A golden retriever has two coats: a topcoat and a thick undercoat. Shedding is normal, but there are many other reasons your dog may experience visible hair loss. Though it can be worrisome and unsightly, it's usually caused by something that is easily treated. In order to determine the source of the issue, it helps to observe any other behaviors or symptoms your dog has.
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Causes
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Allergies to food and environmental elements can cause inflammation, itching and eventual hair loss. Yeast infections, ringworm and hot spots can cause bald spots. Yeast infections are due to the overgrowth of yeast on the skin. Ringworm is caused when fungi multiplies on the skin and causes ring-shaped sores. Hot spots are caused by bacteria that cause open lesions on the skin. These issues are common in golden retrievers because their thick coats can keep air from circulating on their skin. This creates a warm, moist environment in which microorganisms thrive. More serious health issues, such as Cushing's disease and hypothyroidism, also can cause golden retrievers to lose hair.
Symptoms
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Before your dog loses hair, he may scratch the areas, causing redness and inflammation. He may also bite and lick the area. The rough texture of his tongue and the friction from licking can scrape the hair off of the affected area. You may notice that your golden retriever's thick fur is matted and covers sores, bites and round lesions on the skin. This may be an indication of a skin infection. If you notice that your pet has gained weight, has increased thirst or is lethargic, contact your vet to rule out more serious issues.
Treatment
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Blood tests, skin scrapings and food trials can help identify the cause of the hair loss. Golden retrievers are predisposed to allergies, so if your dog suffers from them, he may be treated with antihistamines, steroids, a dietary change or avoidance of the allergen. If your pet has an infection, antibiotics can help kill the bacteria responsible for it. If a vet determines the hair loss is caused by a systemic disease, treating the underlying cause may help regrow the hair.
Side Effects
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Side effects of various treatment options may include diarrhea and increased irritation. Introducing medications into a dog's system may upset the natural balance of bacteria, which can cause diarrhea. Also, some drugs can cause skin issues to appear as though they're getting worse before they get better. Your golden retriever may lose hair in patches on his belly, armpits or paws as his body fights infection. This is a result of the toxins being excreted from the body.
Warnings
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If your dog has diarrhea for more than 24 hours, it can lead to dehydration. This can be life-threatening, especially in very young or old dogs. Seek veterinary attention immediately. Also, though steroids can be very effective for itching and inflammation, they can cause adrenal and liver disease with extended use. Avoid medicating with steroids when other solutions may be effective.
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