Whilst we get skin issues across the board in dogs; we can’t deny that certain breeds are more predisposed than others. But if we have a list in our mind of those dogs who we think are more likely to suffer, have we even considered that their coat type may play a role? We’re going to take a look at those double coated breeds specifically, and why they may suffer with skin challenges. The Canine Coat When we are discussing the canine coat, we include both the skin and hair/fur. Both have their own individual functions, and both are crucial to your dog’s ability to thrive. The skin is the largest organ of your dog’s body. It consists of three major layers: The Epidermis – (Epi – upon or above) this is the outer layer of skin, the protective layer. The Dermis – the dermis supports and nourishes the outer layer. It provides strength and elasticity. Here you will find collagen fibres, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. You will also find cells that release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when faced with an allergy or injury. The Subcutis – (sub meaning under or below) this is the innermost layer of the skin, where you will find fat and muscles. Subcutaneous fat provides insulation, padding and storage for reserve energy. Not only does the structure of the skin prevent water and electrolyte loss to help maintain body homeostasis, but it forms a protective barrier which helps protect against infections, parasites, and the elements. The hair sprouting from the follicles in the skin, known as hair or fur, also protects against harsh weathers, temperatures, and ultraviolet light damage. Double coats are generally termed fur and single coats are generally termed hair. Although, most owners, and groomers for that matter, use the phrases interchangeably. Double Coats vs. Single Coats Dogs can have primary and secondary hairs. Primary hairs are single hairs that grow from a follicle. If present, secondary hairs exit from the same follicle and you can have anywhere from 3-15 of them exiting alongside a primary hair from the same follicle. Primary hairs are often referred to as guard hairs or the outer coat and secondary hairs are referred to as the undercoat. Double coated breeds have both primary and secondary hairs, like the German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, Husky and Akita whereas single coated breeds simply have primary hairs, which include breeds like the Poodle or Bichon Frise. In double coated breeds, hair growth and the thickness of the undercoat is largely responsive to the environment. Cold months call for a thick undercoat where air can be trapped right next to the outer layer of the skin. Think of it like a wetsuit. A wetsuit works by trapping a thin layer of water between your body and the suit. This layer of water is then warmed by your body and water is a great conductor of heat! On the other side of this scale, warm months call for a thinner undercoat that is well-brushed and not impacted. This allows air to circulate, drawing cool air over the skin. A regular issue in double-coated breeds is an impacted undercoat. This is where the secondary hairs become matted. Air is unable to circulate, meaning it gets trapped and warmed up from the heat of the body. The issue is further compounded if you have a damp coat from rainy walks, dips in the pond or after the regular hydrotherapy session and in this scenario, skin health can be compromised. The Canine Skin Not only does the skin provide a barrier to the elements, but its very composition also provides an immunological and microbial barrier because of its bacterial community. This is known as its microbiome. The skin microbiome is made up of a range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. They usually function symbiotically; helpful microorganisms keep potentially harmful microorganisms in check. The issue is when there is an imbalance; we know this as dysbiosis. It has been established time and time again, when dogs and humans are suffering with red and itchy skin, there have been alterations in the skin microbiome. Generally, some bacteria have grown in numbers and others have reduced. A healthy skin microbiome is necessary for the correct function of mast cells founds in the dermis and mast cells mediate inflammatory responses like hypersensitivity and allergic reactions. Subsequently, those dogs suffering with atopic dermatitis are then more sensitive to environmental allergens. It is rather easy to see how skin issues can become so complex. Unfortunately, there are a range of things that can affect the composition of the skin microbiome: – Genes – Lifestyle, including nutrition – Environment – Family make up (other pets) – Personal and home hygiene In healthy dogs the most common bacteria are proteobacteria, closely followed by firmicutes, actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and cyanobacteria. Interestingly, healthy dogs have a higher community of beta proteobacteria ralstonia spp. than those dogs suffering with allergies. The type of bacteria also varies depending on the site of the body, for example, there will be different bacteria found between toe digits to that found in the groin area. Findings Here This is because all bacteria have their own needs to survive. They need food, water and the correct environment which includes a specific temperature, to them. Some bacteria will thrive in cooler temperatures, some prefer warmer climates. This is why we need to pay attention to the coat condition of your double coated breed. Your dog will have their own community of bacteria on their skin. Some bacteria will outnumber others. Which bacteria thrive will largely depend on your dog’s lifestyle, including nutrition. If your double coated breed has gotten wet on a rainy walk or loves swimming, they will get a damp coat. You may towel them off and allow them to dry off in front of the fire or radiator. Star fishing in a centrally heated home is quite far removed from the
We often talk about the highway between the gut and the brain, but it is probably more appropriate to think of the gut like a roundabout. If you live anywhere other than the UK, a roundabout is a road junction at which traffic moves in one direction around a central island to reach one of the roads converging onto it. In short, you have a number of roads branching off. We are learning more about the gut’s impact on the body every day, and along with a gut-immune axis, (one road off the roundabout), the gut-brain axis (another road off the roundabout), we also have a gut-skin axis. The gut-skin axis is becoming intertwined in a range of inflammatory skin issues in humans, and as our dogs also sadly suffer with many inflammatory skin issues, here at My Pet Nutritionist, we think the Gut-Skin Axis is worth exploring. So, let’s get cracking. The Skin The skin is the largest organ of your dog’s body. It consists of three major layers: The Epidermis – (Epi – upon or above) this is the outer layer of skin, the protective layer. The Dermis – the dermis supports and nourishes the outer layer. It provides strength and elasticity. Here you will find collagen fibres, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. You will also find cells that release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when faced with an allergy or injury. The Subcutis – (sub meaning under or below) this in the innermost layer of the skin, where you will find fat and muscles. Subcutaneous fat provides insulation, padding and storage for reserve energy. Not only does the structure of the skin prevent water and electrolyte loss to help maintain body homeostasis, but it forms a protective barrier which helps protect against infections, parasites, and the elements. This is the often-forgotten role of the skin – that it forms part of the immune system. It is this role that largely establishes the connection between the gut and skin. The Gut The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is one of the largest interfaces between the host and its environment, you only have to think of the sheer volume of food and (and other items) that pass through your dog’s GIT in their lifetime. For this reason, it must posses a strong barrier to prevent pathogens reaching the inner workings of the body. Skin Vs. Gut Barrier The gut and skin barrier share surprisingly many features. Both organs are highly innervated and vascularized, as they are both essential for immune and neuroendocrine function. The inner surface of the gut and the outer surface of the skin are both covered by epithelial cells (ECs) which have direct contact with the exogenous environment. This way, the immune system is continuously primed to distinguish between harmful and beneficial compounds. Immune cell priming starts early on in life and forms the basis of tolerance. Your Pet’s Immune System But, both the skin and gut also posses a microbiome and it is this, along with the interplay between them that influences their health. How Does The Gut Affect The Skin? We have largely established the impact the gut has on skin through bacterial supplementation. Study One Mice who received Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation experienced increased dermal thickness, enhanced folliculogenesis, and increased sebocyte production which manifested as thicker, shinier fur. Findings Here Study Two Oral supplementation of Lactobacillus brevis SBC8803 in rats demonstrated a significant decrease in transepidermal water loss, which is a marker of skin barrier function. This was also replicated in humans. Findings Here Study Three Volunteers who took Lactobacillus paracasei NCC2461 supplements for 2 months had decreased skin sensitivity. Findings Here Study Four Another study evaluated the impact of Bifidobacterium breve M-16V and Bifidobacterium longum BB536 administration over the time period of 1 month prenatally, 6 months during infancy, and a period of 18 months follow up on the management of allergic diseases in humans. The study concluded that the incidence of atopic dermatitis was lower in the probiotic administered cases, compared to controls. Findings Here Whilst these studies are promising, there are equally studies which conclude no significant effect on inflammatory skin disease when supplementing probiotics. More and more data is appearing suggesting that clinical significance is largely strain specific, and some studies simply researched the wrong strain. Equally, we understand that inflammatory conditions are multifactorial, and there is no silver bullet. But what these studies do show us is that what goes on in the gut, can influence skin health. We have found that the metabolites found in the gut (those produced from the fermentation of fibre for example) have effects on the gut and the skin. SCFA’s are seen to have anti-inflammatory effects in the gut and in the skin. GABA metabolites modulate neurotransmitter function but also restrict itching in the skin. Dopamine modulates neurotransmitter function but also inhibits hair growth in the skin. Acetylcholine also modulates neurotransmitter function but also influences barrier function in the skin. This is also demonstrated when we look at dietary implications in skin conditions, for example, in cases of atopic dermatitis, diets are frequently low in fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids and high in omega-6 fatty acids. Findings Here But when we see the comorbidity of skin and gut issues, it’s easy to wonder which came first and what’s super interesting is that we see a bidirectionality. Studies have demonstrated that food allergies may result from an impaired skin barrier: atopic dermatitis sensitizes to peanut allergy due to epicutaneous peanut protein exposure in household dust, leading ultimately to immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated mast cell expansion in the gut. Findings Here Whether the gut or skin comes first, what is clear is that we need to support the health of both. The intestinal and epidermal barriers are connected through systemic circulation (blood and lymph), so healthy circulation is important. This is where appropriate exercise comes in. But avoid over-exercising as this ramps up the stress response in our pets and can be detrimental to the
Amongst the foods marketed for pets, grain free is sitting front and foremost. Whilst we specialise in a range of health issues here at My Pet Nutritionist, we also consult on the most appropriate diets for pets. One of the questions we have been asked, does my dog need a grain free diet? Well, we see huge benefits to a whole or cooked fresh food diet, which is technically grain free, but we know this isn’t what you mean, so let’s take a look at where grain free diets came from and how they have found their way into many homes around the world. Grain Free Diets The concept of a grain free diet likely came from human literature. Grains are in fact a staple in many traditional diets, but a number of books appeared on bookshelves resulting in people cutting this food group out. Grains include wheat, spelt, rye, corn, millet, rice, sorghum, and oats. You’ll notice that both gluten and non-gluten grains are included. In addition, many people opted to cut out products derived from grains like rice syrup or high-fructose corn syrup (which is actually great!). There were a number of reasons for the demonisation of grains. Firstly they were thought to contribute to inflammation in the body, and therefore be a causative factor in many inflammatory conditions. This could be due to the lectin content found in grains. Lectins are often described as an antinutrient and as they are found in potatoes, beans, lentils, peas, soybeans, nightshade vegetables and you guessed it, grains. Lectins are carbohydrate binding proteins present in most plants, especially seeds and tubers like cereals, potatoes, and beans. Their original purpose was protection. They would produce an inflammatory response in the animal that ate them – so they wouldn’t eat them again. Humans and Dogs are largely unable to digest them, but friendly bacteria in the gut can lend a hand. At high dietary levels, it is thought that lectins cause damage to the structure of the brush borders of the small intestine. In lectin fed rodents, the mucosal membrane in the small intestine was stripped, compromising the gut integrity. This compromise has also been linked to abnormal bacterial proliferation. Findings Here Furthermore, some bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections contain lectins specific for the sugar mannose and use these lectins to bind tightly to mannose-rich tissue in the bladder walls – therefore initiating infection. D-mannose supplementation provides a decoy for these bacteria. Lectins also cause discharge of histamine from gastric mast cells which stimulates acid secretion – and as you know, we obviously need stomach acid, but in the right amounts – not too much, or too little. In addition, animal and cell studies have found that active lectins can interfere with the absorption of minerals, especially calcium, phosphorus, and However, lectins are most potent in their raw state, so cooking can inactivate most lectins. They are also water-soluble, so soaking also removes them too! Grains have also been linked to: Anxious and depressive behaviour Chronic pain However, most studies to date have considered these issues alongside gluten containing grains. Researchers have therefore concluded that the issue may in fact be relating to gluten as opposed to the grain. Grain free diets have been linked to weight loss, reduced inflammation, and modulated blood sugar levels. However, to fully understand the role of grain free diets, it’s pertinent to pick this apart a little further. Many grains contain a carbohydrate content, when grains are refined and processed, like those found in many commercial foods, they become a calorie-rich but nutrient poor food. With the removal of the grain, by default, the calorie content is reduced. This same premise applies to inflammation. It is well established that refined grain intakes have been positively associated with risk of metabolic diseases as well as with inflammatory protein concentrations. Refined grains are milled, a process that strips out both the bran and germ to give them a finer texture and longer shelf life. The refining process also removes many nutrients, including fibre. Refined grains include corn flour and white rice. Whole grains on the other hand haven’t had their bran and germ removed by milling; therefore, all of the nutrients remain intact. Whole grains are sources of fibre and other important nutrients, such as selenium, potassium, and magnesium. Whole grains include millet, bulgur, buckwheat, barley, and oatmeal. This is relevant when we consider how grain free diets have been linked to modulating blood sugar levels. Grains are naturally a source of carbohydrates. As we know, when carbohydrates are ingested, without naturally occurring fibre, they are digested very quickly, and pass into the blood stream. This results in a spike in blood sugar, which insulin must come and manage. Refined grains are devoid of fibre. Whole grains on the other hand are rich in fibre which may help stabilise blood sugar levels. The take home here is when we are looking at the benefits touted in grain free diets, we must consider the grains that are being referenced. Grain Free Diets and Dilated Cardiomyopathy You will have come across the FDA link between grain-free dry dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The issue is suggested to be related to a taurine deficiency. Cats and humans are among the few mammals whose bodies do not make taurine, and therefore must obtain it from their diet. In humans, taurine deficiency is rare because taurine is common in meat and fish food products. In the 1970’s, Quinton R. Rogers of UC Davis showed that a taurine deficiency could cause degeneration of the retina in cat’s eyes. Kittens born to taurine deficient mothers are often blind and show many abnormalities such as impaired gait. For this reason, in the 1980’s new cat feeding guidelines were introduced, stating a minimum level for taurine in cat food. But, in later years it was also found that taurine plays a role in regulating calcium entry into heart tissue every time it beats. Researchers
Evolution of the Slowest: The Struggle of the Cat in our Toxic Modern World How many of you have heard that cats are more sensitive to certain things than, dogs for example? If you are using essential oils, that you had to be particularly careful about which oils you used? It turns out there is in fact a biological reason for this sensitivity, and it is all to do with their detoxification pathways. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we want to explore this fact. We’re not talking about putting your cat on an aloe cleanse programme, but detoxification occurs all by itself, in humans, dogs and of course cats. So, what is detoxification Everyday, ours and our pet’s bodies are exposed to toxins. They are produced internally in the body, like lactic acid and waste products from gut microbes, hormones, and neurotransmitters and externally, like air pollution, chemicals from cleaning products or volatile organic compounds from the plug-in air diffuser in your lounge. It is thought that in the 25 years between 1970 and 1995, the volume of synthetic organic chemicals produced tripled from about 50 million tonnes to approximately 150 million tons, and this number has grown year on year since. Findings here These toxins can disrupt essential biological structures in the body, and in turn result in chronic health issues. What is a toxin? A toxin is defined as any substance that must be neutralised and eliminated to avoid its promotion of ill-health if left to accumulate. This is what detoxification does. Whilst toxins are generally deemed something in which to avoid, the body is producing waste products every second of every day in the form of used hormones, neurotransmitters, or oxidised lipids. This is why even if we manage our environments well, we still need to support our detoxification system, simply to eliminate the exhaust fumes of daily life. Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack. We can think of it like a waterfall, water will always find a way down. In a healthy system, toxins should always be able to find a way out. Initially, the body will attempt to detoxify at source. These locations include the intestinal mucosa, the respiratory mucosa, the microbiome, and the skin epidermis. Whilst these also provide a physical barrier to prevent toxin transport, they also express a range of enzymes which are essential in sweeping toxins away. Then, detoxification falls into three phases. The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For us to manage ours and our cat’s toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally. Phase I Here we are mostly concerned with a range of enzymes like MAOs or monoamine oxidases dealing with neurotransmitters (those chemical messengers involved in mood and behaviour amongst other things) and PON1 or paraoxonase 1 dealing with pesticides and oxidised lipids. The names aren’t important, but the point is, that at this stage the body needs to be efficiently producing these enzymes to metabolise the toxins. So, it stands to reason that this stage is particularly nutrient demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine, are essential. This phase also generates high numbers of reactive oxygen species, or ROS, leading to oxidative stress. Once toxins have been passed through phase I, they are not yet finished with. Intermediate metabolites are produced, and they sit in the body. It’s almost like putting your rubbish in the outside bin, but missing collection day. The rubbish remains. Liver Guard Welcome to phase II Within phase II there are number of pathways and they are all responsible for detoxifying different compounds. The pathways include: Methylation deals with heavy metals, plastics, medications, mould, histamine, and hormones, amongst others. This process requires nutrients like folate, vitamin B6, zinc and magnesium. The process of sulphation deals with heavy metals, heavy smoke, hormones, neurotransmitters, plastics, phenols, and medications including antibiotics. Glutathione conjugation deals with heavy metals, plastics, mould, heavy smoke, pesticides, and medications like steroids. Glutathione is a master antioxidant so is also important in neutralising the reactive oxygen species produced in phase I. Glucuronidation is involved in managing heavy metals, sex hormones, neurotransmitters, plastics, mould, alcohol, smoke, medications including paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, warfarin and immunosuppressants. Important nutrients here include vitamin B3, B6 and iron. Acetylation supports the detoxification of smoke, halides, tyramine, neurotransmitters, histamine, and medications including antibiotics. At this point, we move to Phase III Phase III deals with getting rid of them once and for all. This phase is carried out by the gut, skin, liver, and kidneys. All phases need to be working optimally for effective detoxification. Unfortunately, the domestic cat possesses certain genetic mutations which mean these detoxification pathways aren’t as efficient as they need to be. We first started to learn more about this when we realised that cats have a particular sensitivity to phenolic drugs like acetaminoprophen (paracetamol) and aspirin. It turns out that cats demonstrate an inactivation of the gene responsible for the phenol detoxification enzyme and it is thought that their diet played a role. Findings here Phenols are found in plants and as cats are hyper-carnivorous (they get everything they need from animal tissue), there served no evolutionary reason for them to be able to process these compounds. Cats evolved to detoxify environmental threats, not plants they would never choose to eat, nor human-made syntheticones (medications). The problem is, this enzyme is involved in a larger pathway, which deals with things like steroids, hormones, plastics, mould, heavy metals, and other medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. The bottom line? Cats metabolise these compounds at a much slower rate, meaning they are at risk of a build-up. This is why they appear more sensitive and are in fact at a higher risk of
The primary two functions of the skin is to act as a protective barrier and an immune barrier, between the body and its external environment, it keeps everything in, and prevents the entry of pathogens and allergens. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we have heavily focussed on the skin function and allergies so let’s take a look. A defective skin barrier is a key feature of the chronic inflammatory skin disease, atopic dermatitis and it has been noted that the protein filaggrin has a pivotal role in skin barrier function. Mutations with the FLG gene, which encodes filaggrin, strongly predisposes to conditions including atopic dermatitis and secondary allergic diseases. Whilst we always find these revelations in human literature, we have found that this also applies to dogs. So, let’s take a look at filaggrin in a little more detail and how there is a possibility that the skin issues faced by your dog may have a genetic origin. What is Filaggrin The term filaggrin, derived from filament-aggregating protein, was first coined in 1981 to describe a class of structural protein that had been isolated from the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis of the skin). Filaggrin is formed from the breakdown of profilaggrin, a protein contained in the granular layer of the upper epidermis. Filaggrin is vital for skin cells to mature properly into the tough, flat corneocytes that form the outermost protective layer of our skin known as the cornified cell envelope (CCE). It does this by binding together the rigid keratin filaments that form a structural skeleton within the cells. As a result, the cells collapse and become flattened. The CCE is constantly renewed by new cells formed in the basal layer of the epidermis. These gradually work their way to the top of the skin layers where they become corneocytes. They will then shed. Surrounding the corneocytes you will find a layer of lipids, which coat the CCE, keeping the skin waterproof, protected and supple. This also provides a protective layer, keeping out irritants and allergens. Without filaggrin, the CCE does not form correctly. Corneocytes dry out, and the lipid layer is lost. This results in dry, cracked skin and a permeability to the skin. Atopic dermatitis is characterised by these symptoms, and data has revealed an association between loss of functions of the filaggrin coding gene and this condition. In short, these conditions are more commonly noted in those with a mutant gene, than those without a mutant gene. What is particularly interesting is that the environment plays a role, not only in developing atopic disease, but also directly in FLG expression. It is regularly noted that exposure to irritants can reduce epidermal FLG levels and lead to an acquired filaggrin deficiency. The FLG deficiency, be it genetically determined or acquired, causes an altered epidermal structure and an impaired barrier function. Sadly, this allows penetration of environmental allergens into the skin, including house dust mites, pollen, bacteria, irritants, and toxicants but it also results in sensitisation of the host. The resultant alteration of the epidermis by way of increased pH, altered lipid secretion, modification of keratinocytes and reduction of antimicrobial peptides also then paves the way for the perfect environment for other bacteria and fungi to thrive, leading to recurrent skin infections, which you’ll have likely observed in cases of canine atopic dermatitis. Environmental and Inflammatory Factors known to alter the amount of Filaggrin: Humidity It seems there is a correlation between indoor humidity and disease severity. In human studies, in those children with atopic dermatitis and FLG mutations, their skin lesions are more often located in air-exposed skin areas. Interestingly, children with atopic disease experience a reduction in disease severity after one month spent in a humid climate. It seems that filaggrin and more filaggrin proteolysis is required in a dryer environment and for that reason, it is often concluded that children predisposed to atopic dermatitis should be encouraged to increase their indoor humidity. Findings here Mechanical damage Mechanical damage includes stretching, compression, and friction on skin cells. It not only affects the barrier function of the skin but also induces various immune responses, triggering inflammation at the site of the stress on the skin. For example, scratching of itchy lesions exacerbates the skin inflammation in atopic dermatitis. This increase in inflammatory mediators has been seen to down regulate filaggrin expression. Skin Irritants Studies have demonstrated that profilaggrin expression can be down regulated after application of experimental sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). In the 6 hours post exposure, it was noted that SLS in fact induced skin barrier defects. Findings here SLS is what’s known as a surfactant. This means it lowers the surface tension between ingredients, which is why it’s used as a cleansing and foaming agent. You will find SLS in a range of human products and may find it in some dog grooming products. It is generally what makes them foam. Human Products: Hand sanitiser Makeup remover Liquid hand soap Shampoo Conditioner Styling gel Bubble baths Dental care products like toothpaste Anti-itch creams Sunscreen You may also find it as a food additive in certain products, it is used to mix acids with other liquids, or as an emulsifier or thickener. Dog Grooming Products: Shampoo Conditioner Detangler Conditioning balms Deodorising sprays Cologne It is also worth noting that some shampoos specifically prescribed or advertised for use in atopic disease also contain SLS, amongst other ingredients. The issue is that when products reduce filaggrin expression, it disrupts the skin barrier, making it permeable to other toxicants and irritants, creating a vicious cycle. What you choose to apply to your dog’s coat and skin is just as important as what you put into their body through their diet. Not only that, but whilst you may not be applying human products directly to your dog, they may come into contact with them through exposure to soft furnishings or you. In the hopes to create a mechanical barrier, without harsh chemicals being used, there are certain topical products
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, skin issues are one of the most common complaints from dog owners. Whilst there are a number of factors that can result in not-so-comfortable skin for your companion, there are also some top tips that can start you off the right foot. So, let’s take a look at the skin in a little more detail and what can do to promote its health. The skin is the largest organ of your dog’s body. It consists of three major layers: The Epidermis – (Epi – upon or above) this is the outer layer of skin, the protective layer. The Dermis – the dermis supports and nourishes the outer layer. It provides strength and elasticity. Here you will find collagen fibres, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. You will also find cells that release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when faced with an allergy or injury. The Subcutis – (sub meaning under or below) this in the innermost layer of the skin, where you will find fat and muscles. Subcutaneous fat provides insulation, padding and storage for reserve energy. Not only does the structure of the skin prevent water and electrolyte loss to help maintain body homeostasis, but it forms a protective barrier which helps protect against infections, parasites, and the elements. This is the often-forgotten role of the skin –that it forms part of the immune system. We have three lines of defence in the immune system: The first line of defence are the physical barriers, the skin and mucous membranes of the gut and respiratory tract. The second line of defence is defined as innate immunity. This system surveys and neutralises pathogens by mounting an inflammatory response. This system communicates with the third line of defence which is adaptive immunity. Adaptive immunity provides a specific and tailored response, deploying T and B cells. Ultimately, for us, or our dogs to survive and thrive, we, and they need robust immune defences, so it makes sense to want to strengthen our first line as much as possible. 1) Sleep! In the dermis of your dog’s skin, you will find connective tissue which contains collagen. Collagen fibres play a vital role in maintaining structural integrity and it is supported by hyaluronic acid (in ageing human, skin hyaluronic acid is often absent leading to the presence of fine lines and wrinkles). Cortisol, however, significantly decreases the synthesis of hyaluronic acid. Findings here As we know, cortisol is one of the main stress hormones, released in times of fight or flight. In short, stress results in lower hyaluronic acid, impacting collagen and therefore skin structure. There are many stress triggers for your canine companion, but lack of sleep is often missed. Not only does low sleep duration influence the perception of stress for days following, but sleep deprivation is in fact a form of neurobiological and physiological stress (or torture, for us at My Pet Nutritionist). In 1894, Marie De Manaceine was fascinated with sleep deprivation. She had established that mental disturbance resulted from partial insomnia, but she wanted to know more. So, in her Lab, she recruited puppies. 10 to be specific; aged 2, 3 or 4 months old. Whilst they continued to be fed by their mother, she kept them in constant activity. In short, she deprived them totally of sleep. After 96-120 hours, the puppies were irreparably lost. We shed a tear when we read this! What is interesting (despite it being macabre), is that when puppies were starved, they could be saved after 20-25days. This wasn’t possible when they were sleep deprived. Marie found that sleep deprivation significantly affected the puppy’s brains. When they were starved, the brain was left almost spared. But, in the absence of sleep; fat degeneration, blood vessel abnormalities and haemorrhaging occurred. Findings here In a world that never sleeps, both us and our dogs really need to. Adult dogs, in a laboratory setting, when left, will sleep on average for around 13 hours per day. Puppies can sleep anywhere between 18-20 hours per day. Dogs are diurnal, meaning they are active during daylight hours. Rest occurs during dark periods with activity increasing the two hours before light. Dogs have a natural rest period around noon and then reduced activity during the afternoon. Findings here Interestingly, the experiences that your dog has, can affect the type and quality of sleep they experience. Studies have found that after a negative experience, dogs will fall asleep more quickly. It is thought that this is a protective sleep, in response to stress. This should be in the forefront of your mind. It is all too easy to attribute an “exhausted” dog to the busyness of the day. Be mindful, their sleeping habits could be more indicative of their experience. Findings here Sleep is vital for your dog’s overall health, but also in helping their body synthesise the compounds it needs to build a robust skin. Build in plenty of rest time for your dog, at the times they would naturally do so. 2) Feed Fresh Food! We probably sound like a stuck record here at My Pet Nutritionist, but fresh really is best! Processed, high glycaemic index foods wreak havoc with skin! There are a few different reasons, but glycation is one of them. Glycation is the modification of proteins or lipids after exposure to sugars. You may notice them referenced as AGEs, advanced glycation end products. Glycation leads to a loss of protein function and impaired elasticity of tissues like blood vessels, tendons and of course skin. AGEs have been associated with many metabolic disorders and are closely related with renal failure and diabetes. They also increase with age. AGEs can be synthesised in the body, but total load also includes dietary exposure. It is clear that foods ranking high on the glycaemic index result in a higher accumulation of AGEs. Not only that, but maillard reactions, those generated in the heat processing of foods, also result in AGEs. Another reason why
