Many allergies can cause a dog to lose hair; some may be environmental like pollen and pesticides, and some can be attributed to pests such as fleas. Loss of hair can be widespread over a dog's body or patchy spots on certain areas. A visit to a veterinarian will determine proper diagnosis and treatment of an allergy and should be done as soon as possible after the first sign of hair loss is noticed.
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Mites or fleas
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Example of a mite whose shell secretions may cause an allergic reaction in dogs. When a dog has an allergic reaction to the saliva or shell secretions of mites or fleas, the symptoms will be intense itching, skin redness, papules and scales, and hair loss. At times, a secondary bacterial infection can occur. In addition to the common flea, lice and mange are classified as mites. Steroids or antihistamines are typically prescribed for the itching, and various topical dips such as amitraz or ivermectin are good to heal the skin condition itself.
Fungal Infections
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A good example of a fungal infection is ringworm, which gets its name from the circular pattern it makes as it spreads, although the spot may not always be ring-shaped. Fungi are common in soil, and a dog that digs up a rodent burrow may contact ringworm easily. Topical medicinal shampoos or dips such as miconazole may be prescribed by a veterinarian as treatment for the resulting hair loss, but oral medications like griseofulvin may also be given. It is worthy to note that canine ringworm can be transmitted to humans; schedule a veterinarian visit for your dog when a lesion appears on its skin, circular shaped or otherwise.
Environmental
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Common household cleaners or sprays may cause allergic reactions in dogs. A dog that is sensitive to chemicals commonly found in items around the home may have allergic reactions, including, but not limited to: red skin and small bumps or blisters, itching and, in chronic conditions, hair loss. Materials such as rubber, wool, plastic and chemical dyes and carpet deodorizers are environmental triggers for dog allergies. Outside elements such as pollens and poison ivy can also cause hair loss. Restriction of exposure to allergens, steroids or antihistamines may be prescribed by the veterinarian as treatment.
Foods
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Something that dogs eat may be causing an allergy. Like humans, a dog may react to certain foods. Hair loss is a common reaction to food allergies along with red skin and itching. Schedule a veterinarian visit as soon as possible when any physical or behavioral changes are observed. Food elimination trials will be the best way to effect a diet change for your dog.
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