Skin allergies in dogs are pretty common among India. The pollutants in the air and the high level of allergens can cause redness, rashes and excessive itching. Veterinarians often refer to skin allergies in dogs as canine atopic dermatitis (CAD).
Any dog who is prone to skin allergies will show symptoms between the ages of 6 months to 3 years.
Which areas do skin allergies in dogs affect the most?
In a dog with skin allergies, you will notice rashes, redness, hair loss and lesions in and around –
- The face (mouth and eyes)
- Abdomen or belly
- Outside part of their ears
- Outside of their elbows
- The “wrist” joints
- Spaces between their fingers
- Areas surrounding their anus and genitals
Common Body Parts Most Affected by Canine Skin Allergies
Dog allergy spots typically appear on the paws, ears, muzzle, underbelly, armpits, and the tail base because these areas trap environmental allergens easily. Paws pick up pollen and dust from walks, the muzzle interacts with surfaces and smells, and the underbelly is exposed during sitting or lying down.
These spots also remain warm and moist, creating ideal conditions for yeast or bacteria when the skin barrier is compromised. It’s common for dogs to lick or chew these areas excessively, which worsens redness and inflammation. Regular grooming, gentle cleaning, and professional care can help reduce flare-ups.
For more care tips, check “Dog Grooming for Allergy-Prone Skin.”
What are the clinical signs of skin allergies in dogs?
Clinical signs and symptoms of allergies in dogs can appear intermittently and may become more prominent in some seasons. It typically depends on the type of allergen involved. Recognizing the early signs helps prevent chronic infections and long-term skin damage.
Physical Symptoms That Indicate Skin Allergies
The primary clinical signs of canine atopic dermatitis or dog skin allergies include –
- Inflamed skin (rashes and redness)
- Flaky or dry patches
- Thickened skin
- Painful hot spots
- Hair loss
Behavioral Changes Linked to Itching and Discomfort
Along with visible dog scratching allergy signs, many dogs show behavioral changes, such as:
- Frequent scratching
- Paw chewing
- Rubbing their face on furniture
- Scooting due to itchiness
- Excessive licking
What causes dog skin allergies?
Although a simple blood test can help determine if your dog is experiencing allergies, identifying the exact trigger is more complex.
Allergies in dogs are triggered by both environmental and internal factors.
Some of the other factors that predominantly cause skin allergies in dogs or CAD are –
- Excess bacterial growth (Staphylococcus pseudintermedius)
- Unnatural yeast growth (Malassezia pachydermatis)
- Disruptions in the skin barrier
Environmental Allergens Like Pollen, Dust, and Mites
Sometimes, dogs are allergic to environmental factors just like we are. Environmental allergies in dogs are usually caused by pollen, mold spores, dust mites, molds, and grass. Dogs exposed to these allergens may experience seasonal flare-ups.
Food Allergies Triggered by Certain Ingredients
At other times, certain foods can cause allergic reactions in dogs. These could include chicken, beef, red meat, dairy, wheat, shellfish, or gluten in grains. If your veterinarian suspects food-induced allergies in your dog, they will recommend an exclusion diet or a hypoallergenic diet.
See Food Allergies in Dogs for more information.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) Caused by Flea Bites
Even a single flea bite can cause severe irritation in sensitive dogs, leading to symptoms of flea allergy dermatitis in dogs, such as hair loss and redness near the tail base. Consistent flea control is essential, even for indoor dogs.
Genetic Predisposition and Breed-Specific Sensitivities
Certain breeds are naturally more prone to CAD because of inherited sensitivities or weaker skin barriers. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, West Highland Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Shih Tzus, and several other breeds frequently develop skin allergies early in life.
NOTE: Although hypothyroidism does not cause CAD in dogs directly, it can worsen the flare-ups. It can cause the skin to become more prone to breakage and infections. If your dog has recurring symptoms of CAD, you should definitely talk to a veterinarian near you to get your dog’s thyroid hormone levels checked.
When a dog has low thyroid hormone levels, anti-inflammatory medicines may not work. Your veterinarian will begin treating your dog for hypothyroidism along with the standard treatment for skin allergies.
What is the diagnostic test for Canine Atopic Dermatitis?
Diagnosis starts with clinical observation, symptoms, history, and the exclusion of other conditions that cause similar symptoms, followed by allergy testing to confirm triggers.
Physical Examination and Medical History Evaluation
Your veterinarian examines the skin for redness, scaling, and infection while ruling out parasites like mites and fleas. Your dog’s daily routine, diet, grooming habits, sleeping areas, and past flare-ups provide essential clues. A detailed history helps the vet identify patterns and narrow down possible triggers before considering advanced tests.
Your veterinarian should refer to a standardised set of clinical criteria before confirming a CAD diagnosis. It is known as Favrot’s Criteria and it helps veterinarians determine whether an itchy dog can be suffering from CAD.
For example, your veterinarian must rule out all other diseases that have similar symptoms such as mange, flea allergy dermatitis, and other primary skin infections. Veterinarians typically rule out ectoparasites via skin and coat examination and skin scraping. Your veterinarian may even recommend a skin biopsy to simply rule out skin cancer.
Intradermal Skin Testing for Allergen Identification
Tiny allergen samples are injected under the skin as part of dog allergy testing to monitor reactions and identify trigger substances. If a raised bump or redness appears, it indicates sensitivity to that substance.
Serum Allergy Testing for Detecting Immune Response
A blood test that measures antibodies against specific allergens to understand your dog’s sensitivities.
Blood tests to determine the levels of IgE are not the correct indicator for CAD in dogs. Many dogs with CAD may not have excessively elevated levels of IgE in their blood test report.
Elimination Diet Trial to Identify Food Allergens
This trial helps determine whether food ingredients are contributing to your dog’s skin issues. Your dog is placed on a simplified diet containing only one protein and one carbohydrate source, or a hydrolysed diet, for several weeks. All treats, flavored supplements, or table scraps must be avoided. If symptoms improve during this period, ingredients are slowly reintroduced to identify triggers.
Visit for more on “Dog Diet Elimination Plan.”
What is the treatment for canine atopic dermatitis?
Since CAD in dogs is chronic, treatment aims to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Medications and Injections to Control Allergic Reactions
Dog skin allergy treatment options include Apoquel, Cytopoint, corticosteroids, and antihistamines.
The first target is to reduce scarring and inflammation. So, your veterinarian may recommend one or multiple corticosteroids, anti-allergic drugs and skin health supplements as the first round of treatment.
Depending on how your dog responds to these medicines, your veterinarian may change the doses or the medicines.
There is no particular medicine that is used in the treatment of skin allergies in dogs.
Most dogs with CAD will also receive anti-flea and anti-tick medicines from veterinarians. These can include oral medicines, sprays or shampoos. Your veterinarian is the best person to decide which form of flea and tick treatment is best for your dog depending on their skin health.
Your dog will also likely receive antibacterial and antifungal medication to control and reduce the secondary bacterial and fungal skin infection(s). Do not change the dose or course of the drug without consulting your veterinarian.
Topical Treatments for Itch Relief and Skin Healing
Apart from using oral medicines, your doctor will also prescribe topical treatment and healing ointments for your dog’s skin. Medicated shampoos, anti-itch sprays, and soothing conditioners help heal irritated skin and control infections.
Dietary Management for Reducing Allergy Flare-Ups
Switching to hypoallergenic, hydrolysed, or fish-based diets significantly reduces dog skin allergy episodes.
If there’s reason to suspect that your dog has food-induced skin allergies your veterinarian will begin with an exclusion diet.
Lifestyle and Environmental Adjustments for Long-Term Care
Simple changes at home can make dog skin allergy management much easier. Air purifiers help reduce dust and pollen indoors. Washing your dog’s bedding weekly and wiping their paws after walks removes allergens. Avoiding cigarette smoke and maintaining a clean home environment also supports long-term skin comfort.
Book a skin allergy consultation for your dog at Vetic for expert guidance.
At What Age Do Dogs Develop Atopic Dermatitis?
Most dogs develop CAD between 6 months and 3 years of age. Some dogs show early seasonal flare-ups that gradually become more frequent.
Early recognition and management help prevent chronic inflammation and dog allergies in puppies.
Can Dogs Outgrow Skin Allergies or Atopic Dermatitis?
Dogs rarely outgrow CAD, but they can achieve excellent control with consistent care. Regular check-ups, seasonal monitoring, and treatment adjustments help keep symptoms mild.
Schedule follow-ups at Vetic to maintain healthy skin.
Is Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs Contagious?
Canine atopic dermatitis in golden retrievers or other dogs is not contagious. It does not spread to humans or other pets. It is an internal immune reaction rather than an infectious disease. This understanding helps pet parents manage the condition confidently.
Recovery and Long-Term Care for Dogs with CAD
Most dogs with CAD live completely normal, happy lives when managed well. Routine vet visits, skin checks, and diet adjustments play a crucial role in managing chronic allergies in dogs. Over time, pet parents learn their dog’s triggers and can prevent flare-ups before they start.
How to Prevent Dog Skin Allergies
Prevention starts with a healthy lifestyle, regular grooming, balanced nutrition, and year-round flea control. Keeping your dog’s bedding clean, reducing household dust, and wiping their paws after outdoor walks can significantly reduce exposure to allergens.
Are CAD or Skin Allergies in Dogs Genetic?
Yes, genetics plays a role. Some dogs inherit a weaker skin barrier or an immune system that overreacts to allergens. Knowing this helps pet parents adopt preventive skincare early, especially if the breed is prone to allergies.
Summary: Managing Canine Atopic Dermatitis Effectively
Atopic dermatitis requires lifelong care, but with the right treatment plan, most dogs remain comfortable and itch-free. Consistent management, routine vet visits, and early intervention make all the difference.
Download the Vetic App to manage appointments and get expert guidance on pet allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is canine atopic dermatitis in dogs?
CAD in dogs is a chronic inflammatory skin condition caused by allergies to environmental or food-related triggers.
What causes skin allergies or atopic dermatitis in dogs?
Environmental allergens, food sensitivities, parasites, and genetics all contribute.
What are the common signs of atopic dermatitis in dogs?
Redness, itching, licking, rashes, hot spots, and behavioral changes are linked to discomfort.
How is canine atopic dermatitis diagnosed?
Through clinical examination, exclusion of other diseases, and dog skin allergy testing.
Can atopic dermatitis in dogs be cured?
No, but symptoms can be effectively managed long-term.
What are the common allergens that trigger skin allergies in dogs?
Dust mites, pollen, mold, grass, and certain food ingredients.
How is atopic dermatitis treated in dogs?
With medications, topical therapies, dietary changes, and lifestyle adjustments.
Can diet help manage atopic dermatitis in dogs?
Yes, hypoallergenic diets or elimination diets significantly reduce symptoms.
Are certain dog breeds more prone to skin allergies and atopic dermatitis?
Yes. Bulldogs, Westies, Labradors, Pugs, and other genetically predisposed breeds.
How can I prevent flare-ups of atopic dermatitis in my dog?
Regular grooming, flea control, clean bedding, and early intervention help minimize flare-ups.
