Itchy Shar-Pei - Itching and Scratching Series

The Shar-pei that scratches constantly due to itching is a common problem. The great majority of these dogs suffer from atopic dermatitis which is an inherited skin barrier deficiency. Breeders of Shar-pei dogs are still in denial about the hereditary nature of this disease has allowed the problem to advance to such alarming levels.

Most of the itchy Shar-pei dogs itch and scratch constantly. They have greasy skin. They have constant skin infection. They chew the feet from sun up to sun down. They lick, bite and scratch themselves and keep their owners awake at night. They get ear infection after ear infection. There are natural treatments that can really help.

The cornerstone of managing these dogs is corticosteroids such as prednisolone. They are cheap and effective however there are many side effects associated with long term use. Cyclosporine "atopica" is another drug commonly used which does not have the severe side effect risks as long term corticosteroids. Cyclosporine does however cause vomiting and diarrhea in many dogs and the dose rate has to be reduced significantly in many dogs which sometimes means it isn't effective. Some dogs adapt to the drug and the nausea, vomiting and diarrhea subsides. Some don't however. Cyclosporine is expensive.

The Shar-pei has terrible ear problems as a result of the atopic dermatitis. Consider a total ear canal ablation if your dog is having problem after problem because it will develop middle ear disease. If you have a very young Shar-pei that has started having ear problems, consider a lateral wall resection as chronic scarring will close the dogs' ear canals.

Many of these dogs have Demodex deep in the skin. It is often hard to find unlike other breeds. Skin biopsy can help. Many get Demodex as a consequence of long term corticosteroid use from prednisolone. If your dog gets constant prednisolone, you should have it skin scraped twice a year. Every itchy dog needs a food elimination trial.

There are many natural treatments that can make a difference.