Managing Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Atopic dermatitis in dogs is an allergic skin condition that can affect dogs of any age. The same condition in humans is what we would refer to as eczema.

When your dog encounters an allergen, it triggers an immune response that makes the skin itch. As your itchy dog scratches away, the skin can become inflamed, sore and red. Dogs with severe allergies might end up with broken or damaged skin, infections, and missing fur in the affected areas.

Various things can trigger dog allergies, and a dog with atopic dermatitis will often have more than one trigger. The most common dog allergies include:

• Fleas
• Dust mites
• Mould
• Pollen, grass, plants or trees
• An ingredient in their food

There is also believed to be a genetic element to atopic dermatitis in dogs. A dog born to a parent with atopic dermatitis has a greater risk of developing the condition too, and certain breeds have a higher risk. These include:

• Labradors
• Golden retrievers
• Basset hounds
• West Highland white terriers
• English springer spaniels
• Bull terriers
• French bulldogs
• Bichon frisé
• Shar Pei

Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

The signs of atopic dermatitis in dogs include:

• Persistent itching and scratching.
• Red, inflamed skin and rashes.
• Broken skin or sores.
• Areas of darker, thickened skin.
• Areas of rough or scaly skin.
• Excessive licking or grooming.
• Saliva stains on the skin.
• Patches of bald or thinning fur.
• Weeping eyes.
• Skin and/or ear infections, especially if they happen frequently.

Dog skin problems and other symptoms such as these can also occur as a one-off reaction to something in your dog’s environment. For example, a topical product or treatment might cause skin irritation, or a stressful situation might cause your dog to lick or bite at their skin. It can be hard to determine exactly what’s going on though, so if your dog is showing any concerning symptoms or behaviours, it’s always best to get a professional opinion from your vet.

How to Treat Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Your vet will first want to rule out other causes of dog skin problems. They will likely ask about your dog’s general health, their skin symptoms, and any triggers you’ve noticed. They might also take scrapings of the skin to test for things like mites or infection.

Before your vet decides how to treat atopic dermatitis in your dog, the next step will be to figure out what allergens your dog is reacting to. Some allergens, like flea bites, are easier to identify than others. If food allergies are suspected, then you may need to feed your dog an elimination diet. This involves feeding them a hypoallergenic food and monitoring to see if their symptoms improve.

Depending on your dog’s allergy (or allergies), your vet may recommend:

• Flea treatments. An anti-flea medication like Evicto for Dogs provides reliable month-long protection. You should also treat other pets with a species-appropriate flea medication and treat your home and garden, including the dog’s bedding.

• Dietary changes. You may need to switch your dog to a hypoallergenic food or a food that supports your dog’s skin health.

• Antibiotics or antifungals. These may be recommended if your dog has a skin or ear infection which can occur frequently in dogs with allergies.

• Anti-itch medications. There are a variety of prescription medications available which are very effective at reducing inflammation and itching caused by atopic dermatitis. Your vet may recommend a combination of treatments to control your dog’s itch more effectively.

• Shampoos. A soothing shampoo can relieve irritation and itching and help the skin to heal. A medicated shampoo may be prescribed if your dog’s skin is infected.

• Immunotherapy. Also known as desensitization therapy, this involves injecting your dog with tiny amounts of an allergen. Over time, the body gets used to the allergen and the immune system response is reduced.

Preventing Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent dog allergies like atopic dermatitis from developing. In fact, your dog may develop additional allergies throughout their life. However, once you have identified your dog’s allergens, you can take steps to reduce their exposure and prevent them from having allergy flare-ups. These preventative measures include:

• Avoiding trigger foods. Ask your vet to recommend an anti-allergy diet, and make sure that family and friends are aware of your dog’s allergies to prevent accidental exposure.

• Using flea preventatives. A monthly flea preventative can protect your dog from flea bites. Be sure to treat your other pets and your dog’s home environment, too.

• Adapting your routine. If your dog is allergic to certain plants or trees, you can avoid walking in areas where they grow or keep them indoors when the pollen count is high. It may also help to rinse them off after walks.

• Keeping their environment clean. Vacuuming and dusting regularly can reduce your dog’s exposure to dust and mites. It can also be helpful to avoid using airborne products like sprays, air fresheners or perfumes in the home, as these can irritate sensitive skin even if your dog is not allergic to them.

• Introducing supplements. Fatty acids like omega-3, along with nutrients like zinc and vitamin E, play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. Discuss with your vet if supplements would help your dog and ask them to recommend a safe, effective product such as Megaderm.

Dog allergies are a lifelong problem, but when you understand your dog’s triggers, managing atopic dermatitis gets much easier. By carefully nurturing your dog’s skin health, protecting their environment, and seeking your vet’s assistance when needed, you can keep your canine companion comfortable and itch-free.