Hair seems to appear everywhere when you have a furry friend at home, especially on clothes, sofas, beds, and carpets. Hair loss in dogs is a common issue and can depend on the time of year or result in bald patches. Just like humans, dogs shed hair naturally throughout the day and when grooming. A dog losing a lot of hair can be a normal (physiological) factor or indicate dermatopathies (skin diseases). Today, we’ll explore whether hair loss in dogs is normal and what the main causes are.
Physiological Hair Loss
Animals naturally shed fur, but the degree of shedding can vary with age, sex, and health. If your dog loses hair without other skin changes, it’s likely normal. Puppies are born with finer fur, and around four months, they transition to adult fur, which can lead to more intense shedding. Let’s explore how dogs shed their fur.
Hair Growth Cycle
The hair growth cycle helps the coat adapt to different seasons. Hair grows in cycles according to sunlight, with maximum growth in summer and minimal in winter. The cycle is divided into three phases: growth, rest, and regression. Different breeds and ages experience varying durations of each phase.
Long-haired breeds have a predominant growth phase, so the hair remains attached to the skin longer. Short-haired dogs have a rapid growth phase (anagen) and a predominant shedding phase (telogen), resulting in more hair loss around the house. In these cases, hair loss is not due to disease but is a physiological change where new hair replaces the old.
Health and Hair Loss in Dogs
Most cases of hair loss in dogs are related to dermatopathies, or skin diseases. These conditions cause hair to fall out, and until treated, the hair doesn’t grow back. Here are some common causes:
Ectoparasites
Ectoparasites, including fleas, ticks, lice, and mites (which cause mange), can lead to significant itching and harm to your pet. Symptoms include wounds and hair loss, with some mange types feeding on keratin in the fur, resulting in sparse or no fur in affected areas.
Fungi and Bacteria
Fungal infections (mycoses) and bacterial infections (pyoderma) are key reasons for hair loss in dogs. These microorganisms destroy hair and cause it to fall out.
Allergies
Allergies, such as atopic dermatitis, flea allergy dermatitis, and food hypersensitivity, cause intense itching. Scratching leads to hair loss, and yeast and bacteria can multiply on the altered skin, worsening the problem.
Nutritional Deficiency
A poor diet lacking essential vitamins and nutrients can cause hair loss in dogs. Ensuring a balanced diet is crucial for maintaining healthy fur.
Endocrine Diseases
Hormonal diseases like hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism affect hair growth. Symptoms include thin, sparse hair, usually on the sides of the back and tail, along with weight gain, increased thirst, and appetite.
How to Know if Hair Loss is Normal
To determine if your dog’s hair loss is due to a disease, observe the skin as a whole. Physiological changes are not accompanied by itching, wounds, or significant hair loss. Skin diseases typically present with symptoms such as:
- Areas with no hair
- Wounds (which may bleed)
- Bad odor
- Dandruff
- Skin darkening
- Thickened skin
- Itching
- Ear infections (otitis)
- Licking of paws or other areas
How to Prevent Hair Loss
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate hair loss in dogs, daily brushing can help reduce it by removing dead hair. In cases of illness, consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Supplements and vitamins to strengthen the hair may also be prescribed.
Understanding the reasons behind hair loss in dogs is essential for maintaining your pet’s health and well-being. While physiological hair shedding is a natural process influenced by factors like age, breed, and seasons, excessive hair loss may signal underlying health issues such as skin diseases, allergies, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances. Observing your dog’s skin and coat and seeking veterinary advice when needed can help address these issues promptly. Regular grooming and a balanced diet also play crucial roles in managing hair loss and keeping your furry friend comfortable and happy. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure your dog enjoys a healthy coat and a better quality of life.