A healthy, lustrous coat is not only aesthetically pleasing but also an indicator of a dog’s overall well-being.
When dogs start to lose fur, owners often either try home remedies or bathe the dog, however, hair loss can be a sign of serious medical issues, so early vet visits can help resolve the issue faster.
Before we get into the details, let’s first understand the difference between normal and abnormal hair loss.
Normal shedding vs. Alopecia
Dogs naturally shed their hair, especially during seasonal changes and this is a normal process. Sometimes shedding can be followed by scratching or rolling in the grass, but excessive hair loss could indicate an underlying issue.
Pay close attention to areas where hair loss is most prominent, such as the tail, paws, abdomen, or around the ears.
Other signs that may accompany abnormal hair loss, include:
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Scabs
- Changes in your dog’s behavior or appetite
Dog Losing Hair: Table of Contents
1. Pressure sores
Pressure sores, also known as decubitus ulcers or bedsores typically develop in areas where the dog’s skin and underlying tissues are compressed between a bony prominence (such as elbows, hips, or hocks) and a hard surface (such as the floor or a poorly fitting bed).
When constant pressure is applied to an area over an extended period, it restricts blood flow to that region, leading to tissue damage.
The lack of adequate blood supply can cause the skin cells to become deprived of oxygen and nutrients, leading to cell death and subsequent hair loss.
In cases of severe pressure sores, the skin may break down, forming open wounds or ulcers. As the affected area undergoes healing, the regrowth of hair can be delayed or compromised, resulting in hair loss in those specific areas.
Pressure sores can be exacerbated by other factors such as friction, moisture, or bacterial infections.
To prevent pressure sores provide supportive bedding surfaces, enough space for dog to easily reposition, and treat the pressure source as soon as you notice they are beginning to develop.
2. Friction
Friction can cause hair loss in dogs when there is repeated rubbing or irritation against the skin, typically from contact with certain objects or surfaces. The continuous friction can lead to damage and breakage of the hair shafts, resulting in hair loss over time.
A common example of friction-induced hair loss in dogs is when a collar is too tight or poorly fitted.
The constant rubbing and pressure of the collar against the neck can cause irritation and abrasion, leading to hair breakage and eventual hair loss in that area.
Similarly, tight-fitting harnesses or clothing can also cause friction-related hair loss in specific regions of the body where they come into contact with the skin.
The self-inflicted trauma (when dogs excessively scratch, lick, or chew at certain areas of their body) creates friction between the dog’s teeth or nails and the skin, leading to hair breakage and hair loss.
3. Trauma and/or scarring
When a dog experiences physical trauma or sustains an injury, such as cuts, burns, or deep wounds, it can result in hair loss in the affected area.
Here are a few ways in which trauma or scarring can lead to hair loss in dogs:
Disruption of Hair Follicles: Severe trauma or deep wounds can damage the hair follicles responsible for producing and maintaining hair growth. When these follicles are damaged, it can impair the normal hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss.
Scar Tissue Formation: As the body heals from an injury or trauma, it may produce scar tissue. Scar tissue is different from normal skin and hair follicles, as it lacks the ability to regenerate hair. If the trauma results in significant scarring, the hair follicles in that area may be permanently damaged, leading to permanent hair loss.
4. Post-surgical clipping
Post-surgical clipping refers to the process of shaving the fur in a specific area of a dog’s body as part of a surgical procedure.
While it may seem counterintuitive, hair loss can occur as a result of post-surgical clipping due to:
Clipper Irritation: The process of using clippers to remove the fur can cause mild irritation to the skin. This irritation can lead to temporary inflammation, redness, and itching, which may prompt the dog to scratch or lick the area. Excessive scratching or licking can contribute to hair breakage and subsequent hair loss.
Clipper Burn: If clippers are used for an extended period or pressed too firmly against the skin, it can generate heat and cause clipper burn. Clipper burn is a form of thermal injury that can damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss in the clipped area.
Stress-Related Hair Loss: Surgical procedures can be stressful for dogs, and stress can contribute to temporary hair loss.
The stress of the surgery, coupled with the discomfort and unfamiliar sensations of post-surgical clipping, can trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium.
Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss where the hair prematurely enters the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, resulting in increased shedding.
Hair loss due to post-surgical clipping is often temporary. As the skin and hair follicles recover from the procedure and any associated irritation or inflammation subsides, hair regrowth typically occurs naturally.
To minimize hair loss after post-surgical clipping, veterinarians and their team take precautions to ensure proper shaving techniques, use sharp blades, and prevent clipper burn. They may also provide post-operative care instructions, such as discouraging excessive scratching or licking through the use of Elizabethan collars or other protective measures.
5. Bacterial, yeast, or fungal infections
Bacterial Infections:
Bacterial infections occur when harmful bacteria invade the dog’s skin. The presence of bacteria can trigger an inflammatory response in the skin, leading to redness, swelling, and itching.
The dog may scratch or bite at the affected area, causing hair breakage and loss. Bacteria can directly damage the hair follicles, inhibiting hair growth and resulting in hair loss.
Yeast Infections:
Yeast infections, typically caused by an overgrowth of the Malassezia species, are common in dogs.
Yeast naturally resides on the skin, but when there is an imbalance or favorable conditions, such as warm and moist environments, it can proliferate and cause infection.
Yeast infections often lead to intense itching, redness, and flaking of the skin, which can result in the dog scratching or biting at the area. This mechanical trauma can lead to hair loss, especially in severe or chronic cases.
Fungal Infections:
The fungi invade the hair shafts and cause them to weaken and break, leading to hair loss in the affected areas.
The infection disrupts the normal balance of the skin and can compromise the health of the hair follicles. As a result, the hair growth cycle can be interrupted, leading to hair loss. It’s important to note that hair loss is often a secondary symptom of the underlying infection and is typically accompanied by other signs such as redness, itching, or skin lesions.
6. Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection and despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but by various species of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi invade the outer layers of the skin, hair, and occasionally the nails, leading to characteristic symptoms, including hair loss.
Here’s how ringworm leads to hair loss in dogs:
Fungal Invasion: When a dog becomes infected with ringworm, the fungi invade the hair shafts and follicles. The presence of the fungi triggers an immune response in the dog’s body, leading to inflammation in the affected areas. This inflammatory response can damage the hair follicles, disrupting their normal function and inhibiting hair growth.
Hair Shaft Weakening: The dermatophytes produce enzymes that weaken the structure of the hair shafts. As a result, the hair becomes brittle, prone to breakage, and more likely to fall out.
The weakened hair shafts may break off at or close to the skin surface, resulting in patches of hair loss.
Fungal Spore Formation: Along with invading the hair shafts, the dermatophytes also produce reproductive structures called spores. These spores can spread throughout the dog’s coat, environment, and other animals, contributing to the infection’s persistence and transmission.
The spores can cause further hair loss as they accumulate within the hair follicles, leading to blockage and subsequent hair breakage.
Self-Inflicted Trauma: The itching and discomfort associated with ringworm can cause a dog to scratch, lick, or chew at the affected areas. Excessive scratching or grooming can further damage the hair follicles and contribute to hair loss.
The self-inflicted trauma can also spread the fungal spores to other parts of the body, resulting in additional areas of hair loss.
Hair loss in ringworm infections is typically characterized by circular or irregular patches of hair loss with red and scaly borders. The affected skin may appear inflamed, and hair loss can be accompanied by itching or discomfort.
7. Mites (Mange)
Mange is a term used to describe a group of skin conditions caused by different types of mites that infest a dog’s skin and hair follicles.
These mites can cause various forms of mange, including sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange, both of which can result in hair loss.
Demodex mites: There are two main types of Demodex mites that affect dogs:
- Demodex canis
- Sarcoptes scabiei
Demodex mites cause a skin condition known as demodicosis or demodectic mange, while Sarcoptes mites cause scabies or sarcoptic mange.
When it comes to Demodex mites, they usually live harmoniously with a dog’s immune system.
However, problems arise when a dog has an immature or weakened immune system, allowing the mite population to multiply rapidly.
In cases of demodicosis, dogs may exhibit different signs depending on the severity and type of infestation. The most common symptoms include:
- small patches of hair loss
- inflammation and redness of the skin
- oily skin
- skin crusting
- swelling of the paws
- dogs may rub their face or head frequently
For localized demodicosis, only one small area or multiple small patches of hair loss may be observed. In generalized demodicosis, which is a more serious condition, extensive hair loss, scabs, sores, and even secondary infections may occur.
It’s important to note that not all dogs infested with Demodex mites will show signs of itching or discomfort.
In some cases, their skin may appear normal, or there may be minimal swelling, redness, and crustiness.
Here’s how mites contribute to hair loss in dogs:
Mite Infestation: Mites are microscopic parasites that burrow into the dog’s skin, feeding on skin cells and oils. As the mites multiply and spread, they cause irritation, inflammation, and damage to the skin and hair follicles. This infestation disrupts the normal hair growth cycle and leads to hair loss in affected areas.
Intense Itching: Mite infestations typically cause severe itching in dogs, leading to intense scratching, biting, and licking. The constant scratching and self-trauma can result in hair breakage, damage to the hair follicles, and subsequent hair loss. The dog’s attempts to relieve the itching can further exacerbate the condition and contribute to the spread of mites to other parts of the body.
Inflammatory Response: Mites provoke an immune response in the dog’s body, triggering inflammation in the skin. This inflammation can affect the hair follicles, impairing their ability to produce and maintain healthy hair growth. Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to persistent hair loss in the affected areas.
Secondary Infections: Mite infestations can weaken the dog’s skin barrier, making it more susceptible to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. These secondary infections can further damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss as a result of the combined effects of the mite infestation and the accompanying infections.
Mange caused by mite infestations often presents with hair loss, redness, crusting, scaling, and thickening of the skin. The severity and extent of hair loss can vary depending on the specific type of mite and the dog’s individual immune response.
8. Flea allergies
Flea allergies can contribute to hair loss in dogs through a specific allergic reaction known as flea allergy dermatitis (FAD).
When a dog is allergic to fleas, even a single flea bite can trigger an intense immune response, leading to a range of symptoms, including hair loss. Here’s how flea allergies can result in hair loss in dogs:
Allergic Reaction: Dogs with flea allergies are hypersensitive to flea saliva. When a flea bites the dog, it injects its saliva into the skin to prevent blood clotting. The allergenic proteins present in the flea saliva trigger an allergic reaction in the dog’s immune system. This immune response causes inflammation, itching, and irritation in the affected areas.
Excessive Scratching: The intense itching caused by flea allergy dermatitis compels dogs to scratch, bite, or lick at the affected areas. Excessive scratching can lead to hair breakage and loss. The dog’s relentless scratching further damages the skin and hair follicles, exacerbating hair loss.
Self-Inflicted Trauma: In response to allergic itching, dogs may engage in excessive grooming, particularly in areas where fleas are present or where they experience the most discomfort.
Excessive grooming can lead to further hair loss, as the dog may lick or chew at the fur, causing hair breakage and damage to the hair follicles.
Secondary Infections: The constant scratching and self-trauma associated with flea allergies can create open sores or wounds on the skin, making it vulnerable to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. These infections can worsen the inflammation, irritation, and hair loss in affected areas.
Flea allergy dermatitis often leads to hair loss in specific regions where fleas are commonly found or where the dog’s scratching and grooming behavior is concentrated. The hair loss may occur primarily on the back near the tail base, the hindquarters, the abdomen, and the inner thighs.
Treating flea allergies in dogs involves not only eliminating fleas from the dog and its environment but also managing the allergic response. This may include the use of flea control products, such as topical treatments or oral medications, to kill and prevent fleas.
Vet may recommend anti-inflammatory medications or other treatments to alleviate itching and reduce the allergic response. Treating any secondary infections is also important to facilitate healing and promote hair regrowth.
9. Food allergies
Food allergies can contribute to hair loss in dogs through an immune response that triggers a condition known as food allergy dermatitis.
Food allergies in dogs are typically related to proteins, which can come from both animal and plant-based ingredients in their diet.
Here are some common allergic foods for dogs:
- Beef
- Dairy
- Wheat
- Egg
- Chicken
- Lamb/Mutton
- Soy
When a dog develops an allergy to certain ingredients in their food, it can lead to various skin reactions, including hair loss.
Here’s how food allergies can result in hair loss in dogs:
Allergic Reaction: In dogs with food allergies, their immune system reacts negatively to specific proteins or other components in their food. When the dog ingests these allergens, it triggers an immune response, leading to the release of histamines and other inflammatory substances. This immune response can cause inflammation in the skin, leading to itching, redness, and irritation.
Excessive Scratching and Biting: The itching caused by food allergies can be intense, prompting the dog to scratch, bite, or lick at the affected areas. The constant scratching and self-trauma can result in hair breakage and hair loss. Persistent scratching can further damage the skin and hair follicles, exacerbating hair loss.
Skin Inflammation: Food allergies can lead to chronic inflammation in the skin, affecting the hair follicles’ ability to produce and maintain healthy hair growth. Prolonged inflammation can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss in the affected areas.
Secondary Infections: The continuous scratching and self-inflicted trauma caused by food allergies can create open sores or wounds on the skin, making it susceptible to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. These infections can worsen the inflammation, irritation, and hair loss in the affected areas.
Hair loss associated with food allergies is often patchy and can occur in various parts of the body, including the face, ears, paws, and belly.
Other symptoms of food allergies may include:
- gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea,
- ear infections
- recurrent skin infections
To address food allergies and alleviate hair loss, it’s crucial to identify and eliminate the specific food allergens from the dog’s diet. This is typically done through an elimination diet or a food trial under the guidance of a veterinarian.
The veterinarian may recommend a hypoallergenic or novel protein diet to determine which ingredients are triggering the allergic reaction.
Once the allergenic food is identified and eliminated, the dog’s symptoms, including hair loss, should improve over time as the inflammation subsides and the skin heals.
Specially designed dog foods are available in pet stores.
10. Environmental allergies
Environmental allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis or environmental allergy dermatitis are caused by hypersensitivity reactions to various environmental triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, molds, or certain chemicals.
Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, reddened areas of the skin that can be very itchy for dogs. Hives occur as a result of an allergic reaction where the immune system overreacts to an allergen. Hives can appear and disappear quickly, and they are a sign of an allergic response in dogs.
When dogs with environmental allergies are exposed to these allergens, it can result in a range of symptoms, including hair loss.
Here’s how environmental allergies can lead to hair loss in dogs:
Allergic Reaction: Dogs with environmental allergies have an overactive immune system that reacts to harmless substances in the environment. When the dog comes into contact with the allergens, it triggers an immune response, leading to the release of histamines and other inflammatory substances. This immune response causes itching, inflammation, and irritation in the skin.
Excessive Scratching and Biting: The itching caused by environmental allergies can be intense and persistent. Dogs will often scratch, bite, or lick at the affected areas in an attempt to relieve the itching sensation. The constant scratching and self-trauma can lead to hair breakage, damage to the hair follicles, and subsequent hair loss.
Inflammatory Response: Environmental allergies can cause chronic inflammation in the skin. The prolonged inflammation can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss. The affected areas may become red, swollen, and irritated, with hair loss occurring in patches or diffuse patterns.
Secondary Infections: The continuous scratching and self-inflicted trauma caused by environmental allergies can create breaks in the skin, making it more vulnerable to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. These infections can worsen the inflammation, itching, and hair loss in the affected areas.
Hair loss associated with environmental allergies often occurs in specific regions of the body, such as the paws, groin, armpits, face, or ears.
It may present as patchy hair loss or generalized thinning of the coat.
Other symptoms of environmental allergies can include:
- Redness
- Flaking
- Skin lesions
- Recurrent ear infections
To address environmental allergies and alleviate hair loss, it’s important to identify and minimize the dog’s exposure to the specific allergens causing the reaction.
This may involve environmental management strategies, such as regular bathing to remove allergens from the skin and coat, using air purifiers or allergen-proof covers for bedding, and minimizing outdoor exposure during high pollen seasons.
Veterinarians may prescribe medications or recommend immunotherapy (allergy shots) or supplements to help manage the immune response and reduce the symptoms, including hair loss.
11. Contact allergies
Contact allergies, also known as allergic contact dermatitis occur when a dog’s skin comes into direct contact with a particular substance or material to which they are hypersensitive.
Here’s how contact allergies can result in hair loss in dogs:
Allergic Reaction: Dogs with contact allergies develop an immune response when their skin comes into contact with specific allergens. These allergens can include substances such as certain plants, cleaning products, fabrics, rubber, or chemicals found in grooming products. The immune system identifies these substances as harmful and triggers an inflammatory response in the skin.
Skin Irritation: When a dog’s skin is exposed to an allergen, it can cause irritation, redness, swelling, and itching. The affected areas may become inflamed, leading to discomfort and a strong urge to scratch or bite at the irritated skin. Continuous scratching and self-trauma can result in hair loss.
Hair Breakage: Intense scratching, rubbing, or biting at the affected areas can cause hair breakage and damage to the hair follicles. The constant mechanical trauma weakens the hair shafts, leading to hair loss. Additionally, the dog’s nails or teeth may damage the hair during their scratching or grooming behaviors.
Secondary Infections: The continuous scratching and self-inflicted trauma caused by contact allergies can create breaks in the skin, making it more susceptible to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. These infections can further worsen the inflammation, itching, and hair loss in the affected areas.
Contact allergies often cause localized hair loss in the specific areas where the allergen comes into contact with the dog’s skin. It may present as patchy hair loss or thinning of the coat, typically in the areas most exposed to the allergen.
To address contact allergies and alleviate hair loss, it’s important to identify and eliminate the specific allergen or irritant causing the reaction.
This may involve avoiding contact with certain plants, changing grooming products or cleaning agents, or using protective measures, such as clothing or barriers, to prevent direct skin contact.
Veterinarians may also prescribe medications, such as antihistamines or topical treatments, to manage inflammation and itching.
12. Abnormality in the growth of the hair shaft
An abnormality in the growth of the hair shaft refers to the visible part of the hair that extends from the hair follicle to the skin’s surface.
When there is a disruption or abnormality in the growth process of the hair shaft, it can lead to various hair-related issues, including hair loss.
Here’s how abnormalities in the hair shaft can result in hair loss in dogs:
Structural Defects: The hair shaft may have structural defects due to genetic factors or underlying health conditions. These defects can weaken the hair, making it more prone to breakage or premature shedding. The weakened hair shafts may fall out easily, leading to hair loss in affected areas.
Follicular Dysplasia: Follicular dysplasia is a condition where the hair follicles develop abnormally, leading to changes in hair growth and hair shaft structure.
There are two types of follicular dysplasia: primary and secondary.
In primary follicular dysplasia, the hair shafts are abnormal from the beginning, while in secondary follicular dysplasia, the hair shafts become abnormal over time due to nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.
Color Dilution Alopecia: Some dog breeds with diluted coat colors, such as blue or fawn, may be prone to color dilution alopecia. This condition is characterized by abnormal hair shafts that are more fragile and prone to breakage. As a result, affected dogs may experience patchy hair loss or thinning in areas where the diluted color is present.
Hair Shaft Infections: In certain cases, bacteria or fungi can infect the hair shaft, leading to hair loss. These infections can weaken the hair shaft and cause it to break or fall out. Common examples include bacterial folliculitis or ringworm (fungal infection) affecting the hair shaft.
Hair loss resulting from abnormalities in the hair shaft can manifest in different patterns and locations, depending on the underlying cause. It may appear as patchy hair loss, thinning of the coat, or generalized hair loss across the body.
Diagnosing and managing hair loss caused by abnormal hair shaft growth requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian or veterinary dermatologist.
They may perform diagnostic tests, such as skin scrapings, hair plucks, or skin biopsies, to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment options may vary depending on the specific condition and can include dietary adjustments, supplements, medicated shampoos, topical treatments, or other medications prescribed to address any associated infections or underlying health issues.
13. Thyroid disorder
A thyroid disorder, specifically hypothyroidism occurs when thyroid gland is not functioning properly.
Here’s how thyroid disorder can result in hair loss in dogs:
Hormonal Imbalance: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4). Thyroxine is involved in regulating metabolism, including the growth and development of hair follicles. A deficiency of thyroid hormones can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to abnormal shedding and hair loss.
Telogen Effluvium: In dogs with hypothyroidism, the hair follicles can prematurely enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, known as the telogen phase. This condition is called telogen effluvium. When hair follicles are in the telogen phase, the hair shaft becomes weak and is more likely to fall out. As a result, dogs with hypothyroidism may experience excessive shedding and hair loss.
Poor Hair Regrowth: Thyroid disorder can affect the dog’s ability to regrow hair effectively. The new hair that grows may be thin, brittle, or slow to regrow. This can result in a patchy or thinning coat appearance.
Changes in Hair Texture: Hypothyroidism can cause changes in the texture and quality of the dog’s hair. The hair may become dry, coarse, or brittle, making it more prone to breakage and hair loss.
Hair loss associated with thyroid disorder is often symmetrical and generalized, affecting the dog’s trunk, tail, and hindquarters. Other clinical signs of hypothyroidism may include weight gain, lethargy, intolerance to cold, skin dryness, and changes in appetite.
Vets will perform blood tests to evaluate the dog’s thyroid hormone levels and make a definitive diagnosis.
Treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy, administered orally, to restore hormonal balance. With appropriate treatment, the dog’s hair loss should gradually improve, and new hair growth will occur over time.
14. Cushing’s disease
Cushing’s disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism occurs when the body produces excessive levels of cortisol, a steroid hormone that plays a role in regulating various bodily functions.
When cortisol levels are elevated, it can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss.
Here’s how Cushing’s disease can result in hair loss in dogs:
Hormonal Imbalance: Cushing’s disease can develop due to the overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands or, in some cases, excessive administration of corticosteroid medications. Elevated cortisol levels can affect the dog’s metabolism, immune system, and tissues, including the hair follicles. This hormonal imbalance can lead to hair loss.
Altered Hair Growth Cycle: Cortisol can interfere with the normal hair growth cycle, which consists of anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting and shedding) phases. In Cushing’s disease, the hair follicles may spend less time in the growth phase and more time in the resting phase. This disruption can result in hair thinning, patchy hair loss, or overall coat deterioration.
Fragile Hair Shaft: High cortisol levels can weaken the hair shaft, making it more prone to breakage and hair loss. The weakened hair shafts may fall out easily during grooming, leading to noticeable hair loss in affected areas.
Skin Changes: Cushing’s disease can cause changes in the dog’s skin, including thinning, increased fragility, and reduced elasticity. These skin changes can contribute to hair loss as the hair follicles are not properly supported by the surrounding skin tissues.
Hair loss associated with Cushing’s disease is often symmetrical and can occur on the dog’s trunk, back, and tail.
Other clinical signs of Cushing’s disease may include increased thirst and urination, weight gain, muscle weakness, abdominal enlargement, and susceptibility to skin infections.
Vet will perform diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and imaging studies, to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause of the disease.
Treatment for Cushing’s disease may involve medication, surgery, or management of underlying conditions if they are contributing to the disease. With appropriate treatment, the dog’s hair loss can improve, and the coat may regrow over time.
15. Sex hormone imbalance
Sex hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including hair growth and maintenance.
Here’s how sex hormone imbalance can result in hair loss in dogs:
Estrogen Imbalance: In female dogs, a decrease in estrogen levels can occur during certain stages of their reproductive cycle, such as after giving birth or during the transition to older age. Estrogen is involved in maintaining the hair follicles’ health and promoting hair growth. A decline in estrogen can lead to hair thinning, loss of hair pigmentation, and overall coat deterioration.
Testosterone Imbalance: In male dogs, an increase or decrease in testosterone levels can affect hair growth. Excessive testosterone levels, often associated with testicular or adrenal gland disorders, can lead to hair loss and thinning. Conversely, a decrease in testosterone, such as after neutering, can also contribute to hair loss in some cases.
Hormone-Responsive Alopecia: Certain dog breeds, such as Boxers and Bulldogs, are prone to a condition known as hormone-responsive alopecia. This condition is believed to be influenced by sex hormone imbalances. Hormone-responsive alopecia is characterized by symmetrical hair loss, usually starting in the genital area and spreading to other parts of the body. The hair loss may be accompanied by changes in the skin, such as follicular papules or comedones.
Alopecia X: Alopecia X, also known as black skin disease or adrenal sex hormone imbalance, is a condition where dogs experience gradual hair loss, usually starting from the back and tail region. The exact cause of Alopecia X is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve hormonal imbalances, including sex hormones. This condition is more commonly seen in certain breeds, such as Pomeranians, Chow Chows, and Alaskan Malamutes.
Hair loss associated with sex hormone imbalance can vary in pattern and location, depending on the underlying cause and the affected dog’s breed. It may appear as patchy hair loss, thinning of the coat, or overall coat deterioration.
Treatment options may involve hormone replacement therapy, medications to manage related conditions, or other targeted interventions to address the specific hormone imbalance.
16. Skin cancer
Skin cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the skin, and it can occur in different forms, such as melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or mast cell tumors.
When skin cancer develops, it can directly impact the hair follicles and surrounding tissues, resulting in hair loss.
Here’s how skin cancer can contribute to hair loss in dogs:
Destruction of Hair Follicles: Skin cancer can invade and destroy the hair follicles, which are responsible for producing and supporting hair growth. As the cancer cells grow and spread, they can disrupt the normal functioning of the hair follicles, leading to hair loss in the affected areas.
Ulceration and Tissue Damage: In some cases, skin cancer can cause ulceration and tissue damage. As the cancerous lesions progress, they can erode the skin’s surface, leading to open sores and loss of hair in the affected regions.
Surgical Interventions: Treating skin cancer in dogs often involves surgical interventions, such as tumor excision or Mohs surgery. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, surgical removal may require wide excision, which can involve removing a significant portion of the surrounding skin. This surgical removal of cancerous tissue can result in hair loss in the surgical site.
Radiation Therapy: In cases where surgical removal is not possible or complete, radiation therapy may be employed to target and destroy cancer cells. While effective in treating cancer, radiation therapy can cause damage to the hair follicles in the treated area, leading to hair loss.
The extent and pattern of hair loss associated with skin cancer can vary depending on the specific type of cancer, its location, and the stage of the disease. It may manifest as localized bald patches, thinning of the coat, or overall hair loss in the affected region.
If you suspect that your dog has skin cancer or notice hair loss along with suspicious skin lesions, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly. A veterinarian will perform a thorough examination, possibly including a biopsy or other diagnostic tests, to confirm the presence of skin cancer and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment options for skin cancer in dogs may include surgical removal of tumors, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. The goal is to control or eradicate the cancer while preserving the best possible quality of life for the dog.
17. Vesiculopustular dermatoses
Vesiculopustular dermatoses in dogs refer to a group of skin conditions characterized by the presence of vesicles (small fluid-filled blisters) and pustules (small pus-filled blisters) on the outer layer of the skin (epidermis).
These blisters can be filled with clear serum or pus.
Vesiculopustular dermatoses can manifest in different types and may be confined to specific areas of the body, such as the head, feet, or junction between different skin areas.
Hair Loss in Vesiculopustular Dermatoses:
The presence of vesicles and pustules can cause inflammation, redness, and subsequent hair loss in the affected areas.
The underlying mechanisms leading to hair loss in these conditions may involve the disruption of hair follicles due to the inflammatory response and the formation of blisters on the skin
It’s important to note that vesiculopustular dermatoses can have various causes, including infectious agents, immune system dysfunction, and underlying medical conditions.
18. Genetics and Breed Predispositions for hair loss
Some breeds of dogs are more susceptible to hair loss than others.
For example, breeds such as the Chinese Crested, Chihuahua, and Dachshund are prone to losing hair as they age.
This is often just a part of their genetic makeup and not something that can be easily reversed.
19. Stress and Anxiety
Dogs can experience stress and anxiety in much the same way that humans can.
When dogs are stressed, they can start to excessively lick, bite, or scratch themselves, leading to hair loss.
This behavior can often accompany major life changes in dogs, such as moving homes, experiencing changes in the family structure, or being separated from their owners for extended periods.
20. Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to hair loss in dogs, particularly deficiencies in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It’s important to feed your dog a well-balanced diet that meets all of their nutritional needs in order to maintain a healthy coat and prevent hair loss.
Alopecia in dogs
Alopecia refers to abnormal hair loss or baldness on areas that are typically hairy.
Causes of Alopecia:
Alopecia in dogs can be caused by genetics, allergies, skin infections, parasites (such as fleas or mange mites), overgrooming, lack of protein in the diet, and contact irritation from collars or other objects rubbing against the skin.
Certain dog breeds may also be more prone to alopecia, such as Mexican Hairless, Chinese Crested, Bulldogs, Dobermans, Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, Greyhounds, Siberian Huskies, and Pomeranians.
Types of Alopecia:
Canine Pattern Baldness: This is a genetic condition that primarily affects certain breeds and causes symmetrical hair loss on the flanks and hindquarters.
Contact Alopecia: Contact alopecia occurs when something rubs against the dog’s skin and causes hair loss in specific areas, such as the neck (from wearing a collar) or the elbows (from lying on hard surfaces).
Atopy-Related Alopecia: Dogs with allergies, particularly atopic dermatitis, may experience hair loss as a result of their immune system’s response to allergens.
Infectious or Parasitic Causes: Infections, parasites (like fleas or mites), and skin diseases can lead to alopecia in dogs.
Hormonal or Endocrine Disorders: Conditions like Cushing’s disease or hypothyroidism can cause hormonal imbalances and subsequent hair loss in dogs.
Traumatic Alopecia: Excessive grooming, scratching, or self-trauma can result in localized hair loss.
Autoimmune Alopecia: In some cases, the immune system may attack the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
Hair Growth Cycle
Similar to humans, a dog’s hair growth cycle consists of three phases:
- anagen
- catagen
- telogen
The anagen phase is the active growth phase, during which the hair follicles produce new hair. This phase typically lasts for a few months or longer, depending on the breed and individual dog.
The catagen phase is a transitional stage where hair growth slows down, and the follicle prepares for shedding.
The telogen phase is the resting phase, where the hair follicle remains inactive before eventually shedding and allowing new hair to grow in its place.
Signs and Symptoms of Hair Loss in Dogs
Bald Patches
Bald patches can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, tail, legs, and ears. These patches can be circular or irregular in shape and can vary in size.
In some cases, the skin in the bald patches may appear normal, while in others, it may be red, scaly, or flaky.
Excessive Shedding
While shedding is a normal occurrence in dogs, excessive shedding can lead to thinning of the coat and eventually, bald patches.
Skin Irritation and Inflammation
Skin irritation and inflammation often accompany hair loss in dogs. This is because the skin can become dry, flaky, or even infected, leading to hair loss in the area.
Your dog may start to scratch, bite, or lick in these areas where the skin is irritated. This can lead to further irritation and even secondary infections..
Changes in Skin Color or Texture
Hair loss can also cause changes in skin color or texture in dogs. For example, the skin may become darker or thicker due to constant scratching and biting.
In some cases, the skin may become lighter or thinner due to the loss of hair and exposure to the sun. These changes in skin color or texture can be a sign of an underlying health condition and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Diagnosing the Cause of Hair Loss
Diagnosing the cause of hair loss in dogs can be a tricky process and may require multiple tests and procedures. Here are some of the most common methods veterinarians use to diagnose the underlying causes of hair loss in dogs:
Veterinary Consultation
The first step in diagnosing hair loss in dogs is to schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Your vet can examine your dog, take a medical history, and perform additional tests to help determine the cause of the hair loss.
Skin Scraping Test
A skin scraping test is a common method of diagnosing skin infestations, such as mites. Your vet will use a scalpel or blade to scrape the skin surface and examine the cells under a microscope to look for signs of parasites.
Blood Tests
Blood tests can help identify underlying health issues that could be contributing to hair loss. Your vet will look for signs of hormonal imbalances, infectious diseases, and other conditions.
Allergy Testing
Allergy testing can help determine whether your dog is allergic to specific foods, pollen, or other substances. This can help identify the root cause of hair loss and help provide effective treatment plans to alleviate the symptoms.
Treatment for hair loss in dogs
The treatment for hair loss in dogs depends on the underlying cause identified through diagnosis. Addressing the root cause is crucial for effective management.
Treatment options include:
Addressing Underlying Health Conditions
If the hair loss is a result of an underlying health condition, such as hormonal imbalances or infections, targeted treatment will focus on managing and resolving that specific condition. This may involve medications, hormonal therapy, or antibiotics, depending on the diagnosis.
Nutritional Supplements
In cases where hair loss is due to nutritional deficiencies, the veterinarian may recommend specific dietary changes and supplements to ensure the dog receives adequate nutrients for a healthy coat.
These supplements may include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, or minerals to promote hair growth and overall coat health.
Topical Treatments
Depending on the underlying cause, topical treatments may be prescribed to address specific skin conditions or infections.
These treatments can include medicated shampoos, creams, or ointments that help alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
Medications
In certain cases, the veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage underlying conditions or symptoms associated with hair loss.
This may include antihistamines for allergies, anti-inflammatory drugs for skin inflammation, or specific medications to address hormonal imbalances.
Lifestyle Changes
Along with medical interventions, making appropriate lifestyle changes can contribute to the management of hair loss.
This may involve implementing regular grooming practices, including brushing to remove loose hair, keeping the coat clean and free from mats or tangles, and avoiding excessive bathing or harsh grooming products that can further irritate the skin.
Home Care and Prevention
To support the treatment and prevent future episodes of hair loss in dogs, there are several steps you can take at home:
Regular Grooming Practices
Regular brushing stimulates blood circulation to the skin, removes loose hair, and promotes a healthy coat. Use grooming tools suitable for your dog’s coat type and be gentle to avoid causing further irritation or discomfort.
Balanced Diet and Proper Nutrition
Ensure your dog is on a balanced and nutritious diet that meets their specific needs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s overall health and coat condition. Nutritional supplements, as recommended by the veterinarian, can also support coat health.
Environmental Management
If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, minimize their exposure to known allergens or irritants. Keep the environment clean by regular vacuuming, and washing bedding.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Schedule routine check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s overall health and identify any early signs of hair loss or other issues. Regular check-ups allow for timely intervention and proactive management.
Remember, each dog is unique, and the treatment approach may vary depending on their specific condition.
Dog losing hair: Vet Q+A
Q: Why is my dog losing hair on tail?
A: The dog may be losing hair on the tail due to: Flea Allergy Dermatitis, Parasitic Infestations, Hormonal Imbalances
Q: Why is my dog losing hair around eyes?
A: Dog may lose hair around the eyes due to Allergies, Demodicosis, Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye), and Eye or Eyelid Problems.
Q: Why is my dog losing hair in patches?
A: Here are conditions that cause hair loss in patches: Demodex Skin Mites, Ringworm, Infections or Mites, Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)
Q: Why is my dog losing hair on back?
A: Common causes of hair loss on the back in dogs include: Shedding, Allergies, Parasites, Infections caused by bacteria or fungi, Hormonal issues, etc.
Q: Why is my old dog losing hair?
A: Older dogs are suspectable to more serious health conditions that can cause hair loss. Here are some causes: Alopecia, Aging and Seasonal Shedding, hormonal disorders like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, skin infections, allergies, parasites (such as mange mites), or other systemic illnesses.
Q: Why is my dog losing hair on ears?
A: Comom causes of hair loss around ears in dogs include: Infection or Infestation, Pinnal alopecia is a condition characterized by gradual or sudden thinning of hair on the ears, resulting in baldness, Allergies, Breed Predisposition, etc.
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