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Canine Atopic DermatitisCanine atopic dermatitis (also called canine dermatitis, canine atopy) is one of the most common dog skin allergies. Itchiness and skin
inflammation are the main symptoms. Canine atopy is caused by allergens such as pollens, weeds, and house dust mites.
What is Canine Atopic Dermatitis?
Canine atopic dermatitis is a genetic inflammatory skin disorder in which the dog becomes sensitized and reactive to certain environmental allergens, such as pollens, weeds,
house dust mites, and molds.
Many people used to think that in atopy, the allergens were breathed into the respiratory system, and as such canine atopy is also often referred to as
"inhalant allergies". Many veterinary dermatologists now believe that there may be a combination of allergen exposure both by inhalation and by contact of the pollens
or dust mites with the skin.
As well, according to the veterinary medicine literature, canine atopy usually shows up in dogs at 1 to 3 years of age. However, please note that this 1-3 year time period is
just a rough guideline. There are dogs who do not show allergic symptoms until mid-life or older, and there are dogs who start showing symptoms as early as a few months
of age. In fact, it is more accurate to say that canine atopic dermatitis usually occurs within 1 to 3 years of a dog being exposed to continual environmental
allergens. So if you live in an area with few environmental allergens, even though your dog may have the genetic predisposition to develop atopy, he will probably
not do so. However, if you then move to an area with a lot of allergens, your dog will likely develop atopy within 1 to 3 years of exposing to such allergens.
Top
What Breeds are Predisposed to Canine Atopic Dermatitis?Since canine atopy is a genetic disorder, certain dog breeds have a higher possibility of developing this disorder. These breeds include the terriers, the Chinese Shar-Pei, Dalmatians, Retrievers, Irish Setters, Miniature Schnauzers, Bulldogs and other brachiocephalic breeds. But remember that any breed of dog can develop atopy, even mixed breeds. TopWhat are the Common Symptoms of Canine Atopy?Itching (pruritus) is the hallmark symptom of canine atopic dermatitis. Suspect atopy if your dog itches, but otherwise his skin appears normal. The itchiness can be mild, moderate, or severe, although most atopic dogs do not start off with severe itching. The itching may be generalized, or localized usually in the armpits, the face, ears, and feet. As a result of constant scratching, licking, and chewing due to itchiness, an atopic dog can develop skin lesions and discoloring of the skin over time. These skin lesions can also lead to other skin problems such as secondary bacterial or yeast infections. Bacterial infections are most commonly caused by the staphylococcal bacteria. You can find small red bumps (papules) or small pimple-like lesions (pustules) on the dog's skin. When these bumps and lesions rupture, scabs form. Yeast infections are caused by the yeast Malassezia most of the time. The affected dog is rather itchy and smelly, with greasy yellow scales and red skin. In addition, some atopic dogs may also show other signs such as:
How is Canine Atopy Diagnosed?Not all itchy dogs have canine atopic dermatitis, since there are many other things that can make a dog itch. Do not assume that your dog has atopy if he scratches incessantly. More importantly, if your vet bases his diagnosis solely on clinical signs without doing any tests, insist that laboratory tests be done to avoid mis-diagnosis and mis-use of medication. The Gold Standard for atopy diagnosis is the intradermal skin test in which tiny amounts of allergens are injected in several spots very superficially into the skin and the area is examined 15 minutes later for hive-like reactions. Another test is an in vitro test called blood ELISA or RAST testing, although this test is considered to be less accurate than the intradermal skin test. They are positive in many normal dogs. The positive result may only mean that the dog has been exposed to the allergen and has developed circulating antibodies against it. It does not necessarily mean that these antibodies are causing the signs that the dog is exhibiting. It is therefore extremely important for the veterinarian to rule out other possible problems before doing the blood tests. TopCan Canine Atopy be Cured?Unfortunately, canine atopic dermatitis usually cannot be cured; it can only be controlled. Sometimes, though, if an atopic dog is moved from a place with high amounts of allergens to a place with few allergens, the dog may not show signs of allergies although technically (genetically) he is still "allergic".Related Topics Common Dog Allergies Flea Allergies in Dogs Dog Food Allergies How to Treat Dog Allergies Prednisone for Dogs Antihistamines for Dogs Allergy Shots for Dogs Natural Allergy Relief for Dogs References Messonnier, S., The Allergy Solution for Dogs (Three Rivers Press, 2000). Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005). TOP of Canine Atopic Dermatitis |
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