Why Is My Dog Losing Hair? Common Causes and Skin Care Routines

It's normal for dogs to shed, 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 underlining health concerns.

Dog Hair Loss Success Story >

Routine Care for Dog Hair Loss >

Causes of Dog Hair Loss >

FUR LOVE SUCCESS STORY: LULU

BEFORE

AFTER: STILL ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

Lulu was found abandoned on an industrial estate. Her nails were overgrown, ears full of wax, partially sighted and completely blind. Her skin was red raw, extremely thickened and areas of complete fur loss. Owner tried numerous products for her skin for 3 months but nothing was helping.

PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT:
1. Cleanse - rejuvenates cell turnover and repair without drying the skin.
2. Moisturise - nourishes, relieve's inflamation and softens the deeper layers of the skin.

SHOP THE ROUTINE:
Step 1: Shampoo once - twice weekly
Step 2: Conditioning Mask once - twice weekly
Step 3: Moisture Balm 1-2x daily and recently added the Fur & Body Oil.

Dramatic improvement in softening the skin and fur regrowth after 1 month. Long road to recovery but Lulu loves her Fur Love regime and feels better for it too.

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 important. Hair regrowth can be a gradual process, our range will speed up the response. Healthy skin significantly improves the condition of your dogs coat. For permanent hair loss, maintaining a healthy skin condition is still essential in preventing dry, itchy skin, irritations and infections.

Maximum Moisture Kit - Lavender

£70.00

These four products are recommended specifically to address hair loss, balding, fur loss, and alopecia in dogs. Save when purchased as a kit, it's ideal for revitalizing both the skin and coat, which plays a crucial role in combating these issues.

HOW TO USE:

Cleansing -

- Weekly, use the Shampoo and Mask.
- For situations requiring more frequent washing, the Mask can be used in between shampoos for added hydration to the skin and coat.
Remember, maintaining a clean dog fosters a healthy skin microbiome, which greatly enhances the chances of hair growth.

Moisturizing -

- On a daily basis, apply the Balm and Oil.
- Begin by massaging the Balm onto dry or irritated skin, then follow up by massaging the Oil into both the skin and coat.
- Additionally, applying the Oil to a damp coat after showering proves to be highly beneficial.
Pay special attention to massaging the areas experiencing hair loss on your dog, as this helps stimulate the hair follicles.

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 is a very common factor for dog hair loss. Skin allergies can be from food, flea saliva, 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 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, which can lead to skin infections.
Immune Diseases or Endocrine System Changes:
It's important to examine the internal health of your dog 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 them 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 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 commonly seen in densely-coated breeds like Alaskan malamute, Siberian husky, Pomeranians or the short coated breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, 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 large 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, it is crucial to seek veterinary treatment for your dog.