A dull coat and weight loss in dogs are usually indicative of poor or inadequate nutrition. Infections can lead to a lack of proper nutrition, as can feeding your dog an inadequate or low quality food, or an insufficient amount of food. The only sure way to figure out what is causing these problems with your pooch is to bring him to a veterinarian for a physical examination and testing, according to the "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians."
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Parasitic Causes
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Parasites such as tapeworms, hookworms and roundworms all have the capability to remove nutrients that a dog ingests. These are some of the most common causes for a loss of weight and the degeneration of coat condition.
Internal Causes
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Bacterial infections can lead to a battery of other symptoms, such as diarrhea and vomiting, that lead to a loss of vital nutrients due to the dog being unable to keep food in his system long enough to absorb nutrients. Viral infections are rare due to vaccinations, but can happen. Ehrlichia, which is deemed the AIDS of the canine world, is just one example of a virus that can cause these symptoms.
Symptoms
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Dull coat texture and sheen accompanied by weight loss are often accompanied by other symptoms. If your dog is acting unusual or out of the ordinary, note these symptoms to mention the next time you bring her to the veterinarian.
Prevention
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Feeding foods that have an insufficient amount of nutrients can lead to a dog losing weight and having a dull coat. An insufficient amount of food can also lead to a dull coat and weight loss. Make sure to feed your dog an adequate amount of proper food to prevent these symptoms from appearing without medical cause.
Treatment
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Diagnosis and treatment of the specific cause of dull fur and weight loss can only be performed by a veterinarian. If your dog is experiencing symptoms, seek veterinary medical care.
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