Siberian Husky Skin Disorders

The Siberian husky is one of the oldest breeds of dogs in existence and, despite inbreeding, are generally healthy. However, some have a genetic quirk that makes zinc absorption problematic. Zinc is a mineral needed to keep hair and skin healthy. This can lead to a variety of strange-looking but treatable skin disorders.

Zinc Deficiency

This is a condition that only happens to dogs with a lot of Siberian husky in them. Problems digesting zinc makes their fur thin and their skin crusty, particularly on the face.

Follicular Dysplasia

This causes baldness in many breeds, including Siberian huskies. It's thought to be caused by a malformation of the hairs themselves, particularly on the dog's hindquarters. It shows up when the husky puppy is 3 or 4 months old, and stays for life.

Sebaceous Adentitis

This genetic malfunction of the skin's oil glands happens to many breeds, including the Siberian husky. Symptoms are patchy hair loss and thick, scaly skin that can ooze skin oil when scratched.

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

This autoimmune problem happens to several breeds, including Siberian huskies. Basically, their black noses turn gray or pink, then the noses develop bleeding sores.

Canine Eosinophilic Granuloma

This can be seen in any breeds developed in the Arctic, including the Siberian husky. This causes little raised yellowish bumps along the inner thighs and the mouth of the dog. The dog's skin will be very itchy.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" (4th Edition)
• Eosinophillic Granuloma Complex
• Section from "Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology" on Siberian Huskies
• Canine Discoid Lupus Erythematosus