Causes of Hair Loss in Dogs

Hair loss in dogs, can be connected to many skin disorders. Nearly all domesticated animals face hair loss problems at some time in their lives, but dogs seem to be one of the most seriously affected. We all know how dogs shed hair in order to grow new, but serious hair loss in dogs can be caused by a variety of reasons, so it becomes difficult to get to the root cause of the problem.

One of the most common causes of hair loss in dogs, or alopecia, is allergic reactions.

Here are a few common allergens:

Exposure to inhalants, deodorants and room fresheners. Pollen or dust mites. Drug or food related allergies. Environmental irritants, chemical detergents, paints and textile fibers.

Fleas and ticks can contribute to skin and coat problems, resulting in hair loss in dogs, so it's important to have a program in place to prevent your dog from being infected with these parasites. Also make sure your dogs immune system is functioning at it's best so it can deal with any diseases it may come into contact with.

Hair loss in dogs can also be a symptom of certain medical conditions, like Cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, and Tail gland hyperplasia.

The fundamental cause of Cushing's disease is the increase of corticosteroids in the body. This may be due to the use of synthetic steroids, or just a natural process in the dog's body. It is a fatal disease and needs immediate veterinary care.

Hypothyroidism is caused by an under-active thyroid gland which can cause a dog to lose hair and develop bacterial and yeast infections.

Normal operation of the sebaceous tail gland is essential for supply of sebum for lubricating hair and skin. Tail gland hyperplasia is a secondary disease in which the enlarged gland malfunctions.

Stress and anxiety can also contribute to canine hair loss.

Moreover, canine hair loss occurs during pregnancy and other stressful conditions, such as if your dog has been sick or involved in an operation, or surgery of some kind.

Allergic reaction and medical conditions aside, hair loss in dogs is also a major problem that occurs in skin disorders like bacterial or fungal infections and mange.

The most common mange is caused by three types of mites - Sarcoptes, Demodex and Cheyletiella. The first two result in a substantial hair loss, while the third causes minimal alopecia except in its severe manifestation. All forms of mange also have an underlying symptom of intense itching and scratching.

Click Here for more information on mange in dogs

Even though dog hair loss can occur seasonally, it may be indicative of certain allergic reactions, medical conditions, and/or infections. Consequently, unreasonable hair loss should not be discounted. The symptom can in reality contribute to the diagnosing of a much more serious disease.

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