Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Atopic dermatitis in dogs is one of the most common causes of ongoing itching, redness, and skin irritation. This allergic skin disease can significantly affect your dog’s comfort and quality of life — but with the right management, it can be controlled.

What Is Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs?

Atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin condition that occurs when a dog’s immune system overreacts to allergens. These allergens can be:

• Environmental, such as pollen, dust mites, or mould
• Food-related, including common proteins like chicken or beef

While breeds such as West Highland White Terriers, French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are more prone to atopic dermatitis, any dog can develop it.

Signs & Symptoms

Common symptoms of atopic dermatitis in dogs include:

• Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing
• Red, inflamed, or flaky skin
• Hair loss in affected areas
• Ear infections or discharge
• Thickened or darkened skin over time

If left untreated, constant scratching can lead to secondary bacterial or yeast infections, making the condition even harder to manage.

Diagnosis & Testing for Atopic Dermatitis

To effectively treat atopic dermatitis, the underlying trigger must be identified. Vets may recommend:

• Allergy testing to pinpoint environmental triggers
• Food elimination diets to identify problem ingredients
• Physical examination to rule out parasites or other skin disorders

Treatment Options

1. Treating Secondary Infections

If a bacterial infection has developed, antibiotics or medicated shampoos may be prescribed before starting long-term allergy control for their atopic dermatitis.

2. Allergy Management

• For environmental allergies, immunotherapy (allergy vaccines) can retrain the immune system and reduce reactions over time.
• For food allergies, a strict elimination diet using novel proteins such as kangaroo, goat, or crocodile — preferably in a fresh, whole-food form — can help identify and remove triggers of Atopic Dermatitis.

3. Skin Barrier Support

Strengthening the skin’s natural defences for dogs with Atopic Dermatitis is key. This can be done through:

• Medicated shampoos to reduce bacteria and yeast
• Oatmeal or soothing botanical washes to calm inflammation
• Pet-safe products without harsh chemicals

4. Gut Health & Immune Support

A healthy gut microbiome plays a major role in immune regulation and can assist with reducing inflammation in the body, which can trigger Atopic Dermatitis. Supplements such as EAC’s Inside Out Vet can:

• Reduce inflammation
• Strengthen the gut lining
• Support skin and overall wellbeing

5. Long-Term Medications

In chronic Atopic Dermatitis cases, immunosuppressive drugs may help control symptoms, though they don’t address the root immune imbalance. Combining these with gut and skin support can offer better long-term results.

When to See a Vet

If your dog has persistent itching, skin irritation, or recurring ear infections, seek veterinary advice early. It is important to see a Veterinary Dermatitis Specialist for chronic conditions.

Atopic dermatitis can be managed, but only with a tailored plan that addresses both symptoms and underlying triggers.

For more information on treating skin conditions, click HERE, and to download our FREE Skin Allergy Avengers Toolkit, click HERE.

Dr Melissa Meehan is a highly experienced and respected veterinary surgeon with over 16 years experience. Dr Melissa obtained her Members in Small Animal Medicine through examination in 2008 and now runs her own veterinary ophthalmology service.