Abstract
Introduction: Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic, pruritic skin disease. Although Cannabidiol (CBD) has neuroprotective, analgesic, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory effects, few studies have examined its use in dogs with CAD. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of CBD-containing hemp oil in combination with behavior modification therapy in the treatment of CAD.
Case presentation: A 48-month-old castrated male Maltese dog with a history of Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD) and adverse food reaction presented with genital licking behaviors that began approximately two years prior to presentation. The patient had received dermatological treatment two years prior to presentation, but the licking behavior continued. During the visit, the patient was diagnosed with stereotypical genital licking. The behavior was temporarily interrupted when the dog’s owner intervened verbally but would continue shortly thereafter. A diagnosis of obsessive compulsive disorder was made and behavior modification therapy was initiated. An elimination diet was prescribed and topical steroids were administered. These treatments alleviated the pruritis in the extremities but did not alter the frequency of genital licking. Therefore, Cannabidiol (CBD) was administered for 21 days after the initiation of the behavior modification therapy. Twenty-seven days later, the genital licking behavior decreased and could be stopped via verbal intervention from the dog’s owner.
Conclusion: In this patient, the stereotypical behavior was treated with CBD. Factors that contribute to stereotypic behavior are frustration and conflict. It is likely that the behavior began due to lack of care and unsatisfied motor drive. To date, potential efficacy has been reported in human dermatology; however, there have been no reports of CBD being used to treat CAD in dogs. These results highlight the importance of careful medical evaluations and treatment of a primary illness even when behavioral issues are prominent, as well as the potential use of CBD to treat stereotypical behaviors.