Best Dog Food for Autoimmune Diseases in Dogs: A Focus on Plant-Based Nutrition

· by Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics

Best Dog Food for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease Plant Based Nutrition

Diets for Dogs with Autoimmune Diseases – Nutritional Management

Summary
Autoimmune diseases in dogs arise when the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and organ dysfunction. Autoimmune conditions such as Immune-Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia (IMHA), autoimmune thyroiditis, and joint-related diseases like rheumatoid arthritis require specific dietary interventions. A plant-based diet rich in anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory foods, nutrients, and herbs is key to managing these diseases. This article explores the best options for supporting autoimmune health in dogs, highlights specific foods most beneficial for certain autoimmune conditions, and discusses which foods and supplements should be avoided.

Table of Contents

What is Autoimmune Disease in Dogs?

  • Overview of Autoimmune Diseases
  • How Diet Can Support Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Best Foods for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

  • Anti-inflammatory Plant-Based Foods
  • Antioxidative Plant-Based Foods
  • Mechanisms of Action of Bioactive Compounds

Best Nutrients for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids
  • Vitamin E
  • Selenium
  • Zinc

Best Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

  • Bacillus velezensis and Other Probiotics
  • Prebiotics: Fibre-Rich Plant Sources
  • MOS (Mannan-Oligosaccharides) and Beta-Glucans
  • Postbiotics: Immunomodulatory Compounds and Their Role

Best Supplements for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA, DHA)
  • L-Glutamine
  • Quercetin
  • Probiotics and Postbiotics
  • Yucca schidigera

Best Herbs and Spices for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Best Adaptogens for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

  • Ashwagandha
  • Reishi Mushroom
  • Holy Basil (Tulsi)
  • Rhodiola

Foods, Supplements, Herbs, and Spices to Avoid

  • Harmful Foods (Processed, Pro-Inflammatory, Allergenic)
  • Supplements to Avoid
  • Toxic Herbs and Spices

Best Foods, Nutrients, and Phytonutrients for Specific Autoimmune Conditions

Conclusion

What is Autoimmune Disease in Dogs?

Overview of Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies the body’s own tissues as foreign and attacks them. This leads to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and compromised function in various organs and systems. Common autoimmune diseases in dogs include:

Managing these conditions requires a multifaceted approach, and diet plays a critical role.

How Diet Can Support Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

A plant-based diet rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidative compounds can help manage chronic inflammation, support immune regulation, and reduce the progression of autoimmune damage. Certain foods and nutrients can benefit specific autoimmune conditions, as discussed later in this article.

Best Foods for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Anti-inflammatory Plant-Based Foods

For autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, managing inflammation is essential. Foods with strong anti-inflammatory properties include:

  • Blueberries: Anthocyanins reduce joint inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
  • Turmeric: Curcumin inhibits inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2, particularly beneficial for joint-related autoimmune diseases.
  • Chia Seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds regulate immune response and reduce systemic inflammation.
  • Kale and Spinach: These greens contain vitamins A, C, and K, which help maintain immune balance and support joint health.

Antioxidative Plant-Based Foods

Antioxidants are critical in reducing oxidative damage caused by autoimmune diseases. Key antioxidative foods include:

  • Flaxseeds: Omega-3 fatty acids and lignans help reduce inflammation and protect against cellular damage in dogs with conditions like IMHA and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Pumpkin: High in beta-carotene and fibre, which support digestive and immune health while reducing oxidative damage.

Mechanisms of Action of Bioactive Compounds

  • Anthocyanins (Blueberries, Cranberries): Neutralise free radicals that damage joint tissues.
  • Curcumin (Turmeric): Inhibits pro-inflammatory enzymes and reduces oxidative damage in joints.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Chia Seeds, Flaxseeds): Modulate immune responses and reduce joint inflammation.

Best Nutrients for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA from marine algae, are essential in managing inflammation across a range of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Vitamin E

This antioxidant helps protect immune cells from oxidative damage and is crucial for reducing inflammation in autoimmune thyroiditis and lupus. (1)

Selenium

Selenium helps modulate immune function and reduces oxidative stress, particularly important for dogs with autoimmune thyroiditis. (2)

Zinc

Zinc supports immune cell function and is essential for wound healing and tissue repair, particularly for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. (3)

Best Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Bacillus velezensis and Other Probiotics

Bacillus velezensis is known for its immunomodulatory properties, helping to balance the gut microbiome and reduce systemic inflammation. This strain, along with others like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, is beneficial for dogs with autoimmune thyroiditis and lupus.

Prebiotics: Fibre-Rich Plant Sources

Prebiotic fibres such as inulin, FOS and resistant starch support the gut microbiome and are important for maintaining immune balance, especially in dogs with autoimmune digestive complications.

MOS (Mannan-Oligosaccharides) and Beta-Glucans

MOS and beta-glucans enhance immune function by supporting beneficial bacteria and modulating immune responses. Beta-glucans, found in oats and mushrooms, are particularly helpful in conditions like IMHA and rheumatoid arthritis, as they reduce inflammation and improve immune regulation.

Postbiotics: Immunomodulatory Compounds and Their Role

Postbiotics, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), play a vital role in reducing inflammation and enhancing immune function, making them highly beneficial for managing autoimmune joint conditions and digestive issues.

Best Supplements for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA, DHA)

Omega-3s from marine algae reduce inflammation in dogs with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, improving joint health and reducing systemic inflammation.

L-Glutamine

Glutamine helps repair the gut lining, reducing inflammation in the digestive system, which is often compromised in dogs with autoimmune diseases like lupus.

Quercetin

A powerful flavonoid that reduces histamine production, quercetin is particularly helpful in managing autoimmune thyroiditis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Yucca schidigera

This plant extract is excellent for reducing ammonia levels and joint inflammation, making it particularly beneficial for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis and other joint-related autoimmune conditions.

Best Herbs and Spices for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Turmeric

Curcumin, found in turmeric, is a potent anti-inflammatory compound beneficial for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, as it reduces joint inflammation and systemic inflammation.

Ginger

Gingerol, the active component in ginger, has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. It is beneficial for managing inflammation in dogs with rheumatoid arthritis and IMHA, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Boswellia

Boswellic acids found in Boswellia serrata help inhibit enzymes that cause inflammation, making it an excellent choice for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Milk Thistle

Silymarin, the active compound in milk thistle, supports liver function and detoxification. It is particularly helpful for dogs with autoimmune thyroiditis and lupus, as it reduces oxidative stress on the liver, especially when the dog is on long-term medication.

Rosemary

Rosemary contains rosmarinic acid, which has antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, particularly beneficial for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis.

Best Adaptogens for Dogs with Autoimmune Disease

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha contains withanolides that help modulate stress responses and regulate immune function. It is particularly useful for dogs with lupus and autoimmune thyroiditis, where stress plays a role in exacerbating the disease.

Reishi Mushroom

Polysaccharides and triterpenes in reishi mushrooms reduce chronic inflammation and enhance immune function. This adaptogen is especially beneficial for dogs with IMHA and rheumatoid arthritis.

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Ursolic acid in holy basil helps reduce oxidative stress and regulate immune responses. It is particularly useful for dogs with autoimmune thyroiditis and rheumatoid arthritis, where reducing inflammation is essential.

Rhodiola

Rhodiola improves stress tolerance and immune resilience, making it ideal for dogs with lupus or other stress-induced autoimmune flare-ups.

Foods, Supplements, Herbs, and Spices to Avoid

Harmful Foods

  • Grains (wheat, corn, soy): Can exacerbate inflammation and trigger allergic responses, particularly harmful for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis or IMHA.
  • Processed Foods: Contain additives that can worsen inflammation, especially in dogs with joint-related autoimmune diseases.
  • Red Meat: High in saturated fats, which can increase inflammation in dogs with lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Nightshades (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants): Contain solanine, which may worsen inflammation in dogs with rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Dairy Products: Common allergens that may trigger immune responses in dogs with autoimmune thyroiditis.

Supplements to Avoid

  • Immunostimulants (colostrum): May overstimulate an already overactive immune system, worsening conditions like IMHA or lupus.
  • High-Dose Vitamin A and D: Excessive amounts of these fat-soluble vitamins can lead to toxicity and exacerbate immune-mediated conditions such as autoimmune thyroiditis.

Toxic Herbs and Spices

  • Garlic: Can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, especially harmful for dogs with autoimmune blood disorders like IMHA.
  • Onion: Contains compounds that can cause haemolytic anaemia in dogs, especially in those with pre-existing autoimmune conditions.
  • St. John’s Wort: Interferes with medications and may overstimulate the immune system in dogs with autoimmune diseases.
  • Echinacea: Though very beneficial for short-term immune boosting, it can overstimulate the immune system so should be administered in low doses if fed regularly .

Best Foods, Nutrients, and Phytonutrients for Specific Autoimmune Conditions

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Omega-3 fatty acids (chia seeds, flaxseeds, algae), turmeric, and ginger reduce joint inflammation.
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Selenium (from Brazil nuts), milk thistle, and holy basil support immune modulation and reduce oxidative stress.
  • Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anaemia (IMHA): Flaxseeds, quercetin, and reishi mushrooms help modulate the immune system and protect red blood cells.
  • Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Vitamin E, zinc, selenium, and ashwagandha regulate thyroid function and reduce inflammation.

Conclusion

A plant-based diet rich in anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory compounds is vital for managing autoimmune diseases in dogs, particularly those affecting the joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium, along with specific probiotics, prebiotics (including MOS and FOS), and postbiotics, help reduce inflammation and support immune regulation.

Herbs and adaptogens like turmeric, ginger, boswellia, and ashwagandha provide additional anti-inflammatory support and stress management, while avoiding pro-inflammatory and toxic foods is essential for preventing flare-ups. The combination of a well-planned diet, targeted supplements, and adaptogens can significantly improve the quality of life for dogs with autoimmune diseases.

Always consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure the dietary plan is suitable for your dog’s specific condition.

Bonza Superfoods and Ancient Grains plant-based dog food has been formulated by vets, canine nutritionists and expert canine herbalists to provide dogs with full body health support. It contains numerous high quality ingredients to support the gut-brain axis and immune health of dogs including anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, medicinal herbs and spices and Omega-3 with EPA, DHA and DPA.

The formulation includes:

Shop Bonza Superfood Now

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About Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics

I have had dogs from the day I was born. Much to my Mum's amusement, my Dad bought home Zetta, a beautiful corgi puppy on the day, as his contribution to our new family!

Fast forward to 2018 and Catherine, my wife, and one of our dogs Poppy, were both diagnosed and treated for cancer within months of each other

Diet and its impact on health, cancer particularly, led me down a rabbit hole of discovery.

I consumed information voraciously - on our diets, our dogs' diets and the impact these have not just on health but also the health of our increasingly fragile planet.

I was humbled by the time and expertise given so freely by doctors and vets, canine nutritionists and scientists, academics and agronomists. The more I learned the more I understood there had to be a better way to improve not just our health but also our dogs and the planet's.

The result of my trip down that rabbit hole is Bonza, a plant-based dog food that elevates our dogs' diet beyond simple nutrition to a diet that inspires a healthier everyday life for our dogs and the planet.

I am continually researching the nutritional impact our dogs' diets have on their health and wellbeing and the ingredients and nutrients we should include in, and exclude from, their food to deliver longer, healthier lives.

I am delighted that my trip down the rabbit hole has led to me completing a Diploma in Canine Nutrigenomics and a Diploma in Canine Nutrition being awarded a Distinction for both my coursework and theses!

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