Pemphigus in dogs is an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks skin cells, causing blisters and crusts, with most cases being idiopathic (no known cause) but often triggered by genetic predispositions (like Akitas, Chow Chows), certain drugs (antibiotics, flea/tick meds), UV light, infections, or underlying cancers. The condition stems from autoantibodies targeting proteins that hold skin cells together, leading to separation and visible lesions.

How does a dog get pemphigus?

Endogenous cases of pemphigus are caused by some factor within the dog. These factors may include the dog's breed or a genetic predisposition. Some dogs have defects in their immune function, making their immune system more likely to mount an attack against normal cells.

What causes pemphigus to flare up?

Some people find that stress and eating certain spicy, acidic, or citrus foods make pemphigus vulgaris worse. This may be true even during treatment. Pay attention to what helps you feel better and what makes symptoms worse.

How to treat pemphigus in dogs?

The treatment of pemphigus foliaceus includes the administration of oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone or prednisolone (2 mg/kg). If this therapy fails to achieve efficacy in dogs, oral cicosporine could be considered as an option at 5-10 mg/kg once daily (Koch et al., 2012).

What can trigger autoimmune disease in dogs?

It is believed that there is genetic variance in the MHC that causes the individual or dog to be more susceptible to an autoimmune reaction, and that various environmental factors from viruses, bacteria, and allergens, to toxins can set off that susceptibility.

September 2019 Medical Monday: Pemphigus Foliaceous

How to reverse autoimmune disease in dogs?

Treatment of Autoimmune Disease in Dogs

Steroids at high doses are the most prescribed drug and the most effective, though they have adverse side effects. To minimize or avoid these side effects, other immunosuppressive drugs may be used in conjunction with steroids.

What dog breeds are prone to pemphigus?

While any dog can develop pemphigus foliaceous, Akitas and Chow Chows are common victims. Other breeds that seem to show a higher incidence include Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd dogs, English Bulldogs and Cocker Spaniels.

What foods trigger pemphigus?

Thiols, thiocyanates, phenols and tannins, that are found in many foods, can trigger pemphigus in a person who has a genetic predisposition for the condition. These include: Vegetables: Garlic, onion, mustard, turnip, broccoli, radish, cabbage, cauliflower, potato, leek, shallots, chives, tomatoes and ginger.

What supplements are good for dogs with pemphigus?

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), 500 to 1,000 mg BID, for large dogs, is also helpful. Because of the role vitamin C plays in regenerating vitamin E back to its antioxidant form, I recommend they always be used together. Vitamins E and C are also useful for pemphigus.

Can diet help dogs with autoimmune disease?

Out of all the autoimmune disease triggers in dogs, the one dog parents can control most easily is food. A natural diet that is rich in antioxidants, quality proteins, and healthy fats will help reduce inflammation and combat other immune disease symptoms.

Which vitamin worsens pemphigus?

They conclude that the associated vitamin D insufficiency in patients may exacerbate their disease through various immune related mechanisms (14). In addition, Marzano et al. found the same data and hypothesized that vitamin D deficiency may play a key role in the patho-physiology of pemphigus vulgaris (15).

What bacteria cause pemphigus?

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the second most common cause of cutaneous bacterial infection in pemphigus cases after Staphlyococcus aureus.

What can be mistaken for pemphigus?

Pemphigus is sometimes confused with other autoimmune blistering skin conditions such as bullous pemphigoid, lupus erythematosus and Hailey-Hailey disease.

Can stress trigger autoimmune disease in dogs?

Inflammation and autoimmune disorders: Chronic stress can lead to increased inflammation in the body. Inflammation can lead to chronic diseases and autoimmune disorders, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues.

What does pemphigus look like on a dog?

Pemphigus foliaceus usually appears on the head, face, and ears with symmetrical lesions on both sides of the head. A dog's footpads are often affected as well. The trunk of their body is sometimes affected, but it's not always obvious unless the fur is shaved. Lesions typically look like pustules.

What kills skin fungus on dogs?

Itraconazole is perhaps the most commonly used antifungal veterinarians reach for in light of a diagnosis of systemic fungal disease. Itraconazole is an oral medication useful in treating pets with histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, and a variety of other fungal infections.

What is the strongest natural anti-inflammatory for dogs?

- Common natural anti-inflammatory treatments for dogs include Turmeric and Golden Paste, Oily fish, Pineapple, Ginger, Blueberries, Broccoli and Boswellia Serrata. - Beneficial anti-inflammatory supplements include Omega-3 fatty acids, Collagen, Devil's Claw, Yucca, Vitamins E and C and CBD oil.

What is the best thing to give my dog for skin allergies?

Antihistamines for Skin Allergies in Dogs. Antihistamines help to control itching in approximately 1/4 to 1/3 of dogs with skin allergies, especially if started when skin itch is still mild and if used with Omega-3 Fatty Acids (see below).

How do I naturally boost my dog's immune system?

Pro-immunity extras include red-bell peppers, berries (such as strawberries and blueberries), as well as spinach, carrots or kale. Many dogs will take these offerings as training treats, or they can be added to their meals. If you feel that your dog needs immune support beyond this level, consult your veterinarian.

Should I bathe my dog if it's itching and licking itself?

Whenever possible, it's best to treat the underlying cause of a dog's itching, but sometimes symptomatic treatment is needed too. Bathing your dog—particularly using a vet-approved calming shampoo and offering omega-3 fatty acid supplements—can reduce itching in dogs.

What dogs do vets not recommend?

Vets often advise against owning certain breeds, especially brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and English Bulldogs due to severe breathing, skin, eye, and birthing issues; high-energy working dogs like Belgian Malinois and Siberian Huskies because they need extreme stimulation; and breeds with genetic predispositions like Dachshunds (back problems) or Chow Chows, citing health and welfare concerns. They see the suffering behind popular aesthetics, leading to recommendations against breeds with exaggerated features or intense needs.
 

What triggers autoimmune diseases in dogs naturally?

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure is thought to be a predisposing or “triggering” cause of autoimmune skin diseases in some dogs, especially those with thin, light-colored coats. Certain drugs have also been reported as potential triggers for pemphigus foliaceus, a common form of autoimmune skin disease in dogs.

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