Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Category: Skin & Connective Tissue
Breeds documented: 4
Published sources: 6

Overview

An overactive response to allergy triggers can leave the skin inflamed and intensely itchy. In atopic dermatitis, the skin barrier and immune response both contribute to the problem. Common environmental triggers include pollen, molds and dust mites. Signs may follow a seasonal pattern or continue throughout the year, and repeated skin or ear infections can add to the discomfort.

Signs to watch for

Frequent scratching behind the elbows
Repeated licking of the feet
Rubbing the face or scooting along the ground
Red skin and patchy hair loss
Darkened, thickened skin over time
Recurring ear problems

Signs commonly begin between 6 months and 3 years of age.

When to get help Book a veterinary visit for persistent itching or repeated skin and ear problems.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets diagnose atopic dermatitis from the pattern of itching, the history and examination, after checking for other causes such as parasites and skin infections. There is no single laboratory test that confirms the condition. Skin or blood allergy tests are mainly used to identify triggers when planning allergy-specific treatment.

Breeds with documented risk

4 breeds

By breed size

3 Medium
1 Giant

BroholmerGiant · Foundation Stock Service
Finnish HoundMedium · FCI Group 6 (Scent Hounds)
Lapponian HerderMedium · Foundation Stock Service
Russian HoundMedium

Inheritance

Not yet known
None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.