Health Condition

Allergic Dermatitis

A chronic, genetically influenced skin disorder resulting in itching and inflammation due to environmental allergens.

Detailed Description

Atopic dermatitis is an inherited predisposition to develop allergic reactions to environmental substances such as pollens, dust mites, and molds. It causes chronic itching, skin redness, and secondary infections, often requiring lifelong management.

Common Symptoms

Itching
Licking
Chewing paws
Ear infections
Skin redness
Hair loss

Management Options

Allergen avoidance
Antihistamines
Corticosteroids
Immunotherapy
Topical therapies
Omega-3 supplements

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs prone to allergies?

Many breeds have a predisposition to allergies, especially atopic dermatitis.

What are the signs of allergic dermatitis?

Itching, skin redness, and recurrent ear infections are common signs.

Can allergic dermatitis be cured?

No, but it can be managed with medication and environmental control.

How is allergic dermatitis diagnosed?

By ruling out other causes and performing allergy testing.

Is allergic dermatitis dangerous?

It is not life-threatening but can significantly affect quality of life.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

6 months to 3 years

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Testing Available

Yes

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Diagnosing Methods

Clinical signs; Exclusion of other causes; Allergy testing

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Preventative Measures

None specific; early intervention reduces severity

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Related Conditions

Flea allergy dermatitis, Food allergies, Mange

Affected Breeds

American Hairless Terrier

Prevalence: 15% Severity: 3/5

Due to their lack of protective hair, American Hairless Terriers are more susceptible to environmental allergens and skin irritation than coated breeds.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Severity: 2/5

Breed predisposition noted; persistent paw licking and recurrent ear infections in young adults are common early signs.

Australian Terrier

Severity: 3/5

Australian Terriers are predisposed to atopic dermatitis and are overrepresented in dermatology clinics for this condition.

Bearded Collie

Severity: 2/5

Atopic dermatitis is reported at higher than average rates in Bearded Collies.

Bichon Frise

Prevalence: 20% Severity: 3/5

Bichon Frises have a higher than average incidence of atopic dermatitis, often presenting with facial and paw itching and recurrent ear infections.

Bohemian Shepherd

Prevalence: 5% Severity: 2/5

Slightly higher frequency than in the general canine population; persistent paw licking and recurrent otitis externa may be early signs.

Pharaoh Hound

Severity: 2/5

Pharaoh Hounds may be predisposed to skin allergies, but prevalence is not higher than average for dogs.

Shiba Inu

Severity: 3/5

Shiba Inu are predisposed to atopic dermatitis, with higher than average risk and breed-specific patterns of pruritus and secondary infections.

Shikoku

Severity: 2/5

Moderate risk in Shikoku dogs, similar to other Japanese native breeds. Early signs include persistent paw licking, facial rubbing, and recurrent ear infections.

Spanish Water Dog

Severity: 2/5

Breed club surveys and veterinary dermatology sources indicate a higher-than-average risk, though precise prevalence is not published.

Taiwan Dog

Prevalence: 7% Severity: 3/5

Prevalence is average to slightly higher in urban environments due to increased allergen exposure.

Welsh Terrier

Prevalence: 7.5% Severity: 3/5

Welsh Terriers are among breeds predisposed to atopic dermatitis, with breed surveys estimating prevalence at 5-10%.

Wirehaired Vizsla

Severity: 2/5

Atopic dermatitis is moderately common in Wirehaired Vizslas. Early onset of pruritus, especially in ears and feet, is a typical sign.

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