Introduction

Eczema refers to any superficial irritation and inflammation of the outer layers of the skin, which collectively are called the epidermis, regardless of the underlying cause. The symptoms of epidermal inflammation are virtually identical to those of dermatitis (any inflammation of the skin), and they can vary quite a bit.

Symptoms of Eczema in Dogs

Depending on the cause of the condition, symptoms of eczema may include one or more of the following:

• Skin redness (erythema); rash
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Itchiness (pruritis)
• Licking, scratching, biting, chewing at affected areas of skin
• Face rubbing
• Pain
• Papules (solid, red, well-circumscribed elevation of the skin)
• Pustules
• Vesicles (well-circumscribed elevation of the skin filled with serum; blister)
• Weeping skin sores (hot spots)
• Matted, moist haircoat
• Oozing
• Crusting (residue of dried blood, pus, epithelial cells, bacteria and/or other debris)
• Scaling; dandruff
• Skin dryness and flaking
• Abnormal skin pigmentation (darkening)
• Skin thickening (lichenification; feels like elephant skin)

Dogs at Increased Risk

Many cases of eczema are seasonal, with the condition worsening in hot humid weather or extremely dry weather. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors are at increased risk of being bitten by external parasites. Immune-mediated allergies typically have a hereditary component.