Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis (ZRD) is an inherited disease found in Alaskan Malamutes,
Samoyeds, Siberian Huskies, Bull Terriers and American Eskimo Dogs.

ZRD will cause your dog to have scaly skin, skin lesions, and thinning fur. Your dog will also be itchy.

ZRD is caused by a zinc deficiency. Although improper nutrition can cause ZRD, some dogs given proper nutrition still contract ZRD. Thus, it is assumed – though at this point not conclusively proven – that there is a genetic component to the disease.

A biopsy is required to diagnose ZRD.

Dogs with zinc-responsive dermatosis usually respond well to oral zinc supplementation.

Proper nutrition may help prevent the onset of ZRD.

No, you cannot contract ZRD from your dog.