Even a bad diet can cause the weakening of the hair and its consequent fall.
Who hasn’t had to sweep two, three, four times a day when the canine member of the family is undergoing a hair change? The hair loss in dogs is a common phenomenon, but it is crucial to identify the cause to be able to act in time if the problem is serious.
Whether due to simple issues like a change in diet or really serious causes, hair loss in dogs can be cured by taking the necessary measures recommended by a veterinarian.
The problem of hair loss in dogs occurs when the dog sheds excessively and the skin is visible.
The reasons can be varied, from illness to stress. In this article we will talk about causes and treatments to be used in a preventive manner, before turning to a specialist.
Common causes of hair loss in dogs and treatments
Dogs, like people, express different types of discomfort through their fur. It’s not just scabies or dermatitis that cause canine alopecia.
Even a bad diet can cause the weakening of the hair and its consequent continuous fall. If this is the case, treatment can include various medications or simple walks in the sun.
1. Poor nutrition
Cause: When our animals consume food, we must be careful and ensure that their meal always includes the nutrients necessary for the age and size of the animal.
Additionally, you may need to include extra foods such as bones or even boiled rice.
Treatment: in these cases the treatment is simple. Just change the power supply to notice the improvements.
2. Allergies
Causes: Dogs can suffer from various allergies which manifest as rashes. Mites, mold, pollen , cleaning products or some chemicals are some of the triggers.
The main symptom of allergy in dogs is itching, which can be very annoying if not treated in time.
If there are areas of the body that are hairless, inflamed and red in color, it is probably an allergy.
Treatment: only the veterinarian will be able to indicate the treatment indicated for each dog. Usually, the animal is given several injections until all symptoms disappear.
3. Calluses and ulcers
Causes: pressure ulcers are those small callused regions where the skin has remained without blood irrigation. They tend to originate in older dogs and are due to the simple passage of time and the consumption of certain areas, such as the elbows.
Treatment: If the area hurts or bleeds, hydrogen peroxide can be added to prevent the wound from becoming infected.
Causes and treatment of hair loss in dogs due to complex causes
1. Cushing’s syndrome
Causes: Cushing’s syndrome is due to the appearance of a small tumor in the pituitary gland. This causes the body to produce too much cortisone .
In addition to the loss of hair in the dog, this disorder will cause weight loss, abdominal inflammation, breathlessness, dejection and weakness.
Treatment: since eradicating the tumor would require too risky an intervention, this disease is fought with medicines for life.
2. Parasitic infections
Causes: Fleas, ticks and subcutaneous parasites such as scabies are very harmful to the skin, and can cause hair loss in dogs.
In addition to good nutrition, to prevent these parasites it is recommended to use a special shampoo .
Treatment: Fleas and ticks are easy to treat at home. There are talcs and other products to be applied mainly on the dog’s neck and which can eliminate this sore .
In case of scabies, in addition to talc and similar products, it will be necessary to administer special medicines to the animal depending on the ailment it has contracted.
Other causes and remedies for hair loss in dogs
Some dogs have a genetic predisposition to alopecia. Breeds such as the Chihuahua or the Doberman tend to shed hair on their torso, back, neck and ears.
In case the cause of the hair loss in the dog cannot be treated with medicines, there are home solutions to reduce the volume of the falling hair.
Grape seed extract has interesting antioxidant qualities that are beneficial to the skin. It is sold in capsules also available for dogs; even brushing the dog can help prevent the fall from being too abundant.
In summary, the causes of hair loss in dogs can be due to more or less serious diseases or organic problems that can be solved with the daily care of the animal.
In most cases, a visit to the vet can reassure you as owners and be of great help to your pets.
| Dog Behavior | Dog Food and Nutrition |
| Dog Training | Dog Grooming |
| Dog Health | Tips for Dog Owners |
| Puppies | Dog Breeds |
| Dog Adoption | Travel with Dogs |
