Vitamin deficiency is one of the most common reasons dogs experience hair loss. These deficiencies can be corrected through the use of supplements or by feeding food or nutriceuticals that are rich in the missing nutrients. If increasing the dog's vitamin intake does not improve the condition of his hair coat, then he should be examined by a veterinarian to determine the cause of his hair loss.
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Causes of Hair Loss
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Hair loss in dogs is primarily caused by dietary deficiencies. However, other causes for hair loss still exist. They include hereditary ailments, medical treatments, dermatitis, parasites, fungal infections, and Cushing's disease.
Vitamins for Skin and Coat Improvement
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Many vitamins can be used to improve a dog's coat. They include vitamins A, B5, B6, C, E, and biotin. You can also feed a supplement that contains all of these vitamins.
Feeding Vitamin Supplements
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Vitamin supplements formulated specifically for dogs are available from pet-related stores and online. While it is possible to use vitamins formulated for humans, multi-vitamins containing iron should never be given to dogs. Dogs should also never be given quantities of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, since they are stored by the dog's body and can cause toxicity.
Natural Remedies to Correct Hair Loss in Dogs
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Any herb that provides the vitamins mentioned above will assist in improving a dog's coat. Such herbs include horsetail, kelp, nettle, red clover, and rose hips. In addition, oils such as flax seed and grape seed oil are beneficial in a dog's natural coat.
When Vitamins Fail to Improve Hair Coat
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Many cases of hair loss in dogs will respond to an increased amount of vitamins in their diet or given as a supplement. However, certain environmental irritants, diseases, disorders, and parasites will cause persistent hair loss even in the presence of these added vitamins. If no environmental causes can be identified, such as new detergents used on pet bedding, the dog should be brought to the vet for a professional diagnosis.
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