Ichthyosis in DogsIchthyosis is a rare hereditary disease that affects the skin and eyes in dogs. It is not curable, and it is difficult and time consuming to treat. Although your pet may be healthy in all other respects it is best not to breed your dog if you suspect that he/she has this disease. The determination for this skin condition can only be made by a skin biopsy.
Breeds most commonly affectedDoberman pinschersGolden Retrievers Labador Retrievers American Bulldogs Irish Setters Rottweilers Collies English Springer Spaniels Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Terriers Symptoms--All dogs with this skin disease will be abnormal at birth.--Skin cracking and peeling off at about 2 weeks of age. --Eyes are usually affected by kerato conjuctivitis sicca which is an ocular disease. --Because the scales adhere to the skin below and bacteria and yeast come into contact with the scales and skin a strong odor often develops. --Tannish gray scales which are thick and greasy usually form over the skin. --There is often a rough texture to the skin due to keratinous projections. --Large amounts of scaly debris on the skin surface. --Dry reddened patches. --Hard keratin accumulating on paws giving the appearance of larger, heavier than normal paws. --Lesions of the skin are more prominent where there is less hair. --Skin changes are usually irreversible and this skin conditon is not curable. It is difficult to treat. TreatmentSince it can't be cured it must be controlled. Usually your vet will prescribe a special shampoo and a rinse that contains moisturizers. Retinoids have also been affective. Please see your vet for the latest recommendations.Note: Some people choose to euthanize their pet with ichthyosis. I'm not a fan of this unless your pet is in some kind of distress from some other source. If you can not take care of a pet with this skin disease please find someone who would be delighted to share their life and time with this wonderful pet. They are a gift.
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