Dermatitis in dogs: symptoms, types and treatment

Dermatitis in dogs is an inflammation on the skin that can have different causes, such as allergies, fungi, parasites, bacteria or even hormonal imbalances. The problem is a frequent finding in the veterinary routine and directly compromises the health and well-being of the animals. Tutors should be aware of clinical signs, which include intense itching, redness, sores, hair loss, and constant licking.

Although it causes confusion, the term dermatitis does not refer to a specific disease, but to a set of dermatological conditions that affect the skin of dogs. Each of these conditions has specific causes, symptoms and treatments. Most types of dermatitis in dogs are not contagious, but causes such as mycosis and sarcoptic scabies can be transmitted to humans or other animals.

What are the most common types?

The most common types include atopic dermatitis, flea bite allergic dermatitis, fungal dermatitis, bacterial dermatitis, and food dermatitis. Inflammation can be triggered by triggers such as environmental allergens, fleas, bacteria, fungi, food allergy, irritants, and hormonal changes.

Allergic dermatitis, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic, inflammatory and hereditary skin disease, considered one of the most common in clínica veterinária. It is a multifactorial condition, characterized by the sensitization of the immune system to environmental allergens, such as mites, fungi, yeasts, pollen, dust, mold and even some foods (SILVA et al., 2021).

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How does atopic dermatitis manifest itself?

The problem occurs when the dog’s immune system overreacts to these allergens, activating IgE-type antibodies, which cause intense inflammation in the skin and persistent itching. According to the Regional Council of Medicina Veterinária de São Paulo (CRMV-SP), dermatitis of allergic origin corresponds to about 70% of dermatological cases in dogs.

This condition is especially common in dogs with genetic predisposition. The predisposition is associated with both immune changes, which generate exacerbated responses, and defects in the integrity of the skin barrier, which make it difficult to protect the skin against the penetration of allergens, microorganisms and irritants.

How is the diagnosis made?

The diagnosis of canine dermatitis is complex and can take weeks. Examinations such as skin scraping, bacterial culture and elimination diet may be requested. The veterinarian evaluates the animal’s history and clinical signs to identify the underlying cause.

“Dermatitis is a chronic and often hereditary disease, characterized by inflammation in the most superficial layers of the skin and can affect different areas of the animal’s body,” explains Fernanda Ambrosino, a veterinarian interviewed by the portal Vida de Bicho.

What is the recommended treatment?

Treatment depends on the cause and usually includes medications, specific shampoos, parasite control, and dietary adjustments, such as hypoallergenic diet. In cases of secondary infections, antibiotics or antifungals may be needed. Veterinary follow-up is essential to the success of the treatment.

In addition to directly compromising the health and well-being of the pet, some types of dermatitis — such as dermatophytosis and sarcoptic scab — can be transmitted to humans. Therefore, when noticing any change in the skin of the animal, the tutor should seek a qualified professional for evaluation and proper conduct.

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