A recent international study suggests that having a dog at home may help prevent eczema in children who are genetically predisposed to the condition. Researchers found that children with a specific genetic variation linked to a higher risk of eczema were less likely to develop the skin disorder if they were exposed to a dog early in life.
The study, involving data from nearly 300,000 people, explored how genetic factors interact with environmental influences during pregnancy and the first year of a child’s life. Scientists focused on 24 key genetic variants associated with eczema and examined 18 environmental factors, including pet ownership, breastfeeding, and antibiotic use.
Initial analysis of over 25,000 individuals indicated a possible link between seven environmental factors—such as dog ownership and having older siblings—and specific genetic variants related to eczema. When tested in a larger group of about 255,000 people, the strongest finding was that the increased genetic risk for eczema disappeared in children living with dogs.
This genetic variation is located near the gene for interleukin-7 receptor (IL-7R), which plays a role in immune function and inflammation. Laboratory tests showed that, in skin cells carrying this genetic variant, signals triggered by exposure to dogs actually reduced skin inflammation rather than causing an allergic reaction.
Experts say this discovery points to IL-7R as a potential target for future eczema prevention or treatment. The study also suggested a similar protective effect linked to having older siblings, though further research is needed to confirm this.
Scientists believe that early exposure to a variety of bacteria through contact with dogs and other children may help strengthen the immune system and lower eczema risk. However, the study only included people of white European descent, and researchers emphasize the need for studies involving more diverse populations to better understand how genetics and environment interact in different groups.
The research was published in the journal Allergy and involved scientists from the UK, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, the United States, Ireland, France, Sweden, Australia, Italy, and Kuwait.
Professor Sara Brown from the University of Edinburgh’s Institute of Genetics and Cancer said the findings offer new insight into why some children develop eczema and how it might be prevented. She added that while more work is needed, the study opens opportunities to reduce allergic diseases in future generations.
Dr. Marie Standl of Helmholtz Munich noted that the study highlights why environmental measures to prevent eczema may not work for everyone. She said that understanding gene-environment interactions is essential to developing personalized and effective prevention strategies.
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