Dogs frequently suffer from hair loss, either general or localized. Reasons vary, and accompanying symptoms can often help your veterinarian pinpoint the cause. Before you visit the vet, pay close attention to your dog's behavior so you can let the vet know about any licking, chewing or anxiety behaviors that may be present.
-
Friction/Calluses
-
Calluses are common in large dogs who lay on hard surfaces, and are usually confined to the knees, elbows and ankles, where the bone rubs against the floor. If the hair loss is not accompanied by licking or chewing, friction could be the problem. Occasionally, the areas will develop red sores, or may even swell and fill with fluid. Most cases simply require behavior modification, like guiding the dog toward his bed when he's lying on the floor. Applying a soothing salve to the area can help as well. If fluid develops, drains will be required.
Anxiety
-
If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, he may be obsessively licking when you're not around. This can cause hair loss and irritation, and requires treatment of the anxiety in conjunction with treatment of the skin problem.
Allergies
-
Food and environmental allergies can irritate your dog's skin and cause hair loss. The vet may recommend allergy testing to determine the exact allergen that is causing the problem. Food allergies are rectified by switching to a hypoallergenic diet. Environmental allergies are more difficult to treat, and often require a series of desensitization injections.
Infection
-
Fungal or bacterial infections are frequent culprits of canine hair loss. It usually begins with a small scratch or abrasion that provides an entry point for the microorganism. As the infection sets in, the skin itches badly and the dog will often chew the spot until it bleeds. The moisture provides a perfect growth medium for the offender, and the open sore allows it to take hold even stronger. Thus begins a cycle that will repeat itself until treatment is sought. The vet will prescribe antibiotics and an antibacterial or anti-fungal ointment, and the dog will have to wear an Elizabethan collar to keep him from chewing and licking the affected area.
Parasites
-
Flea infestations and mange mites can both cause hair loss due to hair breakage and excessive scratching. Treatment depends upon what type of parasite is causing the problem, but keeping the dog on a flea medication is a great prevention method. Mange mites require either an injection or a series of dips, but treatment is generally successful.
Disease
-
Several diseases can cause hair loss, the most common being Cushing's disease, which is caused by high levels of cortisol. If your dog has recently been diagnosed with an illness or chronic condition, the hair loss may likely be a symptom of the disease. In some cases, the hair will grow back gradually as treatment for the disease progresses, although in some cases the loss is permanent. Depending upon what disease your dog has, the vet will be able to let you know what kind of outcome you can expect.
-