Hair Loss in the Blue Great Dane

Color mutant alopecia is a known cause of hair loss in blue Great Danes and in other breeds with blue-colored coats. It also is known as color dilution alopecia and blue dog disease. Other causes of hair loss that may be found in any dog breed include post-clipping alopecia, which causes hair to grow back extremely slowly after clipping, demodectic mange and allergies. Hair loss may be only a cosmetic problem, or it may be an indication of health problems such as infection or immune system deficiency. It is important to take your dog to a veterinarian for a thorough examination to determine the best approach for treatment.

  1. Color Mutant Alopecia

    • Color mutant alopecia is a condition that affects dogs that are older than 4 months and have an unusual coat color. Symptoms include hair loss and dry skin; appearance of bumpy, infected hair follicles; appearance of brittle hair; and patchy hair loss as the condition progresses. Either the blue or the light-colored portions of the coat are affected. The area becomes susceptible to cold and sun exposure.

      According to the Canine Inherited Disorders Database, the hair follicles become abnormal at the cellular level, and there is "uneven clumping of pigment (melanin) granules in the hair shafts in affected areas." The condition can be somewhat relieved with medicated shampoos and moisturizing rinses for dry skin. Antibiotics may be prescribed to clear up the bacterial infection of the hair follicles, however, the hair will often be slow to regrow. The Canine Inherited Disorders Database reports that etretinate, a medication for severe psoriasis, has been shown to help some dogs regrow hair during preliminary research studies.

    Post-Clipping Alopecia

    • Some dogs when their hair is clipped do not regrow hair in the clipped area. This is known as post-clipping alopecia. Most animals eventually regrow hair, but it may take six to 24 months. Melatonin supplements in small, regulated does may be effective. Another suggested treatment, according to DVM360 Veterinary News, is massage to restore proper blood flow and increase skin temperature. Hydrotherapy with warm water also may benefit the condition.

    Allergies

    • Some dogs are allergic to chemicals, dyes, poison ivy or even common materials such as wool. This is known as allergic dermatitis. Hair loss is usually only found if the condition becomes chronic. The dog's condition may improve when the offending substance is removed from its environment. Dogs with allergic dermatitis also may respond to nutritional therapy and antihistamines.

      Food allergies also may cause hair loss; a veterinarian may recommend dietary changes or nutrients that help build the dog's immune system.

    Demodectic Mange

    • Demodectic mange may occur when the dog's immune system is deficient. This disorder is caused by infection by the demodex mite. It is generally treated by using a medicated dip.