Dog Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects humans, but did you know that dogs can also suffer from a similar ailment? Dog psoriasis, while less common than in humans, can still be a source of discomfort for our beloved canine companions. Understanding this condition is essential for pet owners to recognize its symptoms and seek appropriate treatment. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of dog psoriasis, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

Can Dogs Get Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a relatively common skin condition in humans, affecting around 2-3% of the population. In contrast, while dogs can develop various skin problems, psoriasis specifically is extremely rare in this species. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition, characterized by patches of red, inflamed skin covered with silvery scales. While it's extremely rare for dogs to develop psoriasis specifically, they can suffer from various skin conditions that may share some similarities with psoriasis in humans.

How is Psoriasis Different in Dogs and Humans?

Psoriasis in humans is primarily an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid turnover of skin cells and the development of characteristic plaques. 

Psoriasis in humans typically presents as red, inflamed patches of skin covered with silvery scales. Dogs may exhibit various skin issues that can mimic some aspects of psoriasis, such as redness, scaling, itching, and inflammation, but the appearance and distribution of lesions may differ from those seen in humans with psoriasis. 

The underlying mechanisms driving psoriasis in humans involve complex interactions between genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, and environmental triggers. In dogs, the causes of skin conditions can vary widely.

What Are the Symptoms of Psoriasis in Dogs?

Identifying the symptoms of psoriasis in dogs is crucial for early detection and treatment. While the presentation of symptoms may vary from one dog to another, common signs of dog psoriasis include:

• Red, Inflamed Skin Patches: Dogs with psoriasis often develop red, scaly patches on their skin, particularly in areas with less hair coverage.

• Flaky Skin: Flakiness or scaling of the skin is a hallmark symptom of psoriasis in dogs. These flakes may resemble dandruff and can be observed on the dog's coat or bedding.

• Itching and Discomfort: Psoriasis can cause itching and discomfort in affected dogs, leading to excessive scratching or licking of the affected areas.

• Thickened Skin: In chronic cases, psoriasis may cause the skin to become thickened or hardened, leading to further discomfort for the dog.

Can Dog Allergies Cause Psoriasis?

While dog allergies can cause various skin issues, including redness, itching, inflammation, and even skin infections, there isn't direct evidence to suggest that dog allergies can cause psoriasis specifically in humans or in dogs.

However, dogs can develop allergic reactions to various environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, molds, or certain ingredients in their food. These allergies can manifest as dermatitis, often referred to as allergic or atopic dermatitis, which can cause symptoms similar to those seen in psoriasis, such as redness, itching, and inflammation of the skin. 

What Other Causes Psoriasis in a Dog?

Psoriasis in dogs shares similarities with the human form of the condition, although the exact causes may differ. While the precise etiology of dog psoriasis remains unclear, several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

Genetics: Just as in humans, genetics likely play a role in predisposing certain dog breeds to psoriasis. Certain breeds may be more susceptible to developing the condition than others.

Immune System Dysfunction: Psoriasis is considered an autoimmune disorder in humans, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. A similar mechanism may be at play in dog psoriasis, although research in this area is ongoing.

Environmental Triggers: Environmental factors such as allergens, pollutants, or even stressors may exacerbate psoriasis symptoms in susceptible dogs.

• Bacterial or Fungal Infections: Infections caused by bacteria or fungi can lead to skin inflammation, scaling, and other symptoms that may resemble psoriasis. Common examples include bacterial pyoderma and fungal dermatitis.

• Parasitic Infestations: Parasites such as fleas, ticks, mites, or lice can irritate the skin, leading to itching, scratching, and skin lesions. In severe cases, these infestations can cause secondary infections and skin inflammation.

How is Psoriasis Diagnosed in Dogs?

Diagnosing psoriasis in dogs can be challenging. 
Once at the vet, they will begin with a physical examination of your dog’s body. During this exam, they’ll look for patches of skin that are red, dry, scaly, cracked, or bleeding. Any of these are good indications that your dog may be suffering from a skin disorder like psoriasis. 

When assessing a dog with suspected psoriasis or psoriasis-like symptoms, a veterinarian will typically conduct a thorough physical examination and may perform additional diagnostic tests, such as skin scrapings, cytology, and fungal cultures, to rule out other potential causes of skin issues.

Differences between seborrhea in dogs and psoriasis

Seborrhea, or seborrheic dermatitis, is characterized by excessive production of sebum, an oily substance, by the sebaceous glands. This can lead to scaly, flaky, itchy, or red skin in dogs. Seborrhea is typically caused by factors such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, allergies, or skin infections.

While psoriasis is marked by rough, red scales that develop into thick, silver scales across the body, seborrheic scales exhibit a range of colors, including white, yellow, red, or brown, and they often feel extremely greasy. Typically, seborrheic scales are prevalent on the scalp, the oilier regions of the face, and the upper chest.

Differences between eczema and psoriasis in dogs

Eczema in dogs, also known as allergic or atopic dermatitis, is characterized by inflamed, itchy, and irritated skin. Eczema may lead to dry, crusty, oozing, or swollen skin in dogs. The primary sign of a dog with psoriasis is a severely inflamed skin with red, scaly patches.

There's a notable contrast in the areas where psoriasis and eczema typically appear on a dog's body. Psoriasis tends to manifest on a dog's elbows, knees, palms, back, or chest. On the other hand, eczema tends to occur in regions where the body bends, such as the neck, wrists, inner elbow, or the opposite side of the knee.

How to Treat Psoriasis in Your Dog?

While dog psoriasis cannot be cured, various treatment options are available to manage the condition and alleviate symptoms. Treatment strategies may include:

Topical Therapies: Topical treatments such as medicated shampoos, creams, or ointments containing ingredients like coal tar, salicylic acid, or corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the skin.

Puainta® Combination - Skin Spray + Ointment + Banov Shower Gel Pipot Skin Spray- Indicated for ringworm in dogs and cats, dermatitis， eczema, hair loss, skin redness, mite infection. Compound Ketoconazole Ointment- Indicated for ringworm in dogs and cats, hair loss, pruritus, skin redness, fungal infections Banov Shower Gel- Reduces allergies and itching, soothes skin, and nourishes hair, for skin cleaning and care purpose

Oral Medications: In more severe cases, veterinarians may prescribe oral medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to control inflammation and modulate the immune response.

Dietary Modifications: Some dogs may benefit from dietary changes aimed at reducing inflammation and strengthening the immune system. Consultation with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended to determine the most appropriate diet for a dog with psoriasis.

Lifestyle Adjustments: Minimizing exposure to potential triggers such as allergens or environmental pollutants and providing a stress-free environment can help manage psoriasis symptoms in dogs.

How to Prevent Psoriasis in Dogs

To help prevent psoriasis in dogs, there are several strategies you can implement:

Strengthening the Immune System

Enhancing your dog's immune system can help protect against autoimmune disorders like psoriasis. Providing regular exercise, including daily outdoor time for at least twenty minutes, can help prevent Vitamin D deficiency, which supports healthy skin and tissue function.

Physical Contact and Massage

Dogs benefit from physical contact and affection. Research suggests that massaging and petting your dog can reduce the production of stress hormones in their body, leading to enhanced immune function and reduced inflammatory responses. Regular bonding activities like petting your dog can also have positive effects on your own health and well-being.

Healthy Diet

Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining overall health, including skin health. Ensure your dog's diet includes high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support optimal immune function and skin health.

	Puainta® Multivitamin Chews Multivitamin tablets supplement required vitamins in dogsand cats. This products helps to improve their coat or hair, supporthealthy physical development and maintain normal vision.
	Puainta™ Fish Oil Concentrate for Dogs and Cats Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat: Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, which can help improve the overall health and appearance of a cat's skin and coat. It can help reduce dryness, itchiness, and flakiness, and promote a soft, shiny coat.

Conclusion

Dog psoriasis, while relatively uncommon, can significantly impact a dog's quality of life if left untreated. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition, pet owners can take proactive measures to ensure the health and well-being of their furry companions. Early detection and intervention are key to managing dog psoriasis effectively, and pet owners should not hesitate to seek veterinary care if they suspect their dog may be suffering from this skin condition. With proper management, many dogs with psoriasis can lead happy, comfortable lives.