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Hair loss or 'Alopecia' is one of the most common problems faced by dogs. Learn more about loss of hair in dogs and its various causes.

Pets >> Dogs >> Hair Loss in Dogs

Hair Loss in Dogs

A common veterinary condition, hair loss (Alopecia) in dogs is sometimes considered a normal process of shedding. But if you notice tufts of pet-hair on your rug or see a continuous thinning of your pet's coat, don't ignore. Though a dog may suffer from hair loss for many reasons, in most cases, hair loss is a major symptom of various fatal diseases and infections. Sometimes, there might be symmetrical hair loss on both sides of the body and sometimes hair loss might be in an asymmetrical manner and occur in patches. Generally, symmetrical hair loss denotes that there is some kind of hormonal disorder in your pet, while patchy hair loss means that he is suffering from some kind of skin infection.

Causes of Hair Loss
It is very important for dog-owners to have an idea as to what exactly causes unhealthy shedding of hair in dogs. Enumerated below are a few major reasons that lead to such a condition.

'Callus' or persistent pressure (mostly in giant dogs)
'Cushing's Disease' or high level of corticosteroids
'Demodectic Mange' or infection caused by the Demodex mite
'Diabetes Mellitus' or diabetic conditions in dogs
'Folliculitis' or infection in the hair follicles
'Sarcoptic Mange' or infection caused by the Sarcoptes mite
Tail Gland Hyperplasia' or enlargement of the sebaceous gland of the tail
Allergic reactions to various substance like metals, chemicals, mites, pollens or certain food
Certain growth hormones lead to hair loss. They are witnessed during puberty and mostly in puppies
Excessive estrogen in the body or 'Hyperestrogenism'
Excessive stress (observed during pregnancy and nursing)
Fungal infections like ringworm
Insufficient hormone production by pituitary gland (Pituitary Dwarfisim)
Low estrogen level or 'Hypoestrogenism'
Low thyroid hormone production or 'Hypothyroidism'

What to Do
Whenever you notice any abnormal loss of hair in your pet, immediately get him diagnosed by a good veterinarian. With proper medication and treatment, you will get back your fluffy friend in no time.

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