“Dear Dr. Kraemer,
I’ve been grappling with a persistent skin issue with my French Bulldog, Sophie. 🐶 She’s been experiencing intense itching and discomfort, especially in response to environmental factors.
Sophie frequently scratches, bites at her paws, and there are visible red patches on her skin. I’m unsure of the best approach for relief.
I’ve adjusted her diet, based on your expertise, what diagnostic steps should we consider, and are there targeted treatments oI can explore?Warm regards,
[Jamie T.& “Sophie the Frenchie] #SophieTheFrenchie #AtopicItchingAllergy” 💖
Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis is the most common allergy seen in bulldogs.
Bulldog Atopic Itch Allergy 5 X MUST KNOW
- Environmental atopic itch allergy is the most common allergy in bulldogs.
- There are outdoor and indoor allergens most affected by contact with skin (vs. inhalation)
- Bacterial and yeast infections are secondary to allergies.
- Washing the allergens off the skin and itch control is essential and should include non-RX bully therapeutics.
- Prevention and care include Dr. Kraemer’s Bulldog Allery and Itch Control Bundles.
Members of this bulldog community prefer prevention over RX
Bulldog and French Bulldogs COMMON ALLERGIES:
- BULLDOG ALLERGIC ATOPIC ITCH DERMATITIS
- BULLDOG FLEA ALLERGY DERMATITIS
- BULLDOG FOOD ALLERGY DERMATITIS
- BULLDOG CONTACT ALLERGY DERMATITIS
Other less common bulldog and French bulldog skin conditions are:
- Bulldog demodex red mites
- Bulldog sarcoptic mites
- Bulldog dermatophytes: (ringworm)
- Bulldog pemphigus: autoimmune skin disease
- Bulldog Keratinization abnormalities
- Bulldog skin cancer: mast cell tumors, lymphoma, etc
Most bulldog skin allergies will also present with secondary bacterial infections and/or yeast infections
Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs: CAUSE
BULLDOG ALLERGY OUTDOOR ALLERGENS
- WEEDS
- GRASS
- POLEN
BULLDOG ALLERGY INDOOR ALLERGENS
- MOLD
- DUST MITE
- HUMAN DANDER
Most allergens affect pets via contact with the skin not via the airways (inhalation allergies are rare)
Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis in Bulldogs: PRESENTATION
Symptoms include:
- INTENSE ITCH:
- REDNESS & SORES: usually self-inflicted (iatrogenic)
- FLAKY & CRUSTY
- SEBBOREAH SICCA or OLSA: Bully Dry or/ Oily Flaky Skin Seborrhea
- SMELL
- ALOPECIA: bold and hairloss
- BACTERIA INFECTION: secondary to the itch
- YEAST INFECTION: Secondary bully Yeast Infection
Itching is the whole mark of bulldog & French bulldog allergies
Allergy Itch Dermatitis in Bulldogs: DIAGNOSIS:
- CYTOLOGY: microscopic exam of a skin impression to check for bacteria, yeast, and abnormal cells
- SCRAPE: skin scrape microscopic exam to check for demodex and sarcoptic mange
- VARL: Liquid Gold serum allergy blood test to test for indoor and outdoor allergen sensitivity
- FOOD TRIAL: hypoallergenic diet trial to r/o food allergy
- FLEA EXAM: check for typical dorsal lumber lesions and flea poop
- SKIN CULTURE: culture sensitivity for nonresponsive pets to multidrug-resistant bacteria such as MRSP
- FUNGAL CULTURE: check for ringworm (dermatophytes)
Bulldog and Fr. Bulldog Allergies: THERAPEUTIC TOPICALS
Therapeutic TOPICALS & SUPPLEMENTS are an internal essential part of any bully skin problem management
BULLDOG ITCH CONTROL:
- Medicated Shampoo
- Medicated Conditioner
HOW OFTEN: 1-2/week with a medicated shampoo
HOW LONG: 10 min. lathering before rinsing
CREAM RINSE CONDITIONER: recommend after shampooing
BULLDOG HYPOALLERGENIC:
- Medicated Shampoo
- Medicated Conditioner:
HOW OFTEN: 1-2/week with a medicated shampoo
HOW LONG: 10 min. lathering before rinsing
CREAM RINSE CONDITIONER: recommend after shampooing
For optimal outcome use a conditioner after shampoo. we offer them as bundles at a reduced cost.
BULLDOG ALLERGY ANTISEPTIC CONTROL:
- Medicated Shampoo& Waterless Gel
- Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Yeasty Bully Antiseptic Shampoo. (10 minutes of lathering before rinsing)
- Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Bully Antiseptic ES Shampoo (5 min. lathering before rinsing).
- Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Yeasty Bully Waterless Gel
HOW OFTEN: 1-2/week with a medicated shampoo
HOW LONG: 10 min. lathering before rinsing
ANTISEPTIC GEL: The waterless gel application is best used on non-bath days; shake and then apply it to hands or directly; finish by rubbing it into the skin and coat.
For optimal outcome, we offer them as bundles at a reduced cost.
Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis in Bulldogs THERAPEUTIC SUPPLEMENTS:
BULLDOG ALLERY THERAPEUTIC FISH OIL (EFA): Essential fatty acids (EFA) that combine Omega 3 and 6 fish oils, vitamins A and D,
BULLDOG ALLERGY THERAPEUTIC PRE & PROBIOTICS: Pre & Probiotics help restore and assist the good gut bacteria (microbiome) and prevent Leaky Gut Syndrome, like
Bulldog Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis REGENERATIVE MEDICINE:
If bulldogs cannot tolerate anti-itch medication such as prednisone (steroid) because of adverse effects, or if pet owners prefer to avoid these drugs due to their potential long-term risks, they should discuss alternative options with their veterinarian.
BULLDOG ALLERGY STEM CELL THERAPY & CRYOBANKING:
Stem cell therapy emerges as a revolutionary, harmless treatment for allergic bulldogs, French bulldogs, and other pets enduring chronic, unresolved itch triggered by allergic atopic itch dermatitis.
Known as stem cell therapy, this contemporary, non-pharmaceutical approach exhibits remarkable potential in addressing diverse inflammatory, immune-mediated, and painful ailments. By harnessing the pet’s inherent repair and anti-inflammatory cells, known as mesenchymal stem cells, this therapy facilitates natural and organic healing for persistent, unresponsive allergies.
Additionally, Dr. Kraemer provides a cost-effective cryobanking program, allowing for future stem cell treatments.
Atopic Itch Dermatitis in Bulldogs: PRESCRIPTION RX:
Bulldog-allergic Dermatitis CYTOPOINT: Cytopoint is a new, long-lasting, non-steroidal monoclonal antibody that targets IL-31, and is a safe itch relief injection that I now offer to my bulldog and French bulldog patients with allergic itch atopic dermatitis. It is usually administered every 4–8 weeks, or as needed.
Bulldog-allergic Dermatitis OTHER RX:
- Itch Control: Steroids, Apoqel, Cyclosporin (Atopica), Anti-Histamines (not very effective)
- Antibiotics
- Antifungal
- Other: Pentoxyphillne
Allergic Atopic Itch in Bulldogs RULE OF THUMB:
Bulldogs and French bulldogs experiencing intense itching should be examined for allergic atopic itch dermatitis. Intense itching frequently results in self-trauma, causing stress and potential sleep disturbances, and as the itch intensifies, it can become painful.
Bulldog atopic itch dermatitis can swiftly escalate into a significant quality of life issue, necessitating prompt intervention. Often, it demands lifelong management and care.
Bulldog Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis TIPS & WARNINGS:
Below are selective atopic dermatitis tips & warnings courtesy of Dr. Kraemer
BULLDOG ALLERGIES ITCHING TIP:
English bulldogs or French bulldogs displaying symptoms such as itchy, red, irritated skin, bumps, chronic pigment changes, or thickened skin should be considered potential cases of bully atopic allergic dermatitis.
BULLDOG ALLERGIES BODY DISTRIBUTION TIP
Bulldog atopic allergic dermatitis distribution is usually to the
- ears
- paws
- legs
- armpits
- abdomen
BULLDOG ALLERGY IMMUNE THERAPY TIP:
A bulldog experiencing itchy skin attributed to environmental allergic atopic itch dermatitis could find relief through a blood test, which identifies the specific allergen causing the allergy. Once the allergens are pinpointed, immune therapy can be initiated to help manage the condition.
- Common outdoor allergens are grass, weeds, and tree/pollen.
- Common indoor allergens are mold, dust mites, and dandruff.
You should realize that it could take months before your bulldog’s itching improves.
Achieving success in managing allergic atopic itch dermatitis in bulldogs may necessitate lifelong and consistent treatment. It’s important for bulldog owners committed to immunotherapy to understand that while it can provide relief, there are no guarantees of a complete cessation of itchiness. Therefore, ongoing use of topical and systemic medications to some degree may still be necessary.
BULLDOG FOOD ALLERGY TIP
I recommend a food elimination trial with a hypoallergenic prescription diet to rule out bulldog and French bulldog food allergies.
BULLDOG CONTACT ALLERY TIP:
If your bulldog presents with itching after a topical product is applied, bully contact allergy is the most likely cause.
BULLDOG FLEA ALLERGY TIP:
I always recommend year-round flea prevention, especially in geographic locations where fleas are common.
ANTI-HISTAMINES TIP:
Over-the-counter antihistamines are sometimes utilized for managing allergic itch and atopic dermatitis, although their effectiveness in this regard is uncertain.
However, these antihistamines are generally considered safe and may have a mild sedative effect, potentially promoting a restful night’s sleep for both the owner and the pet. Therefore, administering one before bedtime could be beneficial.
BULLDOG ALLERGY GENETIC ORIGIN TIP:
We believe that in bulldogs there is a genetic disposition to atopic, itchy allergic dermatitis.
BULLDOG AND FRENCH BULLDOG CYTOLOGY TIP:
Common tests advised for any bulldog or French bulldog suspected of allergic-itch atopic dermatitis include cytology, which involves examining skin cells under a microscope, and sometimes bacterial cultures.
STEM CELL THERAPY TIP:
For bulldog and French bulldog puppy owners who are wary of their associated adverse effects, I now provide a safe, state-of-the-art alternative.
This innovative treatment for chronic allergic atopic itch dermatitis is known as stem cell therapy. It harnesses your pet’s repair and anti-inflammatory cells (stem cells) to naturally heal and address their allergies.
ALLERGIES BATHING TIP:
Most environmental allergens are absorbed through the skin; thus, just a water rinse alone helps remove the allergen, as well as scales and dander.
BULLDOG ALLERGY ENVIRONMENT CONTROL TIP:
Unlike bulldog food allergies, fully eliminating the triggering environmental allergens for allergic itch and atopic dermatitis is often not feasible. However, implementing certain avoidance measures can be beneficial.
For instance, limiting outdoor playtime, particularly during periods of high pollen counts, maintaining short grass, frequent bathing, and regularly changing air conditioner filters can help reduce exposure to allergens.
BULLDOG ALLERGY DUST MITES TIP:
To mitigate the impact of indoor allergens such as dust mites, it’s important to engage in regular dusting of your home and opt for synthetic materials for your bulldog’s bedding. Additionally, frequent vacuuming and washing of bedding, regular replacement of air conditioner filters, and maintaining indoor humidity levels below 50% are advisable measures.
ITCHING ALLERGIES MOLD TIP:
To avoid indoor allergens like mold, you can use air purifiers and humidifiers and avoid household plants and mulch.
ALLERGY TOPICAL TREATMENT TIP:
Topical skin treatment is critical and should always be part of your therapeutic strategy and planning. They should usually include anti-itch and hypoallergenic shampoo and lotion.
Remember, among the benefits of topical therapy is the mechanical removal of allergens from your bulldog and French bulldog’s skin and coat.
FOOD ALLERGY TIP:
Itchy bulldog and French bulldog puppies who are also suffering from concurrent gastrointestinal problems should be suspected of a food allergy.
CYTOPOINT INJECTION TIP:
I now offer bulldogs with atopic itch allergies an effective, safe, long-lasting, new monoclonal, antibody-specified injection.
FISH OIL FOR BULLDOG ALLERGIES TIP:
I always recommend a holistic approach to allergic atopic itch dermatitis in bulldogs that includes essential fatty acids.
FOOD ALLERGY WARNING:
Food allergies can sometimes manifest with similar itching patterns and skin distribution as allergic itch and atopic dermatitis, but it’s essential not to conflate the two conditions.
Food allergies are often more prevalent in young bulldog puppies; they don’t typically follow a seasonal pattern, and they may not respond to itching medications, such as prednisone, in the same manner as puppies with atopic dermatitis do.
Food hypersensitivity refers to an adverse reaction to specific protein sources in your bulldog’s diet.
BULLDOG DEMODEX MITE WARNING:
Bulldogs exhibiting skin allergies suspected of atopic dermatitis should undergo testing for skin mites, including Demodex and sarcoptic mange.
BULLDOG RINGWORM WARNING:
If your bulldog did not respond adequately to prescribed allergy treatments, they should also be tested for
- DTM: ringworm with a DTM fungi culture
- HISTOPATHOLOGY: undergoes a biopsy for histopathology to exclude immune-mediated keratinization defects and cancer.
- HORMONAL TEST: Lastly, a blood test should be conducted to rule out hormonal abnormalities such as hypothyroidism and hyper-adrenal issues.
ALLERGY HYPERSENSITIVITY WARNING:
Don’t confuse hypersensitivity with atopic allergy dermatitis. Hypersensitivity disorders are usually due to vaccine reactions or insect bites and will present with acute onset and swelling, often of the face, lips, and paws.
STEROID WARNING:
Relieving the itch with a steroid might be effective, but long-term use is likely to be damaging, with the potential to cause multiple adverse effects.
MRSP WARNING:
We have been seeing a rise in bacteria that are resistant to common antibiotics (MRSP). If your bulldog is not responsive to the empirical antibiotic prescribed, a culture should be done.
ITCHING DURATION WARNING:
Allergic atopic itch dermatitis in bulldogs is often a long-term condition that can last for the life of your pet and usually requires treatment over an extended period of time.
INDOOR AND OUTDOOR ALLERGY WARNING:
In contrast to bulldog and French bulldog food allergies, whereby elimination of allergens is possible as the method of treatment, avoiding implicated outdoor allergens (grasses, weeds, trees, etc.) and even indoor allergens (mold, dust mites, human dander, etc.) is usually difficult to accomplish.
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