Canine Atopic Dermatitis (cAD)

Canine Atopic Dermatitis (cAD) is a common inflammatory skin condition in dogs, associated with a complex polygenic background. In Boxers and French Bulldogs a mutation in the Signaling Lymphocytic Activation Molecule Family Member 1 (SLAMF1) gene has been identified as a risk factor for developing the disease. This gene is also known as CD150.

Atopic dermatitis typically begins in young dogs and is triggered by environmental allergens such as dust mites, pollens, and mold spores. In some dogs, this condition is present in combination with a food allergy. cAD is not contagious and can affect both purebred and mixed-breed dogs.

Affected dogs show signs of (chronic) itching, scratching, licking, or rubbing. Often focused on the paws and digits, armpits, groin and/or ears. Red or inflamed skin, hair loss, and secondary infections are common, along with recurrent ear infections (otitis externa). Symptoms typically start before three years of age. While cAD is a lifelong condition, it often can be managed with appropriate care and medication.

Publications mention that boxers with one copy of the SLAMF1 variant are 2.75 times more likely to develop cAD than a Boxer without any copies of the variant, and a Boxer with two copies is 7.56 times more likely to develop cAD compared to a Boxer free of the mutation. French Bulldogs with one copy of the SLAMF1 variant are 1.89 times more likely to develop cAD than a French Bulldog without any copies of the variant, and a French Bulldog with two copies is 3.57 times more likely to develop cAD than a French Bulldog without a copy.

Pubmed ID: 40612147

Year published: 2025

Omia ID: 269

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