Nottingham extends Itchy Dog Project
Dogs that scratched less severely tended to have their conditions managed without the use of medications.
An online study that aims to help researchers further understand the causes of canine atopic dermatitis is being extended to all breeds of dogs.
The University of Nottingham’s Itchy Dog Project was initially aimed at people who own Labradors and Golden retrievers. But after receiving more than 4,000 responses, the survey is now being widened to include all dogs in the hope it will help researchers develop new ways to manage the condition.
“We’ve had a fantastic response from golden retriever and Labrador owners to our Itchy Dog project website but we’d now like to identify any similarities or differences in the signs of atopic dermatitis between different breeds,” explained Dr Naomi Harvey from the University’s school of veterinary medicine and science.
“The survey results so far tell us that the most common behavioural signs of the problem are scratching, paw licking or chewing, chewing other areas of their body and rubbing their face and muzzle. These signs were reported in dogs who had been diagnosed with skin allergies and skin infections but did not occur in dogs with no skin problems.
“This suggests that if your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, they are likely to have some form of skin problem and should be seen by a vet.”
Early results from the study show that dogs that scratched less severely tended to have their conditions managed without the use of medications. Instead, they were treated through a combination of topical treatments, fatty acid supplements and bathing or wiping down after walks.
Some of the dog owners who took part were also asked to supply a DNA saliva sample. From the samples, researchers were able to confirm that Labradors and golden retrievers have a genetic susceptibility to atopic dermatitis, with 25-44 per cent being due to genetics and 56-75 per cent being influenced by a dog’s environment.
Owners of any breed, whether they are itchy or not, are now invited to take part in the study. For more information about taking part, visit the Itchy Dog Project website.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
