Chronic skin disease isn’t just an itch—it may also impact your dog’s emotional world. This new study reveals striking links between atopic dermatitis and increased fear, anxiety, and aggression.
Does your itchy dog seem more anxious or reactive? A growing body of research suggests that chronic pruritus isn’t just a skin-deep problem—it can alter your dog’s mood, behaviour, and quality of life.
McAuliffe et al. (2022) examined 141 dogs diagnosed with atopic dermatitis and a >3-month history of itching. Compared to healthy dogs, these dogs showed significant increases in fear-based and aggressive behaviours, including:
- Stranger-directed and owner-directed aggression
- Familiar-dog aggression and dog-directed fear
- Nonsocial fear and touch sensitivity
- Increased excitability and attention-seeking
Additionally, trainability scores were lower among affected dogs. This indicates a deeper cognitive-emotional impact of long-term skin inflammation on the canine brain and behaviour.
The key takeaway: Chronic itch may drive behavioural derangement. A multidisciplinary treatment plan that addresses both dermatological and behavioural aspects can improve outcomes for both dogs and their owners. This is not just about treating the skin—it’s about healing the dog.
