I recommend bathing atopic dogs at least once every two weeks with a hypoallergenic shampoo or colloidal oatmeal shampoo. Hydrocortisone shampoos may also be used. Weekly or even twice weekly shampoos may offer increased relief for some dogs. Cats, too, may be bathed. Some do not resent it as much as you think they will.
Topical solutions containing hydrocortisone offer some relief.
They are the most practical in treating localized itching. Creams or salves are often used on the feet and between the toes and sprays are used on the abdomen or other areas with less hair. These products are very poorly absorbed into the bloodstream and when used in moderation don't create long term side effects or problems associated with injectable or oral steroids. In addition cooling salves and lotions may also be used. Care must be taken with these to insure that they don't make the coat too greasy.