Calcium also binds zinc and zinc deficiencies can be produced when excess amounts of calcium are fed. Zinc is found in higher concentrations in meat and bone than it is in plant sources. The disease is divided into two different syndromes. Malamutes and huskies have a difficult time absorbing zinc and if they are stressed or fed a diet high in plant sources or high in calcium they may develop this condition. The condition presents with symptoms of hair loss and scaling and crusting of the skin around the face, head, and legs.
Lesions often encircle the mouth, chin, eyes, and ears.
The foot pads may be scaly and the haircoat is dull and dry. Puppies fed a deficient diet may also show these symptoms but may also be lethargic, anorexic, and be prone to secondary infections . Diagnosis is usually made by history, physical exam and response to zinc supplementation. Treatment with a zinc supplement usually resolves these symptoms within several weeks. Zinc toxicity Toxicities to zinc due to oversupplementation are very rare.