Lick Granuloma (Canine Acral Lick Dermatitis)

Lick granuloma, also known as canine acral lick dermatitis, is a common, chronic, and inflammatory skin condition in dogs. It is characterized by a localized area of thickened, hairless, and often ulcerated skin, which develops due to repeated licking, biting, or chewing by the dog. Lick granuloma is seen in dogs of various ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older dogs, typically between 3 and 7 years of age. The condition has a higher prevalence in certain breeds, with large breed dogs such as the Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, and Golden Retriever being more predisposed to developing the condition. Additionally, lick granulomas are more commonly found in dogs that have access to outdoor environments where they might be exposed to environmental allergens, insects, or other irritants. The recurrence rate of lick granulomas is also relatively high. Preventing and managing the condition involves a combination of behavioral therapy, environmental modifications, medical treatments and sometimes surgical intervention in severe cases.

Introduction

Lick granuloma appears as a sore spot on a dog’s skin, where the area becomes thick, bald, and often raw or ulcerated. This happens because the dog has been constantly licking, biting, or chewing at the spot, leading to irritation and damage. The repetitive licking creates a vicious cycle, causing more harm to the skin, which can make the wound even worse. It’s like the dog is stuck in a pattern of self-trauma that keeps making things worse. The condition can occur due to a variety of underlying causes such as allergies, environmental factors, parasites, infections, or behavioral issues. This condition presents both physical and emotional challenges for both the dog and the pet owner, and without intervention, it can lead to long-term health complications.

Causes of Lick Granuloma or Dermatitis in Dogs

• Environmental and food related allergies
• Bacterial, fungal or yeast infections
• Fleas, mites, or ticks can cause itching, leading to repetitive licking of affected areas
• Joint pain, arthritis, or other physical discomforts can cause dogs to lick areas for relief
• Behavioral issues such as anxiety, boredom and stress
• Dry skin or dermatitis
• Injury or trauma to the affected area
• Underlying medical conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease)
• Breed predisposition (e.g., Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds)

Symptoms of Lick Granuloma or Dermatitis in Dogs

• Thickened skin at the affected area
• Hair loss around the spot
• Redness and inflammation of the skin
• Ulceration or sores, often painful
• Pus or discharge (yellow, green, or brown)
• Bleeding from continuous licking
• Foul odor due to infection
• Swelling of the affected area
• Excessive licking, chewing, or biting of a specific area (usually paws or legs)
• Behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety or compulsive behavior

Types of Lick Granuloma or Dermatitis in Dogs

Types of lick granuloma or dermatitis in dogs include:

1. Primary Lick Granuloma – Develops as a direct result of repetitive licking, often due to behavioral issues or localized irritation.
2. Secondary Lick Granuloma – Occurs due to an underlying medical condition like allergies, infections, or injury, where the licking is a response to another problem.
3. Acute Lick Granuloma – Characterized by early-stage irritation, redness, and mild inflammation, typically seen in the initial stages of the condition.
4. Chronic Lick Granuloma – Long-standing condition where the affected area becomes thickened, ulcerated, and may have a persistent discharge, indicating ongoing irritation and damage.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and addressing the root cause of the condition. The steps of diagnosis involve:

1. Physical examination – To check affected area
2. Skin scraping for biopsy – To check for infections or other skin conditions
3. Allergy testing – To identify environmental or food allergies
4. Blood tests – To detect underlying conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease)
5. X-rays or joint exams – If pain or arthritis is suspected
6. Behavioral assessment – For anxiety or stress-related licking

Preventive steps

Preventive care can reduce the risk of lick granulomas and help manage the condition before it becomes chronic. They are as follow:

• Regular grooming
• Treat underlying health conditions
• Behavioral training
• Provide mental stimulation
• Flea and tick control
• Use protective bandages or E-collars

Management

A combined approach involving medical treatment, behavioral modifications, and environmental changes is usually the most effective for managing lick granulomas.

1. Treatment of allergies and underlying infections
2. Behavioral therapy to reduce stress and anxiety
3. Bandages to prevent licking and allow healing
4. Regular monitoring to ensure healing and prevent recurrence
5. Topical treatment
   • Corticosteroid Creams
   • Antibiotic Ointments
   • Antifungal Creams
   • Antiseptic Solutions or Sprays
   • Moisturizing Ointments
   • Barrier Creams like calamine lotion or zinc oxide
6. Oral medications
   • Antibiotics
   • Corticosteroids
   • Antifungal Medications
   • Anti-anxiety Medications
   • Pain Relievers
   • Antihistamines

Ayurvedic aspect

Ayurveda offers healing benefits for both humans and animals. For thousands of years, dating back to the vedic period, it has been used to enhance animal health through natural treatments and even surgeries. Pashu Ayurveda is a special branch of Ayurveda that focuses on taking care of animals’ health and well-being. It views animal health not just as a set of physical symptoms, but as a balance of mind, body, and spirit, much like how human ayurveda works. This approach acknowledges that taking care of animals’ health can also have a positive impact on human health, creating a harmonious relationship between the two. It emphasizes treating animals with the same care, respect, and holistic methods used for people. In Ayurveda, lick granulomas and dermatitis in dogs are viewed as imbalances in the body’s doshas (humors) that affect the skin’s health. Vata imbalances often lead to dry, itchy skin, while Pitta imbalances cause inflammation and heat, and Kapha imbalances result in excess moisture or thickened skin. Ayurveda also considers the emotional state of the animal. Anxiety, stress, and boredom are common contributors to lick granulomas in dogs. Ayurvedic management focuses on balancing these doshas using natural herbs which soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and calm the mind. Additionally, emotional factors like stress and anxiety are addressed through calming herbs. At the same time, detoxifying herbs and diet changes are used to support overall health and healing.

Ayurvedic herbs used in the management of lick granulomas and dermatitis in dogs are as follow:

1. Neem (Azadirachta indica) – Antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory.
2. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
3. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – Helps reduce stress and anxiety.
4. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) – Calms the mind and reduces anxiety.
5. Triphala (Combination of Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia bellerica) – Detoxifies and supports healing.

Herbal remedies for Lick Granuloma by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda offers a range of herbal remedies made with potent ayurvedic herbs, including Derma Vet tablets, Tick Fighter Spray, FurCoat Syrup, Inflam Vet tablets, and Nervo Vet Syrup. These products are specially crafted to support the treatment of lick granulomas and dermatitis in dogs, providing a safe and natural solution for your pet’s skin care needs. These products are made without any chemicals, artificial additives, or preservatives. At Planet Ayurveda, we focus on purity, ensuring that every formula is all natural, vegetarian, and free from any harmful ingredients.

Product description

1. Fur Coat Syrup

This syrup is an effective remedy for pets, formulated with natural ingredients such as Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Haridra (Curcuma longa) and several other herbs. These ingredients work together to support the treatment and prevention of skin and fur issues in pets, particularly helpful in managing conditions like Lick Granuloma or dermatitis in dogs. The syrup not only helps remove toxins from your pet’s body, promoting a cleaner and healthier system, but it also supports their overall well-being. By enhancing their coat, it ensures a shinier, more vibrant fur, while also contributing to better skin health.

Dosage : 10 ml, two times a day.

2. Tick Fighter Spray

This spray is a completely natural and organic herbal solution designed to control the growth of ticks, fleas, lice, and flea eggs. Made with powerful ingredients like Nirgundi (Vitex negundo), Neem (Azadirachta indica), and other beneficial herbs, this spray helps protect pets from various infections. It also promotes healthier, shinier skin, enhancing the overall appearance of your pet’s coat. In addition, it helps relieve symptoms associated with infections, such as itching, providing comfort and protection to pets suffering from skin conditions like Lick Granuloma or dermatitis.

Dosage : Spray on the affected area.

3. Derma Vet Tablet

These tablets are specially designed to help with various skin issues in pets. Packed with powerful ingredients like Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Haridra (Curcuma longa), they work to balance your pet’s body and help them relax, easing stress caused by outside factors. They’re especially helpful for treating conditions like Lick Granuloma or dermatitis in dogs. These natural ingredients work holistically, improving both their appearance and internal health, leaving them feeling more energetic and comfortable.

Dosage : 2 tablets, two times a day.

4. Inflam Vet Tablet

These tablets are created using natural herbs like Guggul (Commiphora mukul) and Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), known for their ability to support the body’s natural balance. They help calm animals, including horses, cats, and dogs, by reducing stress from environmental factors. For dogs with skin issues like Lick Granuloma or dermatitis, these tablets can help speed up healing and ease the discomfort caused by inflammation. Regular use promotes better overall health, keeping your pet more comfortable and relaxed.

Dosage : 2 tablets, two times a day.

5. Nervo Vet Syrup

This syrup is a specially crafted formula containing herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), among others. In Ayurveda, these herbs are classified as Medhya, which means they support cognitive function and mental clarity. This combination of calming, anxiety-relieving and cognitive-enhancing properties makes Nervo Vet Syrup a beneficial solution for pets suffering from emotional stress or skin conditions like Lick Granuloma or dermatitis, as it helps reduce anxiety-related behaviors.

Dosage : 10 ml, two times a day.

Conclusion

In this article we have concluded about Lick granuloma or dermatitis in dogs. We discussed its causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, preventive steps, management, ayurvedic aspect and herbal remedies by planet ayurveda. The key to effectively managing lick granulomas is figuring out what’s causing the licking, whether it’s a medical issue or behavioral, and addressing it at the source.