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Symptoms
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Alopecia X affects dogs differently. The loss of the hair can cause just one particular area to lose hair, or it can be an all-encompassing hair loss problem. It typically is a condition that occurs in more males than females. Sometimes the hair loss is rapid, but it can take as long as eight years for other dogs. By 3 years old, the dog may begin losing of hair and have a noticeable dry, dull coat. The primary hairs that are longer are shed first.
Diagnosis
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There is no single test for the diagnosing Alopecia X. The loss of hair can be indicative of other diseases or conditions. Certain other conditions need to be ruled out first, such as hypothyroidism, hyposomatotrophism, Cushing's disease or follicular dysplasia. Your veterinarian will need to do a series of tests that include a urinalysis, a blood panel, thyroid and adrenal hormone testing and a skin biopsy.
Treatment
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If the loss of hair is caused by a sex hormone imbalance, then sterilizing the dog is the form of treatment. Hair growth will typically return after this. If not, the drugs methyltestosterone or lysodren can be given.
Oral melatonin has been proven effective in 30 to 40 percent of dogs suffering from Alopecia X. It needs to be given twice per day. It should only be prescribed if the veterinarian has dismissed the other potential reasons for the hair loss. Melatonin is a nutritional supplement that is available over the counter.
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Alopecia X Treatment for Dogs
The word "alopecia" is a medical term meaning hair loss. Alopecia X is a hormonal condition and is not considered harmful to your dog. This condition is also referred to as black skin disease, the cold funk, castration-responsive dermatosis and growth hormone responsive alopecia. It can be a genetic condition or caused by parasites, stress, bacteria, endocrine problems, nutrition or growth hormones.