It may surprise you to learn that dogs can have lupus, making a diagnosis of cutaneous lupus erythematosus from your veterinarian seem pretty scary. But understanding the basics of cutaneous lupus erythematosus in dogs — especially discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) — can help you feel more prepared and empowered to care for your canine companion.

Let’s look at the different types of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, how to recognize them, and what you can do to help your dog stay happy and healthy.

What Is Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus?

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. CLE is actually a broad term used to describe four types of lupus that all affect the skin:

• Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE)
• Exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus (ECLE)
• Mucocutaneous lupus erythematosus (MCLE)
• Vesicular cutaneous lupus erythematosus (VCLE)

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is the most common type.¹ It falls into two categories: localized or generalized.

Localized Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs

• Most often seen on the face, head, neck, and hairless tip of the nose. Early signs include redness, loss of skin color, flaking and peeling skin, and itching. As the condition gets worse, you may see open wounds and changes in skin texture.
• This condition is quite common in both purebred and mixed German Shepherds, making up about 31% of all cases.²

Generalized Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs

• Usually affects the neck, back, and sides of the chest.
• Signs include discolored patches, scaling, inflamed lumps and bumps that may ooze, hair loss, and itching.
• Appears to be more common in certain breeds, including Collie, German Shepherd, German Shorthaired Pointer, and Shetland Sheepdog; however, it’s not limited to these breeds.³

Treatment for DLE in Dogs

The first-line treatment is usually topical medications to suppress the immune response and reduce inflammation, swelling, and itching.

Oral medications, such as antibiotics, vitamin supplements, and oral steroids, may also be used, especially if your dog has lesions.

Since sun exposure worsens this condition, it’s essential for your dog to avoid intense sunlight. When outdoors, your dog should wear sun protection clothing and pet-safe sunscreen.

CLE management includes lifelong use of topical and/or oral medications.

Mucocutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Mucocutaneous lupus erythematosus (MCLE) is a rare form. It causes ulcers in the soft tissue around the genitals and anus. The eyes, nose, and mouth can also be affected.

You may see red skin, shallow wounds, and deep sores. Your dog may also show signs of pain when they pee or poop.

While other breeds can be affected, MCLE is primarily found in German Shepherds and their crosses.³

Treatment for MCLE in Dogs

Treatment for MCLE involves steroids. This helps suppress the immune system so it no longer attacks healthy skin cells. Once your dog is in remission, they will stay on the lowest possible dose and frequency to manage the condition.

Other drugs can be tried if your dog doesn’t respond well to lifelong steroid use.

Vesicular Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus 

Vesicular cutaneous lupus erythematosus (VCLE) is another rare form, affecting the belly, armpits, groin, and inner thighs of dogs. In the early stages of VCLE, your dog may have red skin and small blisters. These quickly slough off, leaving dry, flaky skin and lesions that can easily get infected.

Shetland Sheepdogs, Collies, and their crosses may be more likely to have this condition.³

Ultraviolet light may be a factor since most cases start in the summer months.³

Treatment for VCLE in Dogs

VCLE treatment also includes steroids or other immunosuppressive drugs to limit the immune system’s attack on healthy cells. Antibiotics, vitamin supplements, and topical medications can also help. This condition needs lifelong management. 

Sun exposure can make it worse, so use sun protection clothing and pet-safe sunscreen.

Causes of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

In all types of CLE, the immune system attacks the skin cells because it mistakenly identifies them as foreign invaders.

The underlying cause is unknown. A combination of environmental factors (such as ultraviolet light exposure), genetics, and infections that trigger an immune response could be factors.⁵

Diagnosing Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Diagnosing any form of CLE is based on medical history, physical examination, clinical signs, and skin biopsy results.

If your veterinarian suspects CLE, they will recommend a skin biopsy. While your dog is sedated or under general anesthesia, your veterinarian will remove small samples of the affected skin to view under a microscope either in-house or by sending to a laboratory for review by a boarded veterinary pathologist.

They may also suggest:

• Complete blood count
• Chemistry panel
• Urinalysis
• Culture and sensitivity of skin lesions

Is Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Preventable?

CLE is an autoimmune condition; therefore, it can’t be prevented. You can, however, take steps to manage the condition and improve your dog’s quality of life.

• Watch for early signs so treatment can begin right away. 
• Limit sun exposure before and after diagnosis, using protective clothing designed for dogs and pet-safe sunscreen, especially if you have a breed prone to CLE.
• Follow your veterinarian’s treatment plan to the letter.
• Watch for signs of pain or discomfort and let your veterinarian know so they can help manage it.

A diagnosis of cutaneous lupus erythematosus may seem daunting. The best place to start your journey is with education. Learn the basics and have open, honest discussions with your veterinary team. By understanding the types of CLE—including discoid lupus erythematosus in dogs—and working closely with your vet, you can help your dog stay happy and healthy for years to come.