Alopecia in dogs can be an alarming and emotionally distressing sight. This skin condition causes isolated or patterns of hair loss across the dog’s head or body.
Although not a painful dermatological issue, it gives them a rugged and unkempt appearance. Moreover, its presence is a potential indicator of an underlying ailment. Thus, sudden hair loss should not be ignored and must be given attention by the vet.
Let’s look into the causes, symptoms, and conventional medical treatments for alopecia in dogs. We will also share some home remedies you can use to help curb this skin condition.
What Causes Alopecia in Dogs?
Many factors lead to hair loss in dogs such as:
- Endocrine diseases
- Genetic conditions (e.g., colour dilution alopecia)
- Hormonal problems (e.g., overactive adrenal sex hormone)
- Skin diseases
- Skin infections
- Parasite infestations (e.g., mange mites)
- Allergic reactions
- Poor nutrition
Pregnancy and lactation may also cause alopecia in dogs but fortunately, it is temporary. It occurs due to the lack of nutrients in the dam’s body. Once her system recovers from giving birth and producing milk, her coat will gradually regrow.
What Are the Symptoms of Alopecia in Dogs?
Dogs that experience hair loss may show the following clinical signs:
- Flaky and irritated skin
- Bald patches on the sides of the body
- Dry coat
- Brittle hair shaft
- Thickened skin
- Excessive shedding
Areas of hair loss can be itchy and if frequently scratched, bitten, or licked, papules may begin to form. Exposure to environmental pathogens may cause these sores to develop secondary bacterial infections.
Thus, alopecia in dogs must be given proper medical attention to prevent this symptom from exacerbating.
How Is Alopecia in Dogs Diagnosed by the Veterinarian?
A thorough physical examination will be carried out by the veterinarian to check for other symptoms of underlying diseases. Various laboratory tests may also be taken for a more accurate diagnosis.
Here are some of the possible tests the vet may recommend:
- Blood tests
- Ear smear
- Faecal exam
- Skin biopsy
- Skin scrapings
Once the root cause of alopecia in dogs is definitively identified, the veterinarian will proceed to tailor treatment options appropriate for their condition.
How Is Alopecia in Dogs Treated Conventionally?
The treatment for affected dogs will depend on their diagnostic result. For instance, if bacterial infections are found to be the cause of alopecia, antibiotics will be prescribed by the vet. In the case of hormone abnormalities, hormone therapy and medications will be given.
Skin disease-induced alopecia in dogs can be addressed by topical therapy and medications, such as antifungal, steroids, and vitamin E or omega 3 fat supplementation. Surgical procedures may be necessary to resolve specific underlying ailments of hair loss, such as skin cancer.
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What Are the Home Remedies for Alopecia in Dogs
Conventional vet treatments are not the only solutions for alopecia in dogs. Natural home remedies also exist to help bring back your furry pal’s luxurious coat, such as:
1. Making Dietary Changes
Some canines are more prone to skin allergies due to the food you give them. Re-evaluate the food brand that you are currently using and look for a more natural high-quality brand.
In addition, you may opt for other homemade options such as cooked chicken breast and some cooked vegetables good for canines.
2. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been used to treat many medical conditions in humans. It is beneficial for animals too, many farmers use ACV as a routined supplement for their livestock.
How to Use:
Make a mixture of one part of unfiltered apple cider vinegar and one part of water into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on the affected areas of your dog’s skin and leave it to dry for a few minutes.
Moreover, an antifungal bath is also deemed effective. Add a little undiluted vinegar to the bath and rinse him with the mixture.
Another option is to add unfiltered apple cider vinegar to his food once a day for a week.
- Give 1 teaspoon for dogs weighing up to 14 pounds.
- Give 2 teaspoons for dogs weighing between 15 and 34 pounds.
- Give 1 tablespoon for dogs weighing between 35 and 85 pounds.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut is deemed beneficial to the skin of both humans and canines. It can be used orally or topically as a treatment for alopecia in dogs. This natural home remedy contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
How to Use:
Take half a cup of coconut oil and 2 drops of oregano oil, then mix them together. Then rub the solution on the dog’s affected area twice a day.
Another way to administer is to include the mixture in his meal once a day. Add a teaspoon or tablespoon of extra-virgin coconut oil, depending on your dog’s size.
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4. Oatmeal
Oatmeal relieves itchiness in dogs. It has properties that help nourish and soothe your pet’s skin. An oatmeal bath is even recommended for affected canines.
How to Use:
- Put a cup and a half of grounded oatmeal into a big tub full of warm water.
- Add a few drops of lavender essential oil.
- Keep him bathed in the special oatmeal bath for a few minutes (5–10 minutes).
- Rinse it all with warm water.
The process should be repeated once daily if the itchiness persists.
FAQs About Alopecia in Dogs
1. Can Dogs Hair Grow Back After Alopecia?
Dogs’ hair can grow back after alopecia. Depending on the severity of the hair loss, it may take several months to over a year for their fur to regrow.
Keep in mind that certain underlying health conditions may cause alopecia to reoccur if triggered, such as allergies and parasite infestation. Thus, pawrents must be diligent in carrying out preventive measures to avoid this issue from taking place.
2. Is Alopecia in Dogs Painful?
Alopecia in dogs can be painful and itchy, particularly if it is caused by inflammatory health problems. Through the vet’s help, pawrents of canines with hair loss can manage this condition through appropriate treatments.
3. Does Stress Cause Alopecia in Dogs?
Stress can cause alopecia in dogs. For this reason, pet owners need to make sure that their canine companions have a peaceful and relaxing living environment.
As much as possible, avoid making sudden big changes to their routines.
4. What Is Seasonal Flank Alopecia in Dogs?
Seasonal flank alopecia in dogs is a type of hair loss that commonly takes place during the winter season and may last for up to 6 months. Affected canines with this condition tend to lose fur in their flank area.
Fortunately, seasonal flank alopecia is temporary and most pooches grow back their hair around late fall or early spring.
Conclusion
Alopecia in dogs is the medical term for canine hair loss. Several factors can influence its manifestation and mostly, they are health problems. Thus, if you notice your furry pal shedding his fur more than usual, it might be a good idea to get him examined by the vet to check for underlying ailments.
