Many dog owners know that their dogs shed their hair periodically, and it can be a hassle to clean up. There are many reasons why a dog sheds its hair, and why some dogs shed their hair more than others. Shedding is a natural occurrence, but excessive shedding may be sign of other health issues.
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Causes
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Dogs can cause their own hair to fall out by rubbing or licking themselves more than usual. This will cause higher hair loss than usual and can sometimes be attributed to anxiety, boredom, stress or itching due to allergies.
Timeline
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Hair growth and hair loss can also depend on seasons. As spring nears, a dog will shed more than normal because it needs to get rid of its thick winter coat.
Issues
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Hair loss in dogs can be a sign of a more serious illness like cancer, diabetes, parasites or a thyroid disorder. If a dog is experiencing hair loss in large patches or clumps, it should be taken to a vet.
Alopecia
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Hair loss in dogs as well as humans is called alopecia. In the case of both dogs and humans, the hair growth will sometimes return spontaneously.
Prevention/Solution
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Regular brushing and grooming will capture any loose hair and prevent it from winding up on your furniture. Grooming can be done at home, or it can be done by a professional groomer.
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