Canine atopic dermatitis is also known as ACD and is a chronic skin disease that causes inflammation or hypersensitivity due to a allergy. Affected dogs scratch and rub constantly trying to relieve their discomfort.
It mainly affects young dogs although it can also appear in adults. The origin is unknown although it is estimated that there may be a genetic factor that predisposes it.
In this article on our site we will explain the typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis in dogs and some advice about the treatment that can be applied. There are also some natural remedies that can be helpful in treating this annoying disease.
Causes and risk factors that cause atopic dermatitis
The genetic inheritance seems to be the predominant factor in the development of atopic dermatitis since its incidence is notoriously higher in dogs related to each other. Yes. However, the presence of allergens is necessary to develop the disease. Among these allergens, the most common are:
- Pollen
- Dandruff
- Fungal spores
- Household cleaning chemicals
- Dust
- Mites
- Animal Bites
- Fertilizers
- Wool
- Feathers
However, it is estimated that some breeds are more susceptible to developing atopic dermatitis such as the West Highland White Terrier, the Boxer, Labrador Retriever, Dalmatian, Shar Pei, German Shepherd or French Bulldog.
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis
Symptoms of this disease usually appear between 3 and 6 months of age, but often go unnoticed during the first year, since during that time they are weak and inconspicuous. As the disease progresses, they become more noticeable, and may include:
- Skin scratching
- Body lick
- Skin bites
- Constant rubbing of the body (feet, face and belly)
- Allergic rhinitis
- Crying eyes
- Skin discoloration
- Fur discoloration in affected areas
- Skin lesions
- Pustules
- Scratches
- Wounds
- Cuts
- Crusts
- Skin scars
- Loss of hair
- Skin infections
- Inflamed and irritated ears
- Ear Infections
- Thickened and darkened skin
If we observe any of these symptoms, the best thing to do is go to the vet to make a diagnosis and check that the dog is really suffering this sickness. Below we explain what the tests to diagnose CAD consist of.
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Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis
Diagnosis can be difficult, as atopic dermatitis has symptoms similar to many other skin diseases. However, based on the dog's history, the veterinarian may request an allergy study.
Sometimes such a test is done using a small blood sample from the dog, but these serological tests are not very effective. The most suitable study is an intradermal analysis, in which small amounts of different allergens are injected under the dog's skin. The allergens that cause the disease will produce an immediate response.
Treatment of atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis There is no cure, but proper treatment can be followed to allow the dog to have a good quality of life. The treatment for each dog will depend on the severity of the disease, the specific causes, the existence of secondary infections and other particular aspects of each case.
However, in general, the goal is to eliminate or reduce the presence of allergens that cause dermatitis. If these allergens cannot be identified (something quite common), the presence of environmental factors that have the potential capacity to cause the disease mentioned above is usually eliminated. Thus, the dog's living conditions have to be modified, sometimes even changing his house or even his diet.
In more complicated cases, the use of corticosteroids may be prescribed These medications help reduce the problems of atopic dermatitis, but they have side effects when used for a long time. Therefore, the veterinarian must decide how they should be used, since the dog will be medicated for life.
Natural remedies for atopic dermatitis
As we have mentioned before, there is no effective treatment for atopic dermatitis in dogs and many people reject the use of corticosteroids due to the long-term effects they cause. That is why on our site we will give you some tips that you can use if your dog suffers from this disease:
- Avoid walking your dog first thing in the morning and in the afternoon, when there is a greater accumulation of pollen. Mid-morning or at night are the best times.
- Check the composition of your dog's food and consult your veterinarian if it is advisable to opt for a better quality or more naturally manufactured feed. Feed based on rice and fish are usually the most recommended for dogs suffering from allergies. Homemade diets are also an excellent option.
- Brush your dog's coat daily to prevent the appearance of dandruff in the dog, accumulated dirt and pollen.
- Avoid mountainous areas in the fall, when more fungal spores are found in the environment. Keep this natural food away from your dog.
- Sweep daily to remove dust mites, dead hair, dust and dirt.
- Constantly clean your home with natural products that cannot cause allergies in dogs. An example is cleaning with lemon, although it can also be done with baking soda or vinegar.
- Do not use chemical products to care for your garden.
- Use cotton or natural fabrics for your dog. Avoid wool and feathers.
These are some very simple tricks that can work to help your dog not to suffer seriously from this disease, but don't forget that the vet will give you the appropriate advicefor your specific case, so it is highly recommended to go to him.
