Hair Loss in Dogs (Canine Alopecia)

Seasonal hair loss in dogs is normal, but if your dog's hair is thinning so much that the skin becomes visible, it means problem.

Canine alopecia is a condition in which there is excessive hair loss in dogs. This condition is rather complicated as it can be triggered by quite a few causes. Dog hair loss can be partial and localized (restricted to one or two places in the body) or complete and generalized.

A dog's hair protects the skin. It also keeps the dog warm in the winter and prevents extremely warm air from reaching the skin in the hot summer weather. It is obvious therefore that canine alopecia can make a dog vulnerable to the elements.

Causes of Hair Loss in Dogs

Skin Problems

In many cases, dog hair loss is caused by various skin problems, the most common ones being:

ringworm;
hot spots;
mange (scabies);
allergies (from air-borne allergens such as pollens and molds, or food allergies);
flea allergies.

All of the above skin problems make a dog itch, and the incessant scratching, chewing, and licking in turn can lead to hair loss.

Alopecia caused by these skin problems is generally localized, limited to the parts of the body affected by the skin problem.

Malnutrition

New hairs require a lot of nutrients and protein to grow and replace the old dead ones. A lack of these nutrients can result in brittle and weak hair, as well as scanty hair growth. Poor nutrition can be caused by poor, low-quality foods, poor absorption of nutrients, or internal parasites such as worms.

Alopecia caused by malnutrition tends to be generalized, affecting the whole body of the dog.

Hormonal Problems

Dog hair loss may also be caused by hormonal problems, such as:

hypothyroidism (an abnormally low production of thyroid hormone);
diabetes (deficiencies in insulin);
Cushing's disease (an increased production of a hormone called cortisol);
other hormonal diseases, such as imbalances in circulating amounts of sex hormones.

Alopecia caused by hormonal imbalances also tend to be generalized, affecting the whole body of the dog. This type of alopecia usually occurs in middle-aged to older dogs.

Emotional Problems

Some pets may experience hair loss when they are under stress, or when they have anxiety. Usually a stressed or anxious dog will scratch and lick himself excessively, sometimes to the point of self-mutilation.

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Signs of Hair Loss in Dogs

Besides all the dog hair flying around in your house, you will also notice that your dog's haircoat is thinning - often to the point where you can see the skin.

For localized hair loss, you will see bald patches in your dog's skin.

If the dog's hair loss is caused by one of the skin problems listed above, you will also notice that your dog's skin is hot, itchy, or inflammed.

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Treatment for Hair Loss in Dogs

Conventional treatment for dog hair loss is to find out and to use medications to treat the underlying cause.

Natural Remedies for Hair Loss in Dogs

Quite a few natural remedies and supplements can be used to address the various causes of canine alopecia.

To ensure that your dog has healthy skin and hair, supplements such as fatty acids, vitamins (especially A, C, and E) are important. Visit our page on Natural Supplements for a Dog for more information.

If your dog suffers from hair loss due to stress or anxiety, try using natural remedies such as herbs, homeopathy and/or aromatherapy to calm and relax your dog. Visit our page on Dog Anxiety Natural Remedies for more information on this topic.

D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).

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Information on this site is for educational purpose only.
It is not intended to replace the advice and treatment of a veterinarian.
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