Atopy, also known as allergic inhalant dermatitis and atopic dermatitis, is an allergic reaction in dogs which causes intense itching on the body, hair loss, and continual ear infections. This type of condition can be extremely frustrating to dog owners, not to mention the pets themselves.
Symptoms of atopy in dogs normally begin when the dog reaches one to two years of age, and the symptoms generally worsen as the dog becomes older. Atopy symptoms will also tend to worsen during certain times of the year such as the spring and summer months.
Mild cases of atopy in dogs are treated with oral antihistamine medication and fatty acid supplements. If the atopy has caused a bacterial infection on the dog’s skin, or wounds from licking, than antibiotic therapies are prescribed. For severe bacterial infections some dogs are placed on strong antibiotic doses for 3 weeks or longer.