Caring for a dog requires patience, time, effort, and, yes, it also takes money. Dog parents the world over all agree on one thing: it’s worth it to see your dog happy and healthy. So, it’s only natural to worry when you discover a bald patch on your beloved pooch. What does it mean when your pup starts losing hair? How worried should you be if you find a bald spot on your dog’s tail? We’ll take a deep dive into what dog hair loss means, what you can do to treat it, and when you should see the vet. Show
Contents
 Depending on your dog’s breed, they may shed a little, or they may shed a lot. However, if you’ve recently noticed your pooch shedding more than usual, it could be a sign that something is amiss. Here are some of the most common causes of hair loss in dogs. AllergiesYou’re not alone if you dread spring because of seasonal allergies. But did you know that your dog can also suffer from allergies? Like us, our four-legged friends can experience allergic reactions due to environmental factors (dust mites, pollen, and mold are common allergens), food allergies, and chemical allergies. If you’ve noticed dryness, redness, or hair loss after switching your pup to a scented shampoo, it’s probably a good sign that they’re allergic. Similarly, if your dog sneezes and experiences hair loss at certain times of the year, they most likely have seasonal allergies. Fungal, bacterial, and parasitic infections can all cause hair loss. Because some infections require specific treatments, it’s best to see your vet if you think your pooch may have an infection. In addition to hair loss, your pup may emit a strange odor, suffer from thickened skin, have pustules, or scratch incessantly. Cushing’s diseaseIf your pup is experiencing hair loss coupled with lethargy, increased urination, thirst, and appetite, they may have Cushing’s disease. Caused by an overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands, Cushing’s disease can become a life-threatening endocrine problem if left unchecked. You should take your dog to the vet as quickly as possible if you suspect they have Cushing’s disease. Pressure soresJust like human senior citizens, older pups tend to spend a lot of time lazing about in their favorite spot. While our senior buddies have totally earned the right to rest and relax, sometimes living a sedentary lifestyle leads to pressure sores. As the name would suggest, a pressure sore is caused by an uneven distribution of body weight (i.e. excess pressure) on certain spots on the body, causing hair loss and open wounds. Itching, swelling, rashes, and hives are all common allergic reactions to insect bites, but your pup may also experience hair loss. While some dogs are born with sensitivities to certain insects, others develop sensitivities later on in life. Whichever the case may be, you (and your pup) will feel a whole lot better after you consult your veterinarian. In some cases, you can treat your dog’s reaction at home, but they may need additional treatment. If you notice symptoms of facial swelling, severe itching, widespread redness, or breathing difficulty, take your dog to the vet immediately. Your pooch could be suffering from anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction that requires prompt veterinary care. What does a bald patch mean?Alopecia, the official term for partial or complete baldness in an area where hair growth is standard, typically occurs on a dog’s head, ears, stomach, and back. When bald spots are concentrated at your pup’s tail, it’s usually a sign that they’re suffering from an underlying health condition as opposed to a pressure sore. If your pup is losing tail hair, it could be a sign they have Cushing’s disease. But don’t panic just yet; there are a couple of other reasons your pooch might have a bald spot on their tail. Does your dog suffer from anxiety? Whether your fur baby hides in the closet during thunderstorms or suffers from separation anxiety when you leave the house, bald patches on your dog’s tail don’t always mean they have a physical health problem. Dogs who suffer from anxiety and depression are inclined to compulsive behaviors, such as incessant barking or tail chewing. If your dog’s tail is constantly damp and disheveled, it’s highly likely they’ve been chewing on it while you’re away. Flea infestationIs your otherwise calm dog suddenly biting at himself? Have you noticed tiny brown flecks in their coat? It sounds like fleas are the likely culprit. We recommend taking your pooch to the vet for a flea treatment, having pest control tackle your yard, and deep-cleaning your house to kill these tenacious pests. Your dog is a member of the family, and they depend on you to be their voice when they feel under the weather. It’s possible that your dog’s bald patches are due to a minor food allergy, but it could also be an indication of a major health condition. While we want to avoid alarming you, we always recommend a trip to the vet if you notice any unusual symptoms. (Your pooch is probably due for a visit anyway.) Editors' Recommendations
(Picture Credit: Getty Images) Alopecia in dogs refers to hair loss that can be partial or complete, but it also refers to deficiencies in a dog’s coat or a failure to grow hair at all. While dogs normally shed and may even have patchy coats as the seasons change, alopecia is usually very noticeable. The condition is often a symptom of other underlying issues, though it can occur on its own and sometimes has no known causes at all. You should see your veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis and begin treatment. Alopecia can affect a dog’s immune system, lymphatic system, endocrine system, and skin, which is why it’s important to form a treatment plan as soon as possible. Here’s what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for alopecia in dogs. Symptoms Of Alopecia In Dogs(Picture Credit: Getty Images) The symptoms of alopecia appear in a dog’s coat. Hair loss can be gradual and appear over time, or it can be acute, resulting in sudden bald patches and other symptoms. Here are several signs of alopecia that might appear in dogs:
Causes Of Alopecia In Dogs(Picture Credit: Getty Images) Many diseases, infections, and conditions can cause alopecia in dogs. One of the most common is mange, a condition caused by mites. It can lead to extreme hair loss and skin crusting. If left untreated, the skin can become almost stone-like. Cushing’s disease, a condition where the body overproduces steroid hormones, can cause hair loss, as well. Infections of ringworm or bacteria can cause alopecia. Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection. It presents as circular patches of hair loss with lesions, inflammation, and crusting. These lesions sometimes clear up on their own, but it’s usually best to seek treatment with antifungal shampoo and medication. It can lead to secondary infections, too. Bacterial infections can also be a source of alopecia, and it’s usually necessary to treat them with antibiotics. Bald patches may result from allergies. Dogs can be allergic to almost any substance, but flea bites are a common source of allergic reactions. These reactions often lead to dogs chewing and scratching their skin, which can damage their coats. Some breeds are genetically predisposed to developing bald spots. This hereditary condition is mostly harmless, and most dog parents just live with it rather than treat it. Breeds that are predisposed include Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, Greyhounds, and Whippets. Pressure sores can form, especially near elbows and places where your dog puts pressure when they lie on hard surfaces. This can cause calluses that sometimes crack and bleed. Rashes and hives can form from contact with plants, chemicals, insect bites or stings, and even some medications. Other causes of alopecia in dogs include the following:
Treatments For Alopecia In Dogs(Picture Credit: Getty Images) Treatment for alopecia in dogs can vary a lot depending on the cause of the condition. You’ll need to see your vet to determine the cause of alopecia in your dog. Antibiotics, antifungals, and steroids are often used topically or orally to treat skin conditions and inflammation. Antihistamines can be used for allergic reactions. Medicated shampoos can treat a number of infections, especially mange. Flea and tick prevention helps reduce alopecia caused by itchiness, and insulin therapy is the treatment for diabetes. Thyroid medication and hormone therapy can be used to correct some thyroid problems. Surgery may be needed to remove tumors or skin cancer. If alopecia is a result of your dog chewing and licking, you may need an Elizabethan collar to stop the behavior. There are also a number of supplements that you can add to your dog’s diet that improve coat health. Fish oil, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E can help with dry skin and certain skin infections, and they keep fur shiny and in good shape. However, you should always follow your veterinarian’s instructions. Does your dog suffer from alopecia? How do you treat it? Let us know in the comments below! Categories: Dog Health |
Why does my dog have a chunk of hair missing?
Pos Terkait
Copyright © 2024 idkuu.com Inc.
