Care and shampoos for dogs with atopic skin

Some dogs may face health problems that require specific care, such as atopic skin. This condition is one of the most common that can affect the quality of life of our pets. For this reason, we will delve into what canine atopic skin is, its possible causes, the symptoms it presents, and how our products, such as treatments and shampoos for dogs with atopic skin, can be the answer your companion needs.

What is atopic skin in dogs?

Canine atopic dermatitis is a common chronic allergic disease, triggered by allergens present in the environment, such as mites, tree pollen, and grasses. It has a multifactorial origin, including alterations in epidermal barrier function, immune system dysfunction, and/or genetic predisposition.

CAD or canine atopic dermatitis usually manifests at an early age and causes discomfort and itching that recur during flare-up periods, persisting throughout the animal's life.

Success in treating this condition lies in combining several strategies to control the different factors and avoid flare-up periods.

Causes of canine atopic skin

Atopic skin in dogs can have multiple causes, including genetic and environmental factors:

1. 1. Allergens

The most common responsible allergens are dust mite glycoproteins and aeroallergens.

2. 2. Altered skin barrier

Normally in CAD, the barrier function is altered and there is a greater transepidermal water loss (TEWEL barriers).

3. 3. Secondary skin infections

CADs are predisposed to develop recurrent superficial pyodermas, and papules, pustules, epidermal collarettes, scaling, and seborrhea are frequently observed. Colonization by pathogenic Staphylococcus species is greater on atopic skin than on healthy skin, which can be partly explained by the lower activity of antimicrobial skin peptides of the innate immune system. About 40% of atopic dogs have recurrent skin infections by Malassezia pachydermatis yeast species, which usually generates a strong odor in the skin, a greasy appearance and the presence of scabs, scaling and paronychia (brown discoloration of nails) and the appearance of pruritus and itching.

4. 4. Control skin inflammation and itching

Control mechanisms for canine atopic skin

1. 1. Allergens:

Avoiding exposure can be quite complicated or impossible, however, vacuuming and washing bedding at 60°C helps reduce the exposure of the dog's skin to these mite allergens. If you have a second pet that causes an epithelial reaction, avoid contact between them.

2. 2. Altered skin barrier

Topical moisturizers such as glycerol, glycerin, propylene glycol, panthenol, and urea will increase the epidermis's water retention capacity, especially after bathing.

3. 3. Secondary skin infections

Regular application of topical treatments (shampoos, foams, sprays, wipes, and gels) effective against bacteria and yeasts.

4. 4. Application of soothing and relaxing active ingredients.

Symptoms of atopic skin in dogs

Symptoms of atopic skin in dogs can vary but generally include:

• Persistent itching.
• Skin redness.
• Hair loss.
• Skin rashes with papules, pustules, and plaques.
• Skin thickening (hyperkeratosis).
• Scaling.
• Lichenification.
• Hyperpigmentation.
• Seborrhea.

These symptoms can cause significant discomfort for your dog and affect their quality of life.

Treatments for dogs with atopic skin

To help relieve the symptoms of atopic skin in dogs, at PSH Cosmetics we have OZONE products. This line is designed for the hygienic treatment of skin with dermatitis, atopic tendency, and inflammatory dermatitis.

Shampoo for dogs with atopic skin: Ozone Soft

The Ozone Soft shampoo for dogs with atopic skin is formulated for mild stages or maintenance of atopic skin in dogs. It contains natural plant extracts, argan oil, and xylitylglucoside, which hydrate and soothe sensitive skin. In addition, it contains lipoamino acids that strengthen the skin barrier function.

Shampoo for dogs with atopic skin: Ozone Hard

The Ozone Hard shampoo for dogs with atopic skin is the ideal option for severe stages or flare-ups of atopic skin in dogs. Like the Soft Shampoo, it contains natural plant extracts, argan oil, and xylitylglucoside, but it is formulated more intensively to relieve severe symptoms of atopic skin.

Conditioner for dogs with atopic skin: Ozone Sweet

The Ozone Sweet conditioner for dogs with atopic skin is an essential part of champutherapy treatment. Formulated with aloe extract and argan oil, it provides hydration and relief for the most reactive skin.

Atopic Skin Foam

In addition to the OZONE line, we also have the Atopic Skin Foam. This champutherapy adjunct foam relieves itching and stinging, improving symptoms in atopic skin. It strengthens the barrier function and improves the comfort of sensitive and reactive skin.

To effectively combat infection and improve the quality of life of your dog with atopic skin, frequent washes are generally recommended. In severe cases, topical treatment is usually started with greater frequency, which means daily washes during the first week, followed by alternate days during the second week, and finally reducing them to twice a week.

In addition, in some therapeutic protocols, the application of a foam, gel, or spray to the lesions twice a week is included, along with a weekly bath using shampoo. These strategies appear to produce equally effective results. Atopic skin in dogs is a condition that requires specialized care, and the OZONE line and Atopic Skin Foam from PSH Cosmetics offer effective solutions to relieve symptoms. Don't let atopic skin affect their well-being; trust PSH Cosmetics products to keep their skin healthy and happy.