Contact dermatitis in dogs

Contact dermatitis in dogs is an allergic reaction after exposure to a substance or allergen. This results in inflammation of the skin. Dogs can develop reactions to many things, like shampoo, pollen, or even insects. Contact dermatitis is not as common as atopic dermatitis in dogs.

Contact dermatitis is not usually a life-threatening condition. It can cause your dog to be very itchy, but with appropriate management, the long-term prognosis is good. Dogs of all ages can be affected by contact dermatitis.

Overview

What is contact dermatitis in dogs?

Contact dermatitis in dogs occurs due to physical contact with irritating substances or allergens, such as:

Seasonal environmental triggers like grass, plants, fertilisers and pollen. Changing walking routes can also mean coming into contact with new substances.
Changes in bedding, washing powder, shampoos, and other cleaning products.
Insect bites, especially fleas
Textiles, plastic and some medications

Contact dermatitis can be a life-long condition but avoiding the triggers will resolve the symptoms.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of contact dermatitis in dogs

The most common signs of contact dermatitis include:

Sudden, intense itch causing scratching, biting, and licking
Hives
Red skin, a rash or blisters
Hair loss
Darkened skin: hyperpigmentation

The area of the body affected is usually the part that’s been in contact with the irritating substance. These are usually the areas with less hair, such as the paws, underside of the body and muzzle.

Contact dermatitis can lead to skin infections if not treated, such as hotspots.

Risk

Are some dogs more at risk of contact dermatitis than others?

Contact dermatitis can be more common in dogs that have other allergies, such as to food or fleas.

Diagnosis

How is contact dermatitis diagnosed in dogs?

An important part of diagnosis includes a thorough history discussion with your vet. Let them know about any new changes in the house or the outdoor routine of your dog.

Further tests can help rule out other causes of itchy skin:

Skin scrapes, culture or biopsy
Allergy testing
Diet trial

The diagnosis may sometimes be confirmed by avoiding the suspected trigger and then re-introducing it.

Vet treatment

What’s the treatment for contact dermatitis in dogs?

Treatment of contact dermatitis is similar to that of atopic dermatitis, except medication is not usually needed long-term.

Anti-itch medication, such as anti-histamines or steroids
Antibiotics for secondary skin infections
Anti-parasite medication to reduce or control triggers

Home treatment

How to look after a dog with contact dermatitis at home

Dogs with severe itching will need prescription medication from the vet. At home, you can also help by:

Avoiding contact with any known triggers, where possible
Bathing regularly to reduce contact with allergens or irritants
Preventing self-trauma by using a buster collar or medical suit until the itch is under control
Using vet-recommended skin calming shampoos or mousses
Keep your dog up-to-date with parasite control

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent contact dermatitis in dogs

It’s currently not known why contact dermatitis develops in dogs. Therefore, preventing it before it happens is not possible. Prevention, once your dog has been diagnosed with it, is possible if the trigger(s) are isolated and avoided.