Dermatitis in French bulldogs is a common skin disorder that occurs in dogs who are prone to food and environmental allergies. Unfortunately, Frenchies are one of the dog breeds that are famous for their tendency to develop allergic reactions when something doesn’t suit their immunities. Since dermatitis can be quite painful, we decided to reveal solutions that could help your pet.
What Dermatitis in French Bulldogs Looks Like
French bulldog dermatitis looks like hot spots or red, irritated areas of the skin. Unlike people who get hives, runny noses, or teary eyes, our dogs react with skin and gastrointestinal reactions.
The main reason why Frenchies are more prone to allergies is because of the higher amount of mast cells. They release histamines and other vasoactive substances in the face of an allergic challenge, in the skin of dogs. As the result, our pooches start to chew, lick, and scratch their body parts, and their paws and ears usually become the most affected.
Dermatitis in French bulldogs is otherwise known as atopic dermatitis and it is an inherited predisposition to develop allergic symptoms such as redness of the skin, itchiness, and flakiness. The skin can appear to be oily, dry, or crusty, depending on the case.
Since dog dermatitis is extremely an uncomfortable condition, pets that got affected may also rub their face on the carpet, scratch their ears for blood, and chew and lick their paws. If we leave it untreated, our dogs can develop bacterial infections and develop hairless spots on the skin.
French Bulldog Dermatitis Treatment
First of all, it’s extremely important to notice any change in the skin on time. The earlier you take your Frenchie to a health check, the better will be the chances for the treatment. Since dermatitis in French bulldogs is a serious health issue, we recommend you not treat it at home with products you found suitable on the internet.
These could be the treatments your vet might find suitable for your pet:
Medicated Baths
Dog shampoos that are aimed to soothe injured skin can be one of the options to release the itchiness and uncomfortable feeling. An oatmeal bath can be very helpful, as well as shampoos that feature Aloe Vera, Coconut oil, and Olive oil. Ask your vet for the best French bulldog shampoo with antimicrobial and antifungal agents that won’t dry out your dog’s skin.
For everyday use, we recommend you check the following SOS French bulldog shampoo.
Antihistamines Therapy
Antihistamine therapy seems as one of the best options for treating dermatitis in French bulldogs. They ease the symptoms and block the release of histamines, The most common types of antihistamines prescribed for dogs are Benadryl, Atarax, and Claritin. Even though there aren’t many side effects associated with antihistamines, we always recommend you ask your vet for advice before including them.
Antifungal Medication
In case your dog developed a secondary skin infection, anti-fungal medications are often needed. Your vet has to determine the exact cause of the problem to prescribe the appropriate therapy.
Feed Your Dog With the Appropriate Diet
In case your Frenchie suffers from food allergies, then he will also show gastrointestinal problems. Runny stool, itchy skin, and flatulence can be only some of the signs that will point out a food allergy. Ingredients such as beef, eggs, soy, and corn are responsible for over 70% of allergies in dogs. Instead of feeding your Frenchie with these ingredients, we recommend you include duck, venison, kangaroo, and other types of novel protein sources.
We also recommend measuring the food you give to your Frenchie.
Since carbohydrates are also important for your Frenchie’s body, you can try yams, sweet potatoes, and canned pumpkin instead of corn and soy.
Omega 3 and Omega 6 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids play an important role in boosting your dog’s immunity. They are natural anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative agents, and can’t cause side effects. Therefore, it’s of great importance to include these supplements in your French bulldog’s diet.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids should not be used for more than a few days. They should be considered only as the last option when none of the previously mentioned tips help. It’s because they can lead to resistance to infection, increased appetite, and an increased need to urinate. Corticosteroids give the best results but they should be taken cautiously.
Immunotherapy for Dogs
Immunotherapy gives great results both in people and dogs and it includes giving allergy shots that are specially tailored according to the dog’s needs. When the offending agents are identified, immunotherapy treatment can begin.
Frenchie Dermatitis Treatment At Home
You can keep dermatitis in French bulldogs under control by performing the previously mentioned tips, and also giving your pet an oatmeal bath. You can make a mixture made of 50% oatmeal powder and 50% of water and give your dog a thorough massage. Let the mixture dry on the coat and then bath your Frenchie with mild water. Coconut oil can also release itchiness and strength the skin’s immunity. You can apply it daily on itchy spots that don’t release discharge or blood.