Hair Loss in Akitas

Akitas are a large breed of dogs that descend from a 5,000-year-old species of dog from Japan. The name comes from the province of Akita in Japan, where the Akitas' size was utilized to hunt large game, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Complete Guide to dogs. Hair loss in Akitas can have a variety of causes.

  1. Sebaceous Adenitis

    • According to the University of California, Davis Book of Dogs, sebaceous adenitis is a type of skin disease with unknown origins. Akitas can contract this disease, which causes severe hair loss. It is treated with a medical shampoo.

    Volt-Koyanagi-Harada's Disease

    • According to an article by Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki for the website akita-friends.com, Volt-Koyanagi-Harada's Disease (VKH) is a disease that impacts an Akitas immune system. It causes hair loss, loss of color in the fur and blindness. Many dogs contract this disease at a young age, between 18 to 20 months. There is no cure and treatment is difficult. If your Akita is displaying any of these symptoms, you should consult a veterinarian immediately.

    Mites

    • According to a recent book about Akitas by Dan Rice, D.V.M., mites can also cause hair loss in Akitas. Redness, itching and serum oozing will accompany this symptom.

    Zinc Deficiency

    • According to the Dog Owner's Veterinary Handbook, a deficiency in zinc can cause hair loss in Akitas and other Northern dog breeds.

    Care

    • According to the ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs, you should brush your Akita's coat several times a week to ensure optimal health.