Senior dogs may start losing hair because of illness, such as: Infections of the hair follicle. Mange mites. Ringworm and other fungal infections.
Dogs lose fur when the individual hairs become old or damaged, or seasonally when the weather turns warm. Many dogs shed year-round. Some breeds, like huskies and Labradors, grow thick winter undercoats that they shed in the spring. Seasonal shedding is often reduced if you live in a moderate climate.
A very common cause of hair loss in dogs is an infestation by parasites such as mites, lice or fleas. In particular, if your dog is losing hair around its neck and tail, there's a high chance it's due to fleas.
Itchy skin and hair loss are two of the biggest indicators that your dog has an allergy. They could be allergic to certain ingredients in their food or environmental factors like pollen or dust mites. Your vet can conduct tests to determine whether your dog has food or environmental allergies.
Common causes of hair loss in dogs A very common cause of hair loss in dogs is an infestation by parasites such as mites, lice or fleas. In particular, if your dog is losing hair around its neck and tail, there's a high chance it's due to fleas.
Allergies Dogs can develop allergies just like humans, and some of the most common signs are itchy skin and hair loss. The most common allergies in dogs are environmental allergies to irritants like pollen, mold and dust mites, flea allergies and food allergies.
When your Labradoodle first starts losing their puppy coat, you'll notice wisps and then clumps of shed hair. The puppy coat has to be completely shed out to allow the adult coat to grow in. But, the coat won't shed out all at once. That would leave your Labradoodle defenseless against pests, the elements, and injury.
Dog loss of appetite often is one of the initial indications that your dog isn't feeling his best. However, at some point, the majority of older dogs start to consume less food. It's a natural byproduct of aging, in which the canine's food intake decreases as their metabolism starts slowing down.
A dog losing hair on their tail may be the result of a condition called atopy (environmental allergies) or food allergies. Dogs with these types of allergies may benefit from a therapeutic food and your veterinarian can provide this specific nutritional recommendation when needed.
Excessive shedding can be caused by stress, poor nutrition, pregnancy, lactation or another underlying medical condition. If you think your dog is shedding more than normal or if he is developing bald patches, schedule an appointment with your vet.
There are many types of parasites and mites that can cause hair loss on the back. Examples are mange (from mites), fleas, ringworm, chiggers, and mosquitos. Another cause of hair loss is an allergic reaction to food, medication, shampoo, or just about anything.
Loss of hair, also known as alopecia, is a common sign of poor skin health in dogs. Infections, parasites and immune disorders can damage hair follicles on the paws and legs, leading to patches of baldness.