Hormones and Hair Loss in Dogs

Hair loss is a common disorder in dogs, with a variety of causes. Aside from environmental factors, heredity, chemicals and parasites, hormones can play a significant role in a dog's loss of hair. Treatment typically requires management of the underlying problem.

  1. Types

    • Different types of hair loss conditions occur as a result of hormones and hormonal imbalance, including growth hormone-responsive alopecia, which is thought to be a result of an enzyme deficiency or a decrease of adrenal gland hormones. Thyroid imbalance or hypothyroidism results from low thyroid hormone production, and Cushing's disease is caused by excess production of corticosteroids in the body from the adrenal gland or excess use of steroids. Hair loss can also be a consequence of either too much or too little estrogen or testosterone.

    Symptoms

    • Hormonal hair loss in dogs is typically symmetrical, with hair loss on both sides of the body occurring as bald spots with some possible crusting, scaly skin, redness and inflammation.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for dogs' hair loss due to hormones usually requires daily hormone supplements, steroids or Vitamin E supplements. Spaying or neutering your dog may also be a remedy for hair loss caused by an imbalance of estrogen or testosterone.