Why Is My Dog Losing Hair? Common Causes and Skin Care Routines
It's normal for dogs to shed, but it isn't routine for shedding to result in your dog losing hair (alopecia), spots of hair loss (bald spots) or thinning hair. Dog hair loss can be caused by multiple factors, from skin conditions to underlying health concerns.
SUCCESS STORY: LULU
BEFORE
AFTER: STILL ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY
Lulu was found abandoned on an industrial estate. They tried numerous products for her skin for three months but nothing was helping. Her skin was red and raw, significantly thickened and areas of complete fur loss. Her nails were overgrown, ears full of wax, partially sighted and completely blind.
LOSING HAIR ROUTINE:
Step 1: Shampoo once - twice weekly
Step 2: Conditioning Mask once - twice weekly
Step 3: Moisture Balm 1-2x daily. Recently, we added the Fur & Body Oil.
Skin & Coat Routine for Dog Hair Loss:
Once you have determined the cause of your dog's hair loss, a skin and coat care routine is essential. Hair regrowth can be gradual; our range will speed up the response. Healthy skin significantly improves the condition of your dog's coat. For permanent hair loss, maintaining a healthy skin condition is still essential in preventing dry, itchy skin, irritations and infections.
Maximum Moisture Kit
Top Causes for Dog Hair Loss Revealed
There are a number of reasons why dogs may experience alopecia or hair loss. Ruling out underlining health conditions with your veterinarian is recommended.
- Allergies:
Allergies are a very common factor for dog hair loss. Skin allergies include food, flea saliva, and environmental allergies like pollen, grass or dust. Symptoms can include itchy skin, the formation of hot spots, patchy hair loss, persistent ear itching or gastrointestinal problems. - Parasites:
Fleas, mites (mange) or ringworm can lead to hair loss in dogs. The most common is fleas. If your dog is experiencing hair loss, specifically around the back of the neck or tail base, there is a strong likelihood that fleas are the cause. In addition to hair loss, parasite infestations can cause itchiness, prompting dogs to chew or scratch, leading to skin infections. - Immune Diseases or Endocrine System Changes:
It's essential to examine your dog's internal health with a veterinarian, as there are multiple health conditions that disrupt the growth of hair follicles. - Behavioural:
Overgrooming can be attributed to stress or pain. When a dog is uncomfortable, mentally stressed, or their skin is causing distress, they instinctively try to alleviate it by scratching or licking themselves. This results in a weakened skin barrier and compromised coat. - Nutritional Deficiencies:
Poor diet can cause hair loss in dogs. When dogs do not receive an adequate and balanced diet, their bodies may lack the essential nutrients necessary for healthy hair growth. Dog hair loss due to nutritional deficiencies can manifest as thinning hair, brittle or dull coat, or patches of hair loss. - Post-clipping alopecia:
This can occur to any dog but is commonly seen in densely-coated breeds like an Alaskan malamute, Siberian husky, and Pomeranians or the short-coated breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, and Italian Greyhounds. After a dog is clipped, such as in preparation for surgery, some individuals may experience slow hair regrowth and develop bald spots. - Pressure sores:
Older or giant breeds of dogs can be susceptible to developing pressure sores in areas where bony parts, such as the elbow, come into contact with hard surfaces. Over time, this constant pressure and friction can lead to thickened skin, hair loss, and the formation of calluses. - Genetics:
Certain dog breeds, such as Chinese Crested, Greyhounds, Whippets, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, Italian Greyhounds, and Staffordshire Terriers, may be genetically predisposed to hair loss. These breeds can experience bald spots and thinning hair in specific areas, including the outer ears, chest, belly, thighs, or lower neck. - Infections, trauma or foreign bodies:
These signs may include swelling, thickened skin, redness, the presence of pus, or the development of open sores. If you notice any of these symptoms, seeking veterinary treatment for your dog is crucial.
