Poodle Eczema: What Causes It and How Do I Treat It?

Eczema is a general term that refers to the inflammation of the outer layers of the skin. Canine eczema is commonly referred to as ‘hot spots’, and the affected dog or puppy will suffer from extremely itchy skin. Poodles commonly develop eczema on their back, legs, in-between the hind legs, on the tail, side and even between the toes (interdigital eczema).

Poodles with eczema will lick, bite, chew, scratch and rub at their skin, which leads to weeping sores on their skin. Canine eczema is often seasonal, being worse in hot, humid or dry weather.

There are two types of canine eczema, dry and moist or wet. Dry eczema is characterized by dry, grey, flaky and the skin that may start to wrinkle. Moist eczema, on the other hand, leads to red and scaly skin, which produces a wet discharge.

What Causes Poodle Eczema?

 There are several causes for skin inflammation including, contact with irritating chemicals, dust or plants, extreme temperatures, dryness or humidity. External parasites such as fleas and ticks, allergies, insect bites, poor nutrition, and viral, bacterial, fungal or yeast-based infections may also cause eczema in Poodles.

 How is Poodle Eczema Treated?

 In order to treat dog eczema, your veterinarian will need to identify what is causing this skin inflammation to your dog. It is important that you provide the vet with as much information as possible. For example, the vet will need to know if your Poodle sleeps on the outside or inside of the house, has he/she ever been diagnosed with fleas? Does he or she has any allergies? When did the skin inflammation started? Is your Poodle receiving any mediation?

Once the cause is established, your Poodle will receive the appropriate treatment, which may be in the form of oral or topical medication, or some lifestyle changes.

About The Author

Dr. Stephanie Flansburg-Cruz practices mixed animal veterinary medicine and she has a special interest in shelter medicine and animal welfare. Stephanie enjoys volunteering at local animal shelters, reading, writing and traveling.