ALLERGIES AND ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Allergies are an abnormal reaction to an offending substance caused by an immune response. Dogs, like people can develop allergies to almost anything. Common canine allergens are pollens, foods, medications, fleas, dust, molds and mildew. The allergic responses may include eye tearing, sneezing, rhinitis (runny nose) and generalized itching. There seems to be a genetic predisposition to allergies in dogs.

When the allergic response involves the skin, it is referred to as atopic dermatitis. It affects an estimated ten to thirty per cent of the purebred canine population. This disorder is characterized by chronic skin inflammation and pruritis (itching), which may predispose the dog to secondary skin infections.  Occasionally, skin problems may be due to an abnormally low thyroid hormone level. This condition is known as hypothyroidism.

In order to determine the etiology of these allergic conditions, a complete veterinary history and physical examination will be required.  Laboratory tests may also be necessary for the most accurate diagnosis.

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Lay Abstracts from the International Canine Immunogenetics and Immunologic Diseases Conference, July - August, 1998 (Reprinted with permission of the AKC Canine Health Foundation)

Hypothyroidism

Atopic Dermatitis - A Summary, Thierry Olivry, DrVet, PhD, DipACVD, DipECVD

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This page was last edited 07/09/2004