An itch from time to time is normal. Meanwhile, when the puppy starts scratching constantly, it’s important to turn on the alert. After all, he may have canine dermatitis.
But don’t be scared! Once identified, the disease can be treated and, following it according to the veterinarian’s guidelines, your pet will be well and healthy.
Below, we will explain a little more about this condition that is very common in the veterinary clinic. Follow!
What is Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis, or canine dermatitis, is nothing more than an inflammation of the skin of dogs.
Just like humans, the skin is also the largest organ in dogs and helps keep the body protected. However, sometimes the skin is affected by various issues that can cause dermatitis.
And the causes of this disease are varied, from the proliferation of bacteria or the presence of fungi, through hormonal issues, various allergies, skin lesions, parasites, among others.
Therefore, whatever the case that affected the puppy, the first and most important tip of all is: if you noticed that the pet has skin lesions and/or itches too much, then look for a veterinarian to identify the cause of the problem and indicate the correct treatment.
After all, there may also be other diseases and conditions that also influence the health of the dog’s skin, such as fleas, scabies, food allergies, skin infections, among others. The vet needs to examine the pet to make sure it’s about canine dermatitis before prescribing anything.
What are the symptoms of canine dermatitis?
Above, we already mentioned that excessive itching is one of the symptoms of canine dermatitis. Meanwhile, there are also other symptoms that can affect dogs that go through this problem. And they are varied.
Among them, the dog with canine dermatitis may present:
– Hair dull and sparse;
– Hair loss and flaws;
– Redness in the armpits, abdomen, ears, feet and face;
– Sores (with or without pus), swelling and scratches due to constant scratching, nibbling or licking the area;
– Recurrent otitis;
– Thick and gray skin;
– Appearance of pustules on the abdomen;
– Recurrent skin infections – that is, those that reappear after treatment;
– The act of nibbling and licking spaces between the fingers and perianal region.
All these symptoms can be manifestations of the disease. Therefore, as we mentioned earlier, only a veterinarian will be able to make the correct diagnosis to say whether your dog really has canine dermatitis or some other health problem.
How to treat canine dermatitis
The causes and symptoms of canine dermatitis are varied. Thus, the treatment for the disease depends on what caused it and also what symptoms it is manifesting in the dog.
For this, the veterinarian will examine the pet and better understand its diet, history, habits, among others. From this information, the doctor can request specific tests to identify if it really is a canine dermatitis.
Typically, treatments include baths with dermatitis shampoos prescribed by the veterinarian. However, if the doctor identifies that the cause of dermatitis is food allergy, for example, he may recommend a hypoallergenic food for the dog.
Also, there are cases where it may be necessary to use sprays, ointments and medication in pills that help in the treatment of the disease.
What causes dermatitis in dogs?
Canine dermatitis can have several causes. It can be genetic and identified in the first six months of the animal’s life.
Also, it can be caused by other factors such as stress, food allergy, depression, vulnerable immune system, among others.
Furthermore, allergic dermatitis caused by flea bites (DAPP) and also hormonal problems such as Cushing’s syndrome can cause dermatitis.
How to prevent canine dermatitis?
Although there are several causes for the emergence of canine dermatitis, there are some precautions that can be taken to prevent the onset of the disease. Check out:
– When bathing the puppy, use only pet-specific products;
– After bathing, dry the dog’s hair and skin well to avoid the proliferation of fungi,
– Always be up to date with the use of anti-fleas and other parasites;
– Keep the environment clean, as well as the accessories and toys for the dog. This care helps reduce the number of mites and avoid pet allergies;
– Give the puppy a healthy life, with walks, balanced food and affection;
– Take the animal to the vet at least once a year to check if everything is fine with him.
These precautions are important to help keep your dog happy, safe and with a strong immune system.
Sometimes it is not possible to prevent canine dermatitis. However, these topics are important for the dogs’ routine to be healthy and, in some cases, can help prevent the disease.
Breeds prone to canine dermatitis
Although there are several causes and symptoms related to canine dermatitis, it is known that it is more common in some specific breeds of dogs.
Among them, we highlight animals with many folds in the skin, such as the Shar-pei, or those with very long and thick fur, such as the Golden Retriever. This happens because these characteristics usually contribute to the emergence and proliferation of fungi and bacteria in the skin of dogs.
Still, there are other breeds that are more predisposed to the disease. Being them:
– Beagle;
– Boxer;
– Bulldogs;
– Dalmatian;
– Golden retriever;
– Labrador;
– Lhasa Apso;
– German Shepherd;
– Belgian Shepherd;
– Poodle;
– Pug;
– Schnauzers;
– Shar Pei;
– Shi-Tzu;
– Terriers.
With all this information, you certainly already know a lot more about canine dermatitis, don’t you? However, always remember that, if you have any questions, it is best to see a veterinarian as soon as possible.