We Are The Cure Blog | Canine Cancer Information

Hair loss in dogs is usually triggered by ‘shedding’ which is a natural process of getting rid of unwanted hair, but it could sometimes mean the advent of an oncoming disease also. Hair loss can actually result from a large number of factors including food allergies, dermatitis, hypothyroidism, mange caused by parasites, cushing’s syndrome, poor nutrition and psychological conditions. Sometimes a genetic factor like pituitary dwarfism may also be responsible for canine hair loss.

Here’s a quick look at some of the deep-seated causes of hair loss in dogs:

Allergies
Allergies in dogs may result from certain food items, pollen, dust and flea bite. However, the saliva of the flea is considered more harmful than the bite itself. Sometimes household cleaning products and rubber may also induce allergies.

Dermatitis
Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin due to rashes. It is caused by allergic reaction to specific allergens like antibiotics, metals, rubber, wool, plastic, chemicals, dyes, deodorants, irritants, fleas and food additives.

Alopecia
Alopecia is the complete or partial lack of hair in any area of the skin where hair would normally be found. Alopecia in dogs is caused by dermatitis, ringworm or cushing’s syndrome.

Psychological condition
There is another type of dermatitis in dogs called acral lick dermatitis. This is a condition in which the dog licks himself profusely due to anxiety, boredom, or stress leading to severe hair loss.

Poor nutrition
Sometimes lack of essential fatty acids or protein in the normal diet may trigger hair loss. This can be corrected by supplementing your pet’s diet with food items rich in protein.

Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which there is a hormonal imbalance in the body due to improper functioning of the thyroid glands. This leads to excessive loss of hair. Hypothyroidism can be treated successfully with hormone supplement medication.

Mange caused by parasites
Parasites like flea and mite may lead to hair loss in dogs. Other symptoms may include redness, scales, and itching. Mites produce mange which are of 3 types like sarcoptic, demodectic and cheyletiellosis. They are usually present under the dog’s skin.

Cushing’s Syndrome (Hyperadrenocorticism)
Cushing’s disease is a serious condition in which your dog’s adrenal gland doesn’t function properly. Although cushing’s syndrome can be treated with surgery, medication is considered more viable. Sometimes dogs who have been on corticosteroids for a prolonged period develop a different type of Cushing’s syndrome. However, this can be treated by reducing steroid intake.

Pituitary dwarfism
It is a hereditary condition caused by the insufficient development of growth hormone.  The lack of growth hormone is caused by the lack of development of pituitary gland. Unfortunately there is no cure for pituitary dwarfism. Human pituitary gland has been used in some dogs but with guarded prognosis. One of the most prominent symptoms of pituitary dwarfism is hair loss.

So, if you notice excessive hair loss in your dog over a protracted period of time consult his vet without delay.