Canine Atopic Dermatitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & ASIT Immunotherapy

Canine Atopic Dermatitis (Canine Atopy) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition driven by a combination of genetic factors, impaired skin barrier function, and immune reactions to environmental allergens such as house dust mites, pollens, and moulds. The condition is not contagious but requires long-term management.

Signs to Watch For

• Excessive licking or chewing of paw pads and toes
• Redness on the inner surface of both ear flaps (concave pinnae)
• Recurrent skin or ear infections
• Itching that disrupts sleep

Note: These signs are shared with many other conditions — diagnosis depends on a thorough history and veterinary examination.

Causes and Contributing Factors: The condition is multifactorial, involving skin barrier defects, genetic predisposition, and immune responses to allergens. Common aggravating factors include fleas (consistent monthly prevention is essential), bacterial or yeast skin infections, and various irritants.

Diagnosis: Based on history and physical examination, after ruling out parasites, infections, and food allergy. Two allergy tests are available: Intradermal skin test (small amounts of allergens injected into the skin) and Serum IgE test (blood test measuring allergy-related antibodies). ⚠️ Allergy tests cannot diagnose the condition on their own — they are used to identify allergens for ASIT.

Treatment — Three Focus Areas: (1) Itch control — medications to reduce inflammation and pruritus; (2) Skin barrier support — prescribed shampoos and skin care products; (3) Infection management — treating recurrent bacterial or yeast infections.

ASIT — Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy: ASIT gradually reduces sensitivity to specific allergens, delivered as subcutaneous injections or sublingual drops. Takes several months to show benefit — supportive medications may be needed initially.

Home Care: Maintain monthly flea prevention without interruption; use only vet-prescribed shampoos and skin products; track itch severity, sleep quality, and flare patterns; do not adjust medication doses independently.

Prognosis: Long-term management is typically required, but most dogs can maintain a good quality of life with consistent treatment. Flares may occur periodically — regular check-ups allow timely adjustments.

When to Seek Urgent Care: Severe itching disrupting sleep; moist, weeping wounds, pus, or significant ear pain; lethargy, vomiting, or refusal to eat while on medication.

Contact Thonglor Pet Hospital

Have questions about veterinary care for your pet in Thailand? Contact our team to ask about services, find a suitable branch or arrange an appointment.

If you need English-speaking assistance, please let us know when booking so we can confirm availability.

• Book an appointment: Schedule your visit

• Call us: +66 2 079 9999

• LINE: @jaothonglor

• Find a location: Explore our branches

For information about opening hours, treatment costs and preparing for your visit, see our Frequently Asked Questions.