Dog Hair Loss

 

Understanding Dog Hair Loss

Hair loss in dogs can take all sorts of forms. Most, if not all of the varieties of hair loss in dogs, require a vet’s care in treating the problem. Not all species of dogs are prone to the same form of hair loss. As in human beings, hair loss in dogs can result from trauma; from modifications to their hormone system; as a result of internal or external disease or indeed as an allergic reaction to food, medication or their environment. Generally, the heaviest impact of hair loss when it comes to dogs is actually felt by the dog’s owners themselves. It is very unlikely that the dog cares whether he loses his hair or not. There is one exception to this, hair loss in dogs that are also working dogs, such as St Bernard dogs or Newfoundland dogs. This is dangerous to the dog because of the environment they work in. In this case, the dog itself will know something is wrong as they will not be able to handle the extreme cold, or the water, respectively.

Taking Note Of Hair Loss in Dogs

As most dogs effectively rely on humans to notice their hair loss it is important to recognize that hair loss in dogs is exhibited in a wide variety of ways. Most dog owners are familiar with raw spots. Raw spots are due to the dog effectively licking away the hair and sometimes several layers of skin and tissue due to an irritation. In most cases, this form of hair loss in dogs can be rapidly treated by applying a topical lotion and perhaps additional or less bathing of your dog. Something very similar to raw spots is hair loss that results from application of a flea medicine and hair loss from a tick or flea bite that results in infection. Hair loss can also occur from the dog’s collar rubbing which, in turn, causes an inflammation. These last three cases can all be handled effectively with a topical lotion.

Some of the primary kinds of infection resulting in specific areas of hair loss in dogs are mange, fungal infections, and local parasites.

There are several more esoteric forms of hair loss in dogs. Bilaterally symmetric hair loss in dogs, particularly where you have not observed them scratching as well, is often caused by a thyroid problem of what is known as Cushing’s disease. This form of hair loss in dogs requires veterinary assistance and can be observed as two somewhat identical patches of hair loss on either side of the body. If undue scratching is observed, then the problem may be hormonal. Again this must be treated by a vet.

Finding Seasonal Hair Loss

One final form of hair loss in dogs, which is potentially unique to dogs, is seasonal hair loss. At certain times of the year, a dog may simply display bald spots that appear to get better as the season changes. This may be a result of a seasonal allergen, but in some dogs it is simply a response to the seasonal change. A treatment of melatonin or topical ointments may be authorized by a vet if irritation persists.

Normal Dog Hair loss

Dog hair loss does not always have a directly observable cause. In some cases there may be underlying diseases, but as in the case of humans it could be resulting from a simple change in the dog’s body chemistry, resulting from hormone changes. Or dog hair loss can be attributed to the food that the dog eats.

One clear example of a chemical response may be dog hair loss that is observable on the tail of the dog. There is in fact a gland at the base of the tail that often results in hair loss for that particular animal. There are also certain anal irritations that a dog may have that may result in a dog’s loss of hair on the tail as well.

It is quite true that dog hair loss is more often a concern to the dog’s owner than the pet itself. However, this consideration is very important as there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of your dog encountering hair loss. First if you are a pet owner with a long haired or thick haired dog you need to carefully consider your climate. In the heat of the summer this form of hair can become clotted, dirty and be an ideal home for fleas and parasites. Therefore, if your standard flea medicines are not working you might need to consider cutting your dogs hair short as a prophylactic treatment to prevent your dog from losing hair.

Many humans also think that consistent bathing also helps. However, a dog’s skin and coat are much better protected than a human’s skin and hair with oils and other natural resisting agents. Over washing your dog can actually cause a dog’s hair loss. Use of certain flea treating shampoos is very helpful especially in longer haired dogs, as they do prevent fleas clinging to the hair. Actually, if a dog smells awful, washing them is perhaps better left to their own tongues.

Dermatological Treatment For Dog

One option for handling ordinary dog hair loss, is a visit to the veterinary dermatologist. In many cases the dog may be allergic to a simple fleabite. There is a technique known as hypo sensitization that involves injecting small amounts of the allergen into the body of the dog in the hope of creating some resistance to it. This does not always work, but is one means of preventing a dog’s hair loss.