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Hair Loss in Dogs

May 2, 2024 JOLLYES TEAM

Questions

What does hair loss in dogs look like?
What causes hair loss in dogs?
How to treat hair loss

A dog’s glossy, gleaming coat is a joy to behold, and often a sign of health and vitality. But what about a thin, patchy coat? Hair loss in dogs is a very common problem, with a variety of underlying causes. Excess shedding is a common gripe from pet parents, but it can be difficult to know when to worry. Luckily, most causes of hair loss in dogs are fairly minor and easily treated, and there are plenty of things you can do at home to keep your dog’s coat in perfect condition.

What does hair loss in dogs look like?

Hair loss (alopecia) in dogs can be minor or can be very dramatic. It varies from a single patch of hair loss in some dogs, to an almost full body loss in others. Some causes of alopecia affect certain specific areas of the body, such as the Demodex mite causing the odd sight of dogs with hair loss around the eyes.

What causes hair loss in dogs?

Hair growth and loss is a natural and normal cycle for dogs. Most dogs moult hair in regular cycles throughout the year, but this shouldn't leave noticeable patches of hair loss.

Also known as alopecia, hair loss can occur in patches or over the whole body. It can be dramatic, resulting in completely bald areas, or merely cause thinning of the normal hair coat. Luckily, hair loss in dogs is usually treatable, and not permanent.

There are some common causes of alopecia in dogs.

Parasites
If your dog is playing host to some extra ‘friends’, hair loss can be a big red flag. Mites, such as Demodex and Sarcoptes, cause mange, a skin condition which causes hair loss and sometimes extreme itching. Fleas can also cause dogs to itch and scratch at their skin, resulting in sore patches and areas of hair loss. Parasites spread rapidly into your home and onto other pets (and even people!), so it’s recommended to use preventative anti-parasitic medication or to tackle the problem urgently when it arises.
Infections
Skin infections (dermatitis) can result in patches of hair loss, often accompanied by other symptoms such as red, crusty, scaly or sore skin. The fungal infection ‘ringworm’ commonly causes small circular patches of hair loss in dogs, often accompanied by scaly skin. Other fungal and bacterial infections lead to itchy, red skin which can have a yeasty odour.
Allergies
Dogs with hair loss may have allergies. Dogs can be allergic to lots of things, from pollen to dust mites, mould, flea saliva and various food ingredients. Allergies can present with many different symptoms in dogs, but itchy skin is a common one, and this can lead rapidly to hair loss as your dog scratches and rubs at their skin.
Over-grooming
Dogs groom themselves to keep their coat in tip-top condition. However, overly enthusiastic self-grooming can result in alopecia. Dogs can over-groom due to itchy skin conditions, but also due to pain and stress.
Physiological change
The normal hair cycle in dogs can be disrupted by various factors in a dog’s life, such as pregnancy and lactation. Excess shedding can also be a symptom of stress or poor nutrition.
Other medical conditions
There are some more serious health conditions that can cause hair loss in dogs, especially if the alopecia is more generalised than patchy. Conditions such as Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism and other hormonal disorders can affect hair growth.

How to treat hair loss

If you’ve noticed your dog shedding more than usual, distinct patches of hair loss or a thinning coat, it’s recommended to visit your vet for a check-over. Look out for additional symptoms, such as sore patches of skin, itchiness, redness or inflammation. Some health conditions may result in other signs such as changes to appetite, thirst or urination habits. Skin conditions can be very uncomfortable, and can rapidly progress, so it’s always best to get on top of any potential health problems.

Your vet may discuss anti-parasite treatment if there is the potential for mite or flea infestation. Antimicrobial medication may be needed if your dog has ringworm or a bacterial infection. Your vet may also suggest testing for allergies or hormonal conditions. These can often be well-managed with medication.

Can you prevent hair loss in dogs?

There are some home remedies and tips for managing and preventing dog hair loss if your pooch is medically good to go but is still shedding hair more than you’d like.

Nutrition - good nutrition is essential for a healthy skin and coat. Your dog should be on a complete diet which is designed and balanced for their age and lifestyle. If you think they need a bit of extra help, discuss a suitable supplement with your vet.
Grooming - some dog breeds have more high-maintenance coats than others, but most dogs will require some form of grooming. Regular brushing helps remove the old hair and keeps the skin’s natural oils spread through the coat, as well as preventing matting and tangling.
Bathing - overuse of shampoos and products can be detrimental, but a suitable regime for your dog will keep both their skin and coat in top condition.
Avoid friction - localised areas of hair loss can be caused by contact, such as with a collar or by lying on hard surfaces. Provide suitable bedding and a correctly fitting harness or collar to avoid this problem.
Preventative care - follow your vet’s recommendations for treatments against parasitic infections to avoid the most common cause of hair loss in dogs.

If you’re concerned about your dog losing hair, speak to your local vet today.