My dog is itchy and looks like eczema. How can I relieve this skin problem?

With the arrival of spring, Hong Kong's weather becomes humid and rainy, often leading to recurring skin ailments in dogs. Have you noticed your dog experiencing dandruff, hair loss, redness, itching, and other symptoms? Perhaps even experiencing wounds, inflammation, and suppuration from scratching and biting, followed by repeated scabs and pigmentation after the wounds have healed?

Does your dog have eczema?

It’s worth noting that eczema refers to an inflammatory reaction to the skin . In fact, the disease “dog eczema” does not exist, but because the symptoms and appearance of dogs’ itchy skin, such as rashes and small blisters, are similar to those of human eczema, the term “eczema” is used to help the public understand it.

This article will introduce you to various common dog skin problems and health care methods

Three common dog skin problems and health care methods

1. Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin disease in dogs. One possible cause is a weakened immune system, which leads to a surge in the number of dandruff bacteria on the skin. This disease is very common in Shih Tzus . In fact, studies have shown that up to 80% of Shih Tzus suffer from this disease . The dog will shed a lot of dandruff and produce an unpleasant odor due to excessive oil secretion.

Seborrheic dermatitis health care methods:

  • Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction that usually occurs in areas with a high distribution of sebaceous glands.
  • Bathing at least twice a week
  • Use with an effective oil-removing body wash, such as Dermoscent Essential 6 Sebo Shampoo .
  • Of course, the treatment method will vary depending on the dog's condition. It is recommended that the owner consult a veterinarian before treatment and follow the instructions.

2. Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease associated with an overactive immune system. Most dogs first develop the disease between six months and three years of age, and it can become more severe as they age.

Atopic dermatitis is often characterized by itching, which typically occurs around the eyes, ears, abdomen, groin, armpits, or between the toes. Otitis externa is also a common symptom. If a dog constantly scratches and licks, it can lead to hair loss, dandruff, or pigmentation. Common lesions include small papules and erythema all over the body.

Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is often difficult because bacterial and fungal infections can further worsen skin symptoms.

Atopic dermatitis treatment and health care methods:

  • Drug treatment: Find the possible cause and initially give steroids, immunosuppressants and other drugs. Once the skin condition improves, the dosage can be reduced until the symptoms are relieved.
  • Cleans and suppresses inflammation and itching: Consider using skin products that soothe skin inflammation, such as the Dermoscent ATOP 7 series
  • Supplement your diet with appropriate amounts of Omega-3, Vitamin A and Vitamin E

3. Fungal dermatitis

Fungal dermatitis is a skin disease that often develops during hot, humid summer months. When a dog's immune system is weakened, their skin is vulnerable to bacterial or fungal infections, leading to infection. Symptoms of fungal dermatitis include an unpleasant odor, patchy hair loss, and dandruff. Depending on the severity, dandruff, scabs, and pigmentation may also occur.

Fungal dermatitis can occur anywhere on the skin, but areas such as junctions, skin folds, and the spaces between the soles and toes are more susceptible to infection. Treatments for fungal dermatitis include topical medications, oral medications, and external medications.

Treatment and health care methods for fungal dermatitis:

  1. Medication: When an acute, large-scale skin infection occurs, an important first step is to seek professional veterinary diagnosis. Your veterinarian will assess the severity and cause of the condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Especially for fungal infections, it's crucial to follow your veterinarian's prescription medication for effective treatment.
  2. Combine treatment with effective skin care products: Consider using skin care products to control skin infections. For example, the Dermoscent PYOClean series has been clinically proven to speed up skin recovery and reduce the use of medications, thereby reducing the burden on the dog's liver and kidney function.
  3. Bathe your dog once a week to regularly clean the dirt, bacteria and oil secretions on his body

Dermoscent - A brand for pet skin and hair problems

French pet skin and hair brand Dermoscent was founded by veterinarians and human skincare experts. Their products, all supervised by veterinarians and clinically studied, can help alleviate common dog dermatitis and improve skin problems, making them a worthwhile consideration for pet owners.

>>Learn more about Dermoscent brand products

If your dog's skin symptoms persist and you'd like to try Dermoscent brand body wash, fill out the registration form below to request a trial pack!