8 - Breed Nutrition

Borage oil, which is rich in
GLA, is incorporated in
products used to promote
the suppleness and elasticity
of the skin. It is especially
advisable for dogs whose
coat tends to feel greasy
(seborrhoea).
© J.-M. Labat
They are not stored in the body. Generally speaking, a balanced diet
and synthesis by intestinal bacteria ensure an adequate quantity in the
body. This synthesis may however be limited in the event of a large
water loss or antibiotic treatments.
The beneficial effect of feeding this complex is seen after around two
months.
Preventing any fatty acid deficiency
Whilst limiting the fat content in a food, it is important not to deprive the dog of
essential fatty acids, which the body is unable to synthesise. In the event of a deficiency
the skin suffers major desquamation, which is manifested by dandruff and an alteration
in the skin barrier function.
Essential fatty acids rebalance the composition of the superficial lipidic film to limit the skin
drying (Fray et al, 2004) and play a key role in maintaining good skin health. Long-chain
omega 3 fatty acids provided by fish oil (EPA and DHA*:
0.4% in Cocker 25) are widely used in human and
veterinary dermatology (Byrne et al, 2000).
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The balance of fatty acids is achieved through the association
of chicken fat, fish oil and vegetable oil (borage,
soy).
It is important to provide good nutritional support to
the skin in the face of environmental agents and
hypersensitivity reactions.