Treatment of dermatitis in dogs
Dermatological problems in dogs are one of the most common reasons for visits to veterinary clinics. Although in most cases these are not life-threatening diseases, skin conditions affect the quality of life of our furry friends. In today’s article we explain the main causes, symptoms, and treatments of dermatitis in dogs.
Causes of canine dermatitis
Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin that can manifest in different ways and with different symptoms: itching, redness, erosions, blisters, ulcers, etc. Although there are many causes of dermatitis in dogs, it is usually produced by one of the following triggering factors:
- Fungi and yeasts.
- Mites and fleas.
- Food allergy.
- Excessive licking or scratching.
- Contact with an allergen.
Types of dermatitis in dogs
Depending on the causes that provoke dermatitis, we can classify this condition into different types, each with its own specific symptoms. Therefore, the treatment of dermatitis in dogs will vary according to the different types of the disease:
- Atopic dermatitis.
- Dermatitis from food allergy.
- Dermatitis from flea bite allergy.
- Seborrheic dermatitis.
- Contact dermatitis.
- Acral lick dermatitis.
- Acute moist dermatitis.
- Fungal dermatitis.
- Mite dermatitis.
What are the best treatments for dermatitis in dogs?
The treatment of dermatitis in dogs will depend on the type and the specific symptoms that appear in each case. For example, in pets with atopic dermatitis it is necessary to detect the allergen that causes hypersensitivity and control the presence of external parasites.
We must keep in mind that canine dermatitis is a chronic disease and therefore has no cure. Thus, treatments for dermatitis in dogs serve to relieve symptoms and ensure a good quality of life for the animals that suffer from it. For this purpose, different products are usually used, such as shampoos, ointments, sprays, or tablets.
Shampoo for dogs with dermatitis
Depending on the type of dermatitis, we can find different shampoos for the treatment of canine dermatitis: antiseborrheic shampoos, shampoos for atopic skin, etc. Normally, these are products made with natural ingredients, free of allergens, and with the ability to relieve some symptoms such as itching and redness.
Ointment to relieve the symptoms of dermatitis
Ointment is another of the most common treatments to calm itching and reduce the inflammation caused by canine dermatitis. To choose the most appropriate ointment in each case, it is important to seek advice from your veterinarian. He will also indicate the frequency of use of the ointment and teach you how to apply the product to the affected areas.
Spray for canine dermatitis
Spray is also a widely used product to treat dermatitis in our four-legged companions, since its application is very convenient and simple. This type of treatment helps reduce itching, control inflammation, stimulate wound healing, and restore the skin barrier.
Medications for dermatitis in dogs
In more severe cases, the veterinarian will prescribe specific drugs to reduce inflammation and control skin lesions caused by canine dermatitis. This type of treatment against dermatitis in dogs is usually accompanied by other products such as shampoo and ointment.
In addition to veterinary treatment, to control the symptoms of dermatitis, it is very important that we provide our pet with a natural diet, rich in fatty acids, hypoallergenic, and free of artificial additives.
