Hair loss in dogs can be a cause for concern for many owners. However, understanding why it happens and how to manage it properly can make a big difference to the health and happiness of our animals.
In this guide, we tell you the possible reasons behind hair loss , as well as tips to prevent it and treatments that can help your furry friend to have a beautiful and healthy coat. We have to understand that hair loss is a natural process in the fur and skin of our furry friends.
Hair loss in puppies
During the first few months of life, between 3 and 10 months , it is common for puppies to experience shedding of their fur. We go from having softer, finer fur as puppies to thicker fur as adults. This natural process is part of your little friend’s development, but it is important to be alert to any signs of excessive hair loss .
If you notice abnormal hair loss, it may be an indication that your puppy’s diet needs to be changed. At this stage, puppies are still in the process of adapting to their nutritional needs. Dietary changes can trigger reactions in their body, including hair loss. Therefore, it is essential to provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and breed. A grain-free diet is the most suitable for caring for dogs’ skin and hair, since many cereals can cause allergies and intolerances.
It is essential to distinguish whether your puppy’s hair loss is part of its natural growth or whether it may be related to a more serious illness. Observe any changes in your puppy’s behavior and consult a veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.
Hair loss in short-haired dogs
Contrary to popular belief, short-coated dogs also experience hair loss, especially during shedding season. Breeds such as the Dalmatian, Boxer, Beagle, Shar Pei, and English Bulldog are prone to shedding during this period.
If you want to learn more about how to care for your short-haired furry friend, we invite you to take a look at our post “ Short-haired dogs: care and maintenance ”.
Hair loss in long-haired dogs
Although hair loss is commonly associated with long-haired breeds, there are dogs with this type of coat that hardly shed. Breeds such as the English Shepherd, Lhasa Apso, Bobtail, Komondor, Shi Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier are examples of this.
Although these breeds do not shed much hair, it is important not to neglect the health of their coat. It is essential to regularly check their coat for spots, bald spots or other signs of skin problems or parasites that may affect their health. Likewise, a weekly brushing will allow us to keep the skin in perfect condition to nourish the hair and prevent it from drying out.
Why is my dog’s hair falling out?
The causes of excessive hair loss in dogs are very varied.
It is important to distinguish whether your dog’s hair loss is part of a natural process, such as shedding, or whether there are underlying causes that require specialized attention, so we recommend that you take your pet to the vet if you notice that his hair is falling out excessively .
Shedding of hair
One of the main causes of hair loss in dogs is shedding . This natural process involves the removal of hair that needs to be renewed to make way for the growth of new hair adapted to seasonal conditions.
Although it may seem alarming to see a considerable amount of hair in your home during this period, it is important to understand that it is part of your furry friend’s natural cycle.
We recommend that you take a look at our next post to learn everything about hair shedding in dogs : what it is, when it happens and what to do.
Pathological reasons
There are also pathological reasons why your dog’s hair falls out, and they have to do with diseases that affect the skin or the presence of parasites:
- Scabies : A skin disease caused by mites that causes itching, redness and hair loss.
- Ringworm: A fungal infection that results in skin lesions and hair loss in the affected areas.
- Canine pyoderma : A bacterial infection that can arise due to a weakened immune system, causing intense itching, sores and hair loss.
- Dermatitis : An allergic reaction that affects the skin and can manifest with hair loss, itching and redness.
- Parasites : Both internal parasites , such as intestinal worms, and external parasites , such as fleas, ticks and mites, can affect your dog’s health and contribute to hair loss.
It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions to diagnose and treat any disease that may be causing hair loss in your dog.
Stress
When a dog experiences stress, stress hormones such as cortisol are released, which can negatively affect the health of the skin and coat. This can lead to excessive hair loss. In addition, stress can induce compulsive licking or scratching behaviors, further exacerbating the hair loss problem. Find out more about the signs of stress in dogs and how to treat it here.
Poor nutrition
Poor nutrition can cause hair loss in dogs just like it does in humans. If your dog doesn’t get the right nutrients in his diet, his coat can become weak and prone to falling out.
Inappropriate hygiene products
Do you use specific products for your dog’s hygiene? It may be that the product you use for its hygiene is causing skin allergies, irritation or some kind of reaction. You should stop using it and replace it with a new product. At Tiendanimal we have a wide range of dog shampoos and other hair care products that will be perfect for its hygiene and cleaning.
Pregnancy in dogs
It is interesting to know that during pregnancy , some dogs may experience greater hair loss than usual. However, you should not be alarmed if you notice this change in your furry friend. Still, as always, your vet will be the best person to advise you on this matter. For more information, don’t miss our complete guide on birth and pregnancy in dogs .
Treatment for hair loss in dogs
If your dog is experiencing hair loss due to shedding, at our Tiendanimal Beauty Salon, our grooming specialists can help you to restore the health of its coat and reduce the amount of hair that falls out. In addition, if it has alopecia problems , we offer specific ozone therapy for this problem.
However, if the hair loss is not due to shedding or is excessive , it is essential to take your dog to the vet . Only a professional will be able to identify the underlying cause and recommend the best solution to resolve the problem.
How to prevent hair loss in dogs?
As we have just told you, hair loss in dogs can have various causes, so the solution will depend on the specific situation of your furry friend. Here are some general tips that could help:
- Balanced diet : Provide your dog with a complete and balanced diet. Choose quality foods that provide the necessary nutrients to maintain healthy skin and coat. Grain Free is preferred.
- Regular brushing: This helps remove undercoat and facilitate shedding, distribute the natural oils in their skin and stimulate blood circulation, which promotes a stronger and shinier coat. Here is this post so you know how to brush a dog according to its hair type .
Foods to prevent hair loss in dogs
Did you know that the food you give your dog can greatly help its coat? Omega 3 acid is a very important compound that benefits overall health and coat in particular.
On the market, you will find a wide range of Omega 3-enriched feeds , specifically designed to help prevent hair loss in dogs. There are also special snacks that help care for dogs’ fur.
In summary, hair loss in dogs can be a multifaceted problem with a variety of causes and solutions. By paying attention to your faithful companion’s overall health and well-being, as well as using the right products and a balanced diet, you can
help keep their coat healthy. And remember, a consultation with a veterinarian is essential for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
