Autoimmune disease is a serious condition, but with the right support and a thoughtful approach, many dogs can recover well or enjoy long-term remission. Early diagnosis, gentle therapies and a natural diet all have a vital role to play.
Contents
What is autoimmune disease?
What causes it?
Conventional treatment options
Holistic therapies that can help
Where to get professional help
The role of raw feeding
Top 5 Takeouts
1. What is autoimmune disease?
Your dog’s immune system is designed to protect the body against infections and harmful invaders. But in autoimmune disease, the immune system becomes confused and starts attacking the body itself.
Which parts of the body are affected depends on the specific condition. Autoimmune disease in dogs can cause:
Skin issues such as ulcers, rashes or lesions
Joint pain or inflammation
Blood disorders including low red blood cell or platelet counts
These diseases can be life-threatening if left untreated and are usually chronic, meaning they require long-term management.
2. What causes it?
The causes of autoimmune disease are not always clear, but some contributing factors include:
Vaccines or medications, which may trigger an abnormal immune response
Genetic predisposition, particularly in certain breeds
Environmental stressors or unknown triggers
As autoimmune conditions may run in families, it is important to tell your breeder if your dog is diagnosed. This helps improve the long-term health of future litters and should always be part of responsible breeding practice.
3. Conventional treatment options
Autoimmune disease is not usually considered curable, but many dogs respond well to treatment. The main goal is to control symptoms and prevent damage.
Conventional treatment usually involves:
High-dose steroids, to suppress the immune system
Immunosuppressive drugs, if steroids alone are not enough
Supportive care, such as managing pain or monitoring blood levels
Some dogs achieve long-term remission, while others need ongoing treatment to stay stable. Side effects can occur, so regular monitoring is important.
4. Holistic therapies that can help
Holistic therapies focus on restoring balance in the immune system rather than simply suppressing it. Many carers find these options especially valuable in managing autoimmune conditions.
Gentle, supportive treatments include:
Classical homeopathy, based on the dog’s individual symptoms and temperament
Acupuncture, which helps to rebalance energy flow and reduce chronic inflammation
Osteopathy or physiotherapy, if there is pain, stiffness or joint involvement
💡 Poppy’s Tip: Autoimmune disease is complex and serious. Always work with a qualified vet or holistic practitioner to guide treatment safely and effectively.
5. Where to get professional help
For the best results, it’s important to combine veterinary diagnosis with a holistic approach. You can find professional support through the following:
Veterinary osteopaths: www.associationofanimalosteopaths.com
Veterinary homeopaths: www.bahvs.com
Veterinary acupuncturists: www.ivas.com
Veterinary physiotherapists: www.acpat.org
6. The role of raw feeding
A natural, raw diet helps reduce stress on the immune system and supports overall wellbeing. This is especially helpful for dogs living with autoimmune disease.
Here’s how it helps:
Provides clean, digestible nutrients that the body recognises
Avoids additives, preservatives and allergens that may trigger flares
Supports a healthy weight, particularly for dogs on steroids
Includes anti-inflammatory compounds from raw meaty bones and fresh ingredients
Helps restore vitality and reduce systemic stress
💡 Poppy’s Tip: Start with simple, gentle meals using one protein at a time. Gradually build variety based on your dog’s response.
Top 5 Takeouts
Autoimmune disease causes the immune system to attack the body, leading to serious symptoms in joints, skin or blood.
The cause is often unknown, though vaccines, medication or genetics may play a role.
Conventional treatment suppresses the immune system, and some dogs do well with long-term medication.
Holistic therapies like homeopathy and acupuncture aim to gently rebalance the immune system over time.
Raw feeding supports immune health, reduces inflammation and provides clean, natural nourishment.
If your dog has been diagnosed with autoimmune disease, we can help you build a gentle care plan that works with their body and supports their recovery every step of the way.