Hair loss in dogs can be a symptom of several health issues. These can range from dermatological problems to hormonal disorders. For owners, seeing their pet lose its hair is a stressful situation. Understanding the causes of this phenomenon is essential to taking the appropriate measures to help your dog. What should I do when my dog is losing its hair? We've got all the information you need here.
Causes of Hair Loss in Dogs
Hair loss in dogs can have several causes, each of which can lead to more serious health problems. Many factors come into play for each cause and help explain why a dog is losing its hair.
Parasitic diseases
Parasitic diseases cause various health problems for dogs, including hair loss. External parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites can cause itching and skin irritation. This can result in hair loss. In addition, internal parasites such as intestinal worms can also cause hair loss.
Fleas are among the most common parasites in dogs and they feed on blood. If a flea infestation is not treated quickly, it can affect the dog, causing it to shed a lot of hair. There are simple methods for how to get rid of fleas on a dog . Ticks, on the other hand, sometimes transmit serious diseases to your dog, such as Lyme disease. This bacterial disease causes fever, joint pain, and hair loss. With a tick comb or tick tweezers , you can keep these parasites away and ensure the well-being of your companion.
Mites can also be a cause of dog hair loss . They live in the animal's fur to feed on keratin, the protein that makes up hair and nails. This can cause hair loss, red, irritated skin, and scabs and lesions on the skin. Internal parasites such as intestinal worms feed on nutrients that are meant for healthy skin and hair. This can result in localized or non-localized hair loss in dogs.
Hormonal diseases
Hormonal disorders are among the factors that cause hair loss in dogs. Autoimmune thyroiditis, diabetes mellitus, and adrenal gland disorders can disrupt the production of important hormones. These disorders will affect the health of the animal's skin and coat. In the case of autoimmune thyroiditis, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing insufficient thyroid hormone production.
These are important for metabolism and cell growth, including hair growth. With diabetes mellitus, the body cannot produce or use insulin effectively, ultimately leading to hair loss and dry, irritated skin. Adrenal gland disorders can also cause hair loss.
Allergies
Allergies can be caused by various allergens such as food, insects, medications, chemicals, pollens, etc. They cause itching, redness, irritation, and ultimately hair loss. Food allergies are a reaction to a food ingredient such as animal protein, grains, or food additives.
A food allergy can cause hair loss on various parts of the body. Medication reactions are also important causes to be aware of. Itching, redness, irritation, and hair loss on various parts of the body are the consequences.
Behavioral disorders
Behavioral problems are usually the result of stress, anxiety, or frustration. In most cases, they lead to excessive scratching, excessive licking, and biting, which can damage your pet's skin and fur. Stressed and anxious dogs will scratch, lick, and chew excessively. This can result in skin lesions and hair loss.
It's always a good idea to consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying medical causes for excessive scratching. Your little pooch may feel frustrated if they lack physical and mental exercise, social interaction, and stimulating activities. Scratching, licking, and biting then become a way for them to vent their frustration.
Excessive or Natural Hair Loss? Understanding the Symptoms
My dog is shedding a lot of hair , how do I know if this is normal? In reality, when you understand the symptoms, it becomes easier to manage the situation.
Hair cycle of dogs
The hair cycle in dogs is a regular process of growth, with resting and shedding occurring. Understanding the hair cycle allows you to watch for signs that indicate excessive hair loss in a dog .
The first phase of the hair cycle is the growth phase, during which the hair grows. Depending on the breed and hair length, growth can last 2 to 6 months. The hair then enters its resting phase and stops growing for 2 to 3 weeks. Finally, the hair falls out to be replaced by new hair during the shedding phase.
Seeing a dog shedding a lot of hair isn't necessarily a serious problem. However, you should monitor the amount of hair loss and look out for any sudden changes. In dogs, excessive hair loss can indicate skin disorders or other illnesses.
Hair loss by dog breed and coat type
Some dog breeds have thicker or longer coats that require a lot of maintenance. Still other breeds have shorter or finer coats that don't require much maintenance.
Long-haired dogs, such as poodles, Bichon Frise, and long-haired Chihuahuas, have longer hair that can easily become tangled. Regular brushing with an accessory like a dog dematting comb is necessary to prevent matting.
Short-haired dogs like short-haired Chihuahuas and English Bulldogs have shorter coats. These are less likely to shed in large quantities and can be conditioned with a short-haired dog brush .
Localized hair loss
My dog is losing hair in a specific area. What does this mean? Localized hair loss occurs when a specific area of the dog's body loses more hair than other parts. Various factors can explain this phenomenon. Diseases, parasites, allergies, behavioral disorders, and hormonal imbalances can be the cause.
Allergies can also cause localized hair loss in response to an irritant, such as a new hair product or food. Hormonal disorders such as Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism can also cause localized hair loss.
Unusual or excessive hair loss
Unusual or excessive hair loss can be a sign of a health problem in dogs. In some cases, it's normal for dogs to shed hair. What does it mean if my dog is losing hair in patches ? When dogs shed a lot or have bald patches, it could be a different problem.
Causes of excessive hair loss can include parasitic diseases. If you have any doubts, you should consult a veterinarian to evaluate the excessive hair loss and identify the actual cause.
Treat, prevent and limit hair loss in dogs
Dog hair loss can be quickly treated when it's no longer natural. With the right steps, you can prevent and limit the damage.
Medical treatment
Medical treatment for hair loss in dogs is tailored to the cause. If it's due to parasites such as fleas or ticks, antiparasitic treatment may be necessary. This is the best option for eliminating parasites and preventing reinfestation. Flea and tick repellents can also be helpful in preventing infestations.
If hormonal disorders are the cause, medication may be recommended to control hormone levels in the body. Medications may include, for example, thyroid hormones to treat thyroid insufficiency or medications to block hormone production in dogs with adrenal hyperplasia.
For allergies, medication will be prescribed. A special diet may also be recommended to eliminate food allergens. In cases of localized hair loss, a skin biopsy will help determine the cause. The most appropriate treatment will then be determined.
Regular grooming of the coat: bathing and brushing
In addition to maintaining a healthy coat, grooming can help prevent skin problems such as allergies and infections. It's a hygiene practice you should never neglect. It can also help control parasites that can cause hair loss.
Regular bathing is intended to remove impurities and moisturize the skin. To achieve the best results, you should choose a dog shampoo that is suitable for your pet's breed and coat type. You can refer to our article on how to wash your dog to learn more. At Mikizi, you will also find many useful items for washing your dog, such as dog towels and bathrobes , bath brushes , and awashing ring .
Dog shampoos contain ingredients like argan oil and vitamin E to nourish and moisturize the skin. Aside from bathing, regular brushing can help remove dead hair and slough, reducing excessive shedding. It helps with blood circulation and the distribution of natural skin oils, which is important for a healthy coat. Always choose a brushing tool that's appropriate for your dog's breed and coat type; you'll find suitable tools in our collection of dog brushes and combs .
Food and food supplements
Diet and supplements play a vital role in preventing and controlling hair loss in dogs. A balanced and healthy diet provides your dog with the nutrients needed to maintain a healthy coat. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, can help moisturize the skin.
Hair follicles, on the other hand, help prevent hair loss. Vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, biotin, and zinc can also be helpful in maintaining a healthy coat. Vitamin and mineral supplements are available in capsules, tablets, or powders and can be added to your dog's diet.
Antiparasitic collars
Flea collars combat parasitic diseases, which can be a cause of hair loss in dogs. They come in different forms, including flea and tick repellent collars and continuous-release insecticide collars. A flea collar will effectively protect your dog.
Repellent collars repel parasites from your dog by releasing a repellent odor or substance. Continuous-release insecticide collars, on the other hand, are designed to slowly release an insecticide that kills parasites that come into contact with the collar.
The flea collar for your dog should be chosen based on its weight, breed, and activity level. You should also follow the collar's instructions for use to increase its effectiveness and reduce the risks to your dog. Discover our collection of flea control products for dogs now to protect your dog from parasites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Hair Loss
My dog is losing hair, should I be worried?
Your dog's hair loss isn't necessarily serious. In fact, it happens regularly due to their natural coat renewal cycle. However, if your dog is shedding more hair than usual or if bald patches appear, consult a veterinarian.
You should be aware of the symptoms associated with hair loss. These include red patches of skin, itching, inflammation, and more. Depending on the cause, your veterinarian may recommend medical treatment, a change in diet, or more frequent grooming.
At what age does a puppy lose its down?
Most puppies lose their downy fur between 3 and 6 months of age. It's important to note that the timing can vary depending on the breed, environment, and genetics of each puppy. When the downy fur falls out, it is replaced by the puppy's final coat, which can be longer, thicker, and denser than the downy fur.
What are some home remedies for dog hair loss?
There are several home remedies that can help reduce hair loss in dogs. However, consulting a veterinarian is always recommended before using them.
Olive oil can help nourish the coat and stimulate hair growth. Add a little oil to your dog's food or massage it directly into the coat, regardless of the breed of dog that is shedding. Lemon juice mixed with warm water for massaging can help strengthen hair follicles and prevent further hair loss.
Please feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions or suggestions. We would be happy to answer them and support you in your relationship with your pet.
