What is atopic dermatitis?
It is an allergic reaction that causes chronic skin inflammation. The disease can start as early as 3 months or as late as 6 years. The disease may be seasonal depending on what is causing the reaction. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic disease that can be treated but not cured. Skin lesions will arise in areas that tend to stay moist: Ears, face, groin, underarms, and feet. They itch and you will probably see our dog licking, rubbing or scratching these areas. The best method of diagnosing atopic dermatitis is with a skin test that injects a tiny amount of allergen(s). Affected dogs will experience a reaction at the injection site. The method can also be used to identify specific allergens that cause reactions.
What kids of allergies cause atopic dermatitis?
Small environmental allergens that can collect on the skin or be inhaled, including pollens, mold spores, animal dander, and house dust mites.
What does it mean for my dog if it has atopic dermatitis?
It can be very mild at first, for a period ranging from months up to around three years. It isn’t usually diagnosed until it becomes more serious. Hyposensitization treatment is helpful for many dogs but it takes as much as a year to bring improvement. Corticosteroids and antihistamines may help with itching. Regular bathing with medicated shampoo can also be helpful. Unfortunately the disease cannot be cured and will not go away on its own. If specific allergens are identified that cause your dog’s reaction minimize the dog’s contact with those substances.
How common is atopic dermatitis in Aussies?
According to the 2009-10 ASHGI Health Survey, 7% of dogs had some kind of allergy with 2/3 of them having skin reactions. About half of the dogs had seasonal allergies.
Is atopic dermatitis inherited?
Yes, but inheritance is complex.
Is there a DNA test for atopic dermatitis?
No.
What does atopic dermatitis mean for my breeding program?
Dogs with severe allergies, with or without atopic dermatitis, should be removed from breeding programs. Mildly affected individuals and healthy kin of affected dogs may be bred but care should be taken to avoid mates with a recent family history of any kind of allergies.