Canine atopic dermatitis

Canine atopic dermatitis is a chronic, itchy, inflammatory skin disease in dogs linked to an allergic response to environmental substances such as pollen, dust mites, or mold.

The condition usually appears in young adult dogs and tends to be lifelong, with flares that follow seasons or exposure. Typical signs are scratching, licking, rubbing, and chewing, most often at the paws, ears, armpits, belly, and around the eyes and muzzle, with redness, hair loss, and secondary skin infections developing over time. A veterinarian diagnoses it by ruling out parasites, food allergy, and infection, then matching the history and pattern of lesions to established criteria.

Management is usually long-term and combines allergen avoidance, skin barrier care, and prescribed medications chosen by the veterinarian. Cannabinoids have been examined in a small number of controlled canine studies, with early work looking at itch scores and lesion severity, and results so far are preliminary. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved any cannabinoid for use in animals. Owners of an itchy dog should work with a veterinarian on diagnosis and a long-term plan.