares it.
Is changing the diet enough to treat dermatitis in dogs?
Although there is no cure for atopic dermatitis , nutrition is the main element to alleviate the symptoms of the disease. However, to reinforce the effectiveness, it is recommended to opt for specific treats and treats that are part of your food routine.
Thus, it is advisable to opt for food supplements designed to reinforce the natural barrier of the epidermis and improve the appearance of the skin, rich in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, such as Affinity's Advance Veterinary Diets DermaForte nutritional supplements, which help strengthen the skin barrier, as well as being tender, tasty and effective.
Once the diet of the dog with atopic dermatitis has been adapted and approved by the veterinarian, a dermoprotective shampoo must be purchased as Affinity Advance Veterinary Diets Atopic Care Shampoo, with aloe vera, collagen and olive leaf extract to treat atopic skin and reduce itching, rash and skin irritation. On the other hand, because atopic dermatitis can also be caused by environmental factors and irritants such as pollen or dust, it should be analyzed whether these are the reason for the skin reaction to prevent the affected dog from coming into direct contact with these products.
