Pomeranians are small, long-haired dogs that are popular for their cuddly, fluffy appearance. Because many people are attracted to Pomeranians due to their fluffiness, ensuring coat health is of utmost importance. Unfortunately, various conditions, such as flea allergies and the presence of mites that cause itching may lead to hair loss.
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Definition
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Benadryl is a common over-the-counter medication used to treat allergies in humans. In the proper dosages, it's also often recommended for dogs with allergies and mites. Because Pomeranians are very small dogs, a dose of Benadryl appropriate for a small child may be excessive and even dangerous. However, in the right dosage, it can help Pomeranians suffering from hair loss as a result of itching.
Function
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Benadryl will work to stop hair loss in a Pomeranian that results from itching. Your Pomeranian will itch less so he will scratch less and as a result will pull out less of his fur. Benadryl, however, may only treat the symptom of itchiness, so unless the underlying reason for the itchiness is addressed, the hair loss may begin anew as soon as Benadryl is discontinued.
Diagnosis
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It's important to understand what is causing hair loss in your Pomeranian before beginning to administer Benadryl. Some conditions that are known to cause hair loss in Pomeranians specifically are adrenal sex hormone responsive dermatosis, castration responsive dermatosis, and growth hormone responsive alopecia, according to Dr. Holly Nash of the Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education website. These conditions will likely require treatment with prescription medications. Additionally, severe allergies and mites may be treated with special dips and steroids. Benadryl is appropriate only for mild and passing allergies and mites that are also being treated with medications specifically for that problem.
Dosage
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The recommended dose of Benadryl for dogs is one to two mg per lb of body weight, according to the Vet Pets website. Pomeranians typically weigh between three and seven pounds as adults. If administering Benadryl for an allergy in your Pomeranian, start with a conservative amount--about 1 mg per lb. If that doesn't seem to help, you may increase the dose to 2 mg per lb. Remember that your Pomeranian may look much heavier than he actually is because of all his fur. Thus, it's important not to guess, but rather go by his exact weight.
Considerations
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Hair loss in Pomeranians is not always a sign that something is wrong. Pomeranians are known to go through a phase called the "puppy uglies," at around five or six months of age. During this time, they can lose much of their fur. This is normal. Pomeranians commonly lose fur after anesthesia, and female Poms may shed excessively after having a litter. These stages do not call for the use of Benadryl. Simply wait them out and the fur will grow back.
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