If your dog gets hair, it becomes thin, hairless areas appear on the body, this can be a cause for concern. But do not panic. Thinning hair in puppies, hair loss occurs often due to various reasons. Consider the causes of hair loss and how to deal with it.
Why will the hair fall in dogs?
There are 2 groups of causes - non-hormonal and hormonal, which are not associated with a dysfunction of the endocrine glands. Let's pay attention to how the hair falls out. If the hair falls symmetrically, then it is because of hormonal disorders. If asymmetric hair loss is observed, then the cause is different.
Hormonal diseases that are accompanied by loss of hair
Cushing's syndrome. This is a symmetrical hair loss in the body of the dog, it is caused by an overabundance of the hormone cortisol. Other symptoms include weight gain, excessive urination and thirst. The abdomen is slightly saggy, enlarged. Sometimes this condition develops due to the use of steroid drugs.
Because of the disruption of the production of growth hormone, hair falls symmetrically on both sides, mainly in males. Occurs during puberty and is characteristic for such breeds as the Dutch wolf pomeranian, poodle, boxer, airedale terrier, chow-chow.
Hyperestrogenism occurs when males and females have an excess of estrogens. Perhaps symmetrical bilateral hair loss around the genitals and in the perineum.
Hypoestrogenism is observed in sterilized adult females. The skin becomes soft and smooth, like that of a baby. Thinning is wiped all over the body, hair growth is reduced.
Hypothyroidism is characterized by a deficiency of thyroid hormone. A dog suffering from this disease becomes lethargic, gaining weight, it is susceptible to infections, it has brittle, dry hair, there are patches of hair loss. This is a common cause of hair loss without itching. Wool falls in the area of the upper part of the tail, hips, back, on the sides of the body, chest, neck.
Other diseases that lead to hair loss in dogs
Moulting
Many puppies shed from 3 months to 10 months, it depends on the type of wool, breed and size. In some breeds of dogs, in comparison with other breeds, molting is extreme, abundant. An example of this are oranges: because of uneven hair loss, they become spotted during moult. Adult dogs moult seasonally, twice a year. During moulting, care and regular cleaning are of great importance. In addition, females shed after birth and during the sexual cycle. Strong hair loss can occur in dogs during illness, after surgery, during periods of severe stress, or under other circumstances that cause anxiety. Frequent bathing of the puppy, if irritants are used, can cause peeling and dry skin, thinning of the hair.
Allergies in dogs
In fact, among dogs, allergy is widespread. Allergic reactions develop into different ingredients in treats or feed. But most often the allergy develops when a dog or puppy is given something unusual or new.
Ringworm is a fungal infection. Covered with crust, scaly, rounded areas, up to 50 mm in diameter. In the center of such formations, hair loss with a red ring at the end can be observed.
Scabies are a disease caused by tiny mites. There are 2 types of scabies - demodectic and sarcoptic infections. Most often demodicosis occurs in young dogs, when puppies have hair loss, they are examined for if they have demodex pliers. In addition, the dog may have a slight itch. Dogs with sarcoptosis experience discomfort and severe itching. As a result of scratching hair loss can be extensive. Only a special study will help determine which ticks the dog has.
If you are concerned about hair loss from your pet, and you know that this is not a moult, it will be better to contact a veterinarian. Allergies, any disease should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. It will be cheaper for you and better for the dog, than you will be guided by the principle, can itself pass.