Dermatitis in Dogs: Understanding Symptoms and Treatments
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| Dermatitis in Dogs: Understanding Symptoms and Treatments |
Dermatitis is a frequently diagnosed condition in dogs, but what exactly does it entail? Learn about this category of skin issues, including symptoms to watch for and potential treatment options.
What Is Dermatitis in Dogs?
Dermatitis encompasses a range of conditions that lead to irritated and frequently itchy skin in dogs. According to Dr. Domenico Santoro, DVM, Associate Professor of Dermatology at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, the term 'dermatitis' is inclusive. He states, 'Essentially, it just means skin inflammation, which accounts for about 90% of cases across various diseases.'
Signs and Symptoms of Dermatitis in Dogs
Itching, scratching, and excessive licking or biting are early signs of dermatitis in dogs, which can result from secondary bacterial infections. Initially, a minor itch may escalate as the dog scratches, chews, and licks, causing skin abrasions that introduce bacteria. This process leads to small, pimple-like bumps that eventually burst, resulting in crusting and scaling.
As the problem advances to deeper layers of the skin, the affected area may become painful and exude fluid. Dead skin cells may shed, worsening the condition. Persistent inflammation can cause thickening and darkening of the skin, accompanied by scaliness, increased fluid discharge, or a foul odor. Additional dermatitis symptoms may include pus-filled blisters, scabs, and hair loss.
Causes of Different Kinds of Dermatitis in Dogs
As dermatitis encompasses numerous conditions, its causes vary widely, including contact with irritants, burns, physical trauma, allergies like atopic dermatitis or food sensitivities, and systemic diseases affecting the entire body. Infections are also common triggers for dermatitis, stemming from bacteria, viruses, external parasites such as mites or fleas, or fungal infections like yeast.
Ear Mites in Dogs
Ear mites, which are minuscule parasitic arachnids, represent a highly contagious nuisance for dogs, especially prevalent among puppies. These microscopic bugs, known scientifically as Otodectes cynotis, have a predilection for inhabiting the ear canals of dogs, where they thrive in warm and moist environments.
Hot Spots in Dogs
Hot spots, alternatively known as pyotraumatic dermatitis, typically stem from underlying factors, such as flea bites or pyoderma, prompting dogs to engage in scratching and chewing behaviors. These actions create openings for bacterial infiltration, and the resulting moist environment from chewing fosters bacterial growth, exacerbating the lesion's progression, thus earning the term "hot."
Malassezia Dermatitis in Dogs
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Malassezia yeast, a fungus naturally occurring on canine skin, can cause irritation and lead to canine yeast dermatitis when it proliferates excessively.
Mange in Dogs
Mange, a skin condition triggered by mites, affects dogs in two primary forms: demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange, also called canine scabies. Demodectic mange, or demodicosis, arises when Demodex mites, typically residing on the dog's skin, proliferate uncontrollably within hair follicles. On the other hand, sarcoptic mange, a highly contagious ailment, occurs when the Sarcoptes scabiei mite transfers from one host to another.
Pyoderma in Dogs
Canine pyoderma, a bacterial skin ailment, manifests in various primary forms. Frequently associated with the bacteria Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, skin fold (or surface) pyoderma typically emerges within moist skin folds or wrinkles. Superficial pyoderma denotes an infection that penetrates slightly more profound layers of the skin. In contrast, deep pyoderma occurs when the infection extends to the skin layer closest to the dog's muscle.
Seborrhea in Dogs
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Seborrhea is characterized by an accelerated renewal of the outer skin layer. In dogs, primary seborrhea is inherited, whereas secondary seborrhea arises due to underlying medical issues such as allergies or hormonal imbalances.
Skin Allergies in Dogs
Allergic dermatitis, commonly called skin allergies, is the prevailing allergic reaction observed in dogs. These allergies frequently stem from sensitivities to flea bites, dietary ingredients, or environmental factors, known as atopic dermatitis.
Walking Dandruff in Dogs
Commonly called walking dandruff, cheyletiella mites are highly contagious and can survive on a dog for approximately 10 days. They are small, white, moving specks on the dog's back and trunk.
Diagnosing Dermatitis in Dogs
Your veterinarian will gather your dog's medical history, followed by a thorough examination and analysis of its symptoms. This comprehensive assessment aids in identifying the type of dermatitis affecting your dog. For instance, in cases of flea allergies, the veterinarian can observe evidence of flea bites during the examination.
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Often, your vet may perform skin scrapings or collect discharge samples for further analysis. These samples are then examined under a microscope to detect the presence of yeast, parasites, mites, or other organisms.
If underlying causes are suspected, your veterinarian will undertake appropriate diagnostic measures. This may involve conducting blood work or other examinations. For instance, an intradermal skin test may pinpoint environmental allergens, while dietary changes may be implemented to identify food allergies.
Dog Dermatitis Treatment
The treatment of dermatitis hinges on identifying and addressing the underlying cause of skin inflammation in your dog. Furthermore, alleviating specific symptoms is crucial to prevent further self-inflicted trauma.
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Your veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines, steroids, or other oral medications to address itching. He or she could also recommend supplementing your dog's diet with fatty acids. Topical anti-itch sprays effectively reduce discomfort, while a recovery collar can prevent additional infection from excessive chewing and scratching.
In cases where yeast is the culprit, your vet will likely prescribe topical and oral antifungals. Utilizing specialized canine shampoos containing benzoyl peroxide, selenium disulfide, or similar ingredients can help eliminate scale and grease. An antifungal dog shampoo comprising chlorhexidine, miconazole, or ketoconazole may also be prescribed.
If a bacterial infection is identified, your veterinarian may prescribe oral antibiotics. Regular cleansing with a mild antiseptic or antimicrobial shampoo followed by an oatmeal-based dog shampoo to soothe irritated skin is often recommended. It's crucial to thoroughly dry your dog post-bath, as dampness can create an environment conducive to bacterial or fungal growth.
If mites or fleas are detected, your veterinarian will typically advise using topical and oral treatments specifically formulated to eliminate them. In instances of flea allergy, adhering to the veterinarian-recommended flea treatment regimen is essential, complemented by including a flea and tick preventative to prevent re-infestation.
Due to the challenge of identifying mites, veterinarians often treat suspected cases similarly to confirmed ones. Treatment may involve oral medications such as antibiotics, antihistamines, and topical solutions like miticidal shampoo. It's advisable to launder all canine bedding thoroughly and treat the environment with safe insecticidal sprays. Additionally, disinfecting grooming tools is crucial.
Your veterinarian may refer your dog to a dermatologist for further evaluation and specialized care if necessary.
New Medications for Dogs with Dermatitis
Recently, safer and more advanced anti-inflammatory treatments have emerged for managing dog dermatitis. According to Dr. Santoro, these therapies primarily target alleviating itching, known as antipruritic medications, including lokivetmab (sold under Cytopoint) and oclacitinib (branded as Apoquel).
Lokivetmab combats a specific type of allergy-triggering protein. Administered via subcutaneous injection, each lokivetmab dose provides relief for four to eight weeks. On the other hand, Oclacitinib is a daily oral medication that effectively reduces itchiness and inflammation resulting from allergic reactions.
Furthermore, Dr. Santoro mentions introducing a new liquid oral form of cyclosporine. Cyclosporine suppresses the dog's immune response, reducing allergy-related itching and inflammation. To explore the suitability of these medications for your dog, it's advisable to consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance.