New Global Survey Reveals Growing Frustration Over Managing Itchy Dogs

For many veterinarians, treating dogs with chronic itching can feel like an endless cycle of trial, error, and frustrated pet owners. A new global survey suggests that veterinarians and dog owners are more aligned than ever on one thing: current treatment options don't always meet expectations.

The survey which included more than 1,400 veterinarians and 1,700 dog owners across multiple countries, found that allergic skin disease remains one of the most common reasons dogs visit veterinary clinics. In the United States alone, veterinarians reported that approximately one-third of canine patients are seen for itchy skin or allergic skin disease.

The condition's impact extends far beyond the patient.

More than four in ten dog owners reported that their pet's skin condition significantly reduced their dog's quality of life. Nearly one-third said managing their dog's itching negatively affected their own quality of life as well.

A Common Problem With No Easy Solution

Veterinarians and pet owners frequently discuss itching during appointments, with most owners reporting they have spoken to their veterinarian about the issue and many scheduling visits specifically because of their dog's skin problems.

Yet despite these conversations, finding the right treatment remains a challenge.

More than one-third of veterinarians and nearly one-third of dog owners reported switching antipruritic therapies within the past year. The most common reasons were straightforward: treatments weren't working well enough, concerns about safety, and the desire for more targeted options.

The findings highlight a reality many practitioners know well. Allergic skin disease is rarely a one-size-fits-all condition. Managing flare-ups, identifying triggers, and maintaining long-term control often requires ongoing adjustments and client education.

What Veterinarians and Owners Want

When asked what matters most in an antipruritic treatment, both groups prioritized effectiveness.

Dog owners ranked efficacy as the most important feature, followed by safety and treatments specifically designed to target itch. Veterinarians similarly ranked effectiveness at the top of their list, while also placing a strong emphasis on rapid onset of action.

The survey also revealed that convenience plays a major role in treatment decisions.

Owners were more likely to adopt new therapies when they were easier to administer, safer, or recommended by their veterinary team. Veterinarians, meanwhile, reported being motivated by improved efficacy, better compliance, and treatments that expand their available options.

The Cost and Compliance Challenge

One of the most notable findings involved affordability.

More than half of U.S. veterinarians identified cost-effective treatment options as the largest unmet need in canine allergic skin disease management. Financial considerations were also among the leading reasons owners discontinued therapies.

Some owners reported spacing out doses or modifying treatment schedules because of cost concerns, a practice that can ultimately affect treatment success and patient comfort.

Veterinarians interviewed as part of the study also noted that owner understanding of allergic skin disease can influence compliance. Because many allergic skin conditions are chronic and require long-term management, unrealistic expectations about treatment outcomes can create frustration for both clients and clinicians.

Communication Matters

Beyond medications, the survey identified communication as a major opportunity for improvement.

Veterinarians reported challenges explaining the chronic nature of allergic skin disease and setting realistic expectations for long-term management. At the same time, some pet owners said they wished they had received more information about treatment plans, disease progression, and what to expect moving forward.

The findings suggest that better communication may be just as important as better therapies when it comes to improving outcomes.

Looking Ahead

Canine allergic skin disease continues to be one of the most common and challenging conditions seen in small animal practice. While veterinarians and owners may approach treatment decisions from different perspectives, this survey found they ultimately share the same goals: reducing itch, improving quality of life, and finding treatments that are safe, effective, affordable, and easy to use.

As research continues and new therapies emerge, the study highlights an ongoing need for solutions that not only control clinical signs but also fit the realities of everyday veterinary practice and pet ownership. Read the study here: Itchy Dog Survey