Canine Atopic Dermatitis: new approaches in the management of atopic dogs

Canine Atopic Dermatitis is a common cause of pruritus and dermatitis in dogs and has complex pathomechanisms requiring a multimodal approach in its treatment and management. This approach includes treating and managing recurrent infections, controlling pruritus, taking preventative measures and managing owner compliance and expectations.

Depending on the severity of the clinical signs, symptomatic treatment and preventative therapy (e.g. allergen avoidance, allergen-specific immunotherapy) may be implemented. Symptomatic treatments to manage pruritus include the use of oclacitinib, lokivetmab, glucocorticoids and ciclosporin. Other treatments for canine atopic dermatitis, which include antihistamines, essential fatty acid supplements, shampoo treatments and specific diets, are also used concurrently in the multimodal approach for the management of atopic dermatitis. The aim of this paper is to discuss the approaches to acute and chronic atopic dermatitis, and preventative measures that could reduce the incidence and severity of flare-ups.