What Are the Causes of Thinning Hair on Puppies?

For puppy owners, particularly first-time owners, any change in the dog's appearance can be concerning. Thinning hair on puppies is a notable example. However, there are a number of reasons for thinning hair in puppies, and many of the most common causes are not serious and can be easily treated.

  1. Allergies

    • Although we tend to think of dogs as causing allergies, they can actually suffer from them, too. Puppies and dogs often suffer allergic reactions to particular ingredients in a food or treat. An allergic reaction can even occur after many months of eating an ingredient. Other common causes of dog allergies are fleas and their treatments, shampoos and cleaning products. If you notice thinning hair on your puppy, think about anything new that it has eaten or has been in contact with. Try reverting back to the previous alternative. If you cannot identify what is causing the allergy, speak with your vet.

    Dog Shedding

    • It is perfectly normal for puppies to shed their puppy hair at any time between the ages of 3 and 10 months. The shedding of hair may be more noticeable in some breeds than others, and some dogs' coats remain patchy for several weeks. If the puppy seems comfortable, his thinning hair is probably due to normal shedding.

    Stress and Anxiety

    • Just as humans can lose their hair through stress, so, too, can dogs and puppies. Illness, separation from its mother, surgery and even moving to a new home can be stressful for puppies and may result in thinning of the hair. If hair thinning is extreme, try to eliminate the cause of stress. If this isn't possible, talk to your vet.

    Bathing Too Often

    • Just as bathing too often and with the wrong products can cause problems for human skin, it can lead to thinning of the hair in puppies and dogs. Use natural shampoo products on your dog. Your vet will be able to advise.

    Cushing's Disease

    • Cushing's Disease causes a dog's body to produce too much cortisol and will result in hair loss. Other symptoms include weight gain, excessive thirst and recurring infections. Talk to your vet if these symptoms are present.

    Hypothyroidism

    • When a dog's thryroid is underactive, it will not produce enough of a hormone known as thyroglobulin. This will cause hair to fall out in patches, and the dog may seem lethargic and gain weight. Consult the vet if your dog or puppy exhibits these symptoms.

    Ringworm

    • Ringworm is a fungal infection, causing itching and hair loss in dogs. A dog with ringworm will have dry, crusty skin. It is easily treated with medication from the vet.