Prevalence and lesion distribution of atopic dermatitis in small-to-medium breed dogs in Korea

Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) varies in prevalence and lesion distribution across breeds. In contrast to Western countries, many Asian countries favour small-to-medium dog breeds. However, previous studies have focused primarily on medium-to-large dog breeds.

To analyse the prevalence and lesion distribution of cAD in common breeds in Korea, focusing on breed-specific characteristics.

Nine small-to-medium breeds (<25 kg body weight) were selected from 331 client-owned dogs with cAD, representing 77% of the total cAD group.

Breeds selected included Maltese, miniature/toy poodle, shih tzu, bichon frise, cocker spaniel, Pomeranian, French bulldog, Yorkshire terrier and Dachshund. The prevalence of these breeds was compared to the registered dog population. Photographs of skin lesions from each dog were reviewed, and the lesion distribution was analysed by breed.

Shih tzu, cocker spaniel and French bulldog had a higher prevalence of cAD compared to the registered dog population (p < 0.01). Lesions were most commonly present on the ventral aspects of the body in 51% of shih tzus; lip folds (64%), tail folds (27%) and paws (73%) in French bulldog; and 71% of Dachshunds had dorso-lumbar distribution.

Of the small-to-medium breeds in this study, shih tzu, cocker spaniel and French bulldog had a higher prevalence of cAD compared to the registered dog population, while specific body sites were affected in shih tzu, French bulldog and Dachshund.