Dog Hair Loss Remedy

Causes of Hair Loss

• There are a wide variety of causes of hair loss in dogs. Some are hereditary, some are breed-specific, and others are due to seasonal coat changes. Most of these cases are either untreatable or will resolve themselves in time. However, dogs who are losing hair due to allergies, irritations, or malnutrition require the intervention of a caring human to solve their hair loss problem. Fortunately, a variety of treatments exist to address treatable hair loss.

Simple Solutions

• Some of the treatments for dog hair loss are relatively simple. Changing a dog's food, for instance, from a commercial food with artificial colors, flavors, or large amounts of filler to a food that contains more natural ingredients may solve a hair loss problem by addressing a food allergy.

  One of the most common causes of hair loss in dogs -- a sensitivity or allergy to fleas -- is remedied by simply getting rid of the fleas. Once the fleas are gone, the hair grows back and no medical intervention is needed.

  Bathing a dog with the gentlest shampoo possible is another simple solution. Look for a shampoo with natural, soothing ingredients such as oatmeal and natural oils for moisture. Avoid bathing unless it's really necessary -- the hot water, shampoo, and scrubbing may irritate sensitive skin and contribute to hair loss.

  Outside dogs who get overheated may be prone to hair loss related to the body's attempt to cool down. If your dog spends a great deal of time outside, be sure he has plenty of water and provide shade during the heat of the day. Bring your dog in gradually after a hot day; rapid changes in temperature can shock the body and contribute to a problem with the dog's natural regulation of his coat.

  Last, but not least, is patience. Hair loss in dogs can be caused by antibiotic usage, post-surgical stress, or seasonal changes. If the bald or thinning places don't seem to be bothering your dog, you are certain he has no fleas, he eats good quality food, and has not come into contact with any strange animals, it may be in both you and your dog's best interest to simply wait a few days to see if the hair begins to grow back in.

More Complex Cases

• When dog owners have tried all the simple solutions and that stubborn bald patch still won't grow back, a veterinarian's attention is a must. Often, hair loss that lasts despite treatment or the changing of the season is a symptom of a more serious underlying problem.

  Veterinarians have a variety of medical approaches to treating hair loss. They may prescribe steroids in oral, cream, or injected forms, or antibiotics to treat or prevent infections that can cause hair loss. They may do tests to determine the cause of hair loss, including blood, stool, and hair tests. Tell your vet everything you know about your pet, including heredity, medical history, what your dog eats, where he sleeps, what other animals he has been in contact with. Hair loss has many causes and the vet will need to rule out conditions before making a diagnosis.