Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Atopic dermatitis signs and spots in small to medium dogs in Korea
By Ryu, Ji-Hye et al.·Published in Veterinary dermatology·2025·Laboratory of Veterinary Dermatology and the Research Institute for Veterinary Science, South Korea·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Prevalence and lesion distribution of atopic dermatitis in small-to-medium breed dogs in Korea.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that certain small-to-medium dog breeds in Korea, like Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, and French Bulldogs, are more likely to suffer from atopic dermatitis (a skin allergy) compared to other breeds. Shih Tzus often show skin issues on their bellies, while French Bulldogs commonly have problems in their lip folds, tail folds, and paws. Dachshunds tend to have skin lesions on their backs. If you notice your dog scratching, licking, or having red, irritated skin, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet about possible treatments for atopic dermatitis.
People also search for: dog skin allergies treatment · Shih Tzu itching · French Bulldog skin problems · Cocker Spaniel dermatitis signs
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) varies in prevalence and lesion distribution across breeds. In contrast to Western countries, many Asian countries favour small-to-medium dog breeds. However, previous studies have focused primarily on medium-to-large dog breeds. OBJECTIVES: To analyse the prevalence and lesion distribution of cAD in common breeds in Korea, focusing on breed-specific characteristics. ANIMALS: Nine small-to-medium breeds (<25 kg body weight) were selected from 331 client-owned dogs with cAD, representing 77% of the total cAD group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Breeds selected included Maltese, miniature/toy poodle, shih tzu, bichon frise, cocker spaniel, Pomeranian, French bulldog, Yorkshire terrier and Dachshund. The prevalence of these breeds was compared to the registered dog population. Photographs of skin lesions from each dog were reviewed, and the lesion distribution was analysed by breed. RESULTS: Shih tzu, cocker spaniel and French bulldog had a higher prevalence of cAD compared to the registered dog population (p < 0.01). Lesions were most commonly present on the ventral aspects of the body in 51% of shih tzus; lip folds (64%), tail folds (27%) and paws (73%) in French bulldog; and 71% of Dachshunds had dorso-lumbar distribution. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Of the small-to-medium breeds in this study, shih tzu, cocker spaniel and French bulldog had a higher prevalence of cAD compared to the registered dog population, while specific body sites were affected in shih tzu, French bulldog and Dachshund.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39936388/