Canine atopic dermatitis: what's new?

Much progress has been made in understanding canine atopic dermatitis (AD), its triggering factors, and the best approach to its diagnosis and management. This article discussess the clinical features of AD, the pitfalls of allergy testing, and how recent research developments can influence the clinical management of this condition. Of particular interest is the accumulating evidence of skin barrier dysfunction, which should prompt clinicians to consider a shift from "reactive" management, classically focused on controlling and suppressing the inflammation, to a more "proactive" management of young patients, aimed at improving skin barrier function and thus minimizing the risk of future allergic sensitization.