Eczema in dogs refers to inflammatory lesions that appear as increased sensitivity and itching of the skin layers (stratum papillare and epidermis). Itchy, irritating dermatitis causes dogs to scratch, lick, or chew themselves, which can worsen symptoms. There are two forms in dogs: wet eczema and dry eczema, each with distinct symptoms.
Wet Eczema produces a moist discharge from the affected area.
Dry Eczema causes flaky, scaly lesions.
Both forms provoke severe itching; when dogs scratch or chew to relieve the itch, they risk creating wounds prone to infection.
Symptoms of Eczema in Dogs
Symptoms vary slightly depending on whether the eczema is wet or dry, and they can resemble conditions like mange or allergies—so only a veterinarian can make a definitive diagnosis. As the condition progresses and scratching increases, signs worsen. Common symptoms include:
Localized redness of the skin
Formation of intracellular and intercellular fluid-filled vesicles (edema)
Oozing from edematous areas, creating moist patches
Localized increase in skin temperature
Keratinization and thickening in affected regions
Hair loss over lesions
Crusting of wounds
Flaking or dandruff-like scales
Intense itching of the lesion
Chewing at the area, enlarging the wound
Secondary infections from excessive scratching
Wet eczema is characterized by constant scratching, chewing at lesions, licking, and localized hair loss, with lesions appearing red, moist, oozing, and often malodorous. Dry eczema manifests as peeling, outbreaks, and flaking, which may go unnoticed initially due to the dog’s coat but can cause pain over time.
Causes of Eczema in Dogs
Eczema has several possible triggers. The most common form is atopic dermatitis, an allergic reaction (“atopy”) in which the immune system overreacts to certain substances, causing inflammation.
Other causes include:
Parasites or mites
Flea bite hypersensitivity
Food allergies
Contact dermatitis
Impacted or diseased anal glands
Otitis externa (external ear inflammation)
Licking of a painful area
Vitamin deficiencies
Exposure to irritant chemicals, plants, or other substances
Contact allergies
Breed predisposition
Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections
Respiratory and Contact Allergies
Allergens that trigger reactions in dogs—such as pollens from grasses, trees, weeds, dust mites, and molds—are largely the same as those affecting humans. The timing of the reaction offers a clue: if it’s year‑round, think dust or mold; if seasonal, think pollens. These allergens can provoke eczema in dogs.
Food Allergies
Many owners overlook food allergies as a cause because their dog has eaten the same diet for years without issue. However, animals can develop allergies over time. Allergy is independent of food quality—if a dog is allergic to a component, it doesn’t matter whether it’s in a premium or budget brand. Hypoallergenic diets often avoid common fillers, reducing allergic stimuli.
Flea Allergies
The reaction usually targets flea saliva proteins, not the flea itself. Paradoxically, dogs occasionally exposed to fleas are more prone than those chronically infested. A single bite can trigger a reaction lasting five to seven days.
Breed Predispositions
Some breeds—like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Pekingese, and Chow-Chows—are especially prone to allergies and eczema. White-coated breeds (e.g., Dogo Argentino) also show higher incidence.
How Is Eczema Treated in Dogs?
Once a veterinarian diagnoses eczema and identifies its cause, they will craft an individualized treatment plan based on the underlying trigger, lesion severity, and itch intensity. Treatments may include:
Medicated baths
Ectoparasiticides
Antihistamines
Antibiotics
Antifungal medications
Dietary elimination
Corticosteroids or immunosuppressants in severe cases
Medicated Baths
Therapeutic shampoos contain compounds to soothe inflamed skin and antimicrobial/antifungal agents. Frequent washing (once or twice weekly) can remove allergens from the coat, protecting the skin. Post‑wash rinse treatments help maintain skin and coat moisture.
Antihistamines
Safe for many dogs and sometimes very effective at controlling allergic skin disease, antihistamines are prescribed to relieve itching.
Antibiotics and Antifungals
Secondary bacterial or fungal infections often require targeted antibiotic or antifungal therapy.
Flea Control
Strict flea prevention is essential to rule out flea allergy as a contributing factor and to prevent further aggravation of lesions.
Nutritional Supplements
Omega‑3 and Omega‑6 fatty acid supplements improve skin health. As natural anti‑inflammatories and antioxidants, they support skin barrier repair and reduce inflammation without significant side effects.
Dietary Management
Hypoallergenic diets contain novel proteins and carbs that the dog has never encountered, often of low molecular weight to avoid allergic recognition. An elimination diet trial of at least eight weeks is crucial for diagnosing and managing food allergies.
Corticosteroids and Immunosuppressants
Used sparingly due to side effects, steroids reduce inflammation and itching when other treatments fail. Side effects include increased thirst, appetite, urination, behavioral changes, and long‑term risks like diabetes and reduced infection resistance. Cyclosporine can be effective for allergic inflammation but may be cost‑prohibitive for larger breeds.
Environmental Control
Once specific allergens are identified, avoidance is the best control strategy—even if the dog has received allergy immunotherapy.
Topical Treatments
Veterinarians may prescribe ointments or creams for lesions. Proper application requires cleaning the area first, often with antiseptic solutions, to ensure efficacy.
Prognosis: With appropriate diagnosis and a multimodal treatment plan including allergy management, topical care, and environmental control eczema in dogs can often be managed effectively. However, severe or chronic cases may require ongoing therapy and careful monitoring.
