Is Your Dog Losing Hair? Canine Baldness Tips

It’s totally normal for your pup to shed. Longtime dog owners are easily identified by the stray fur on their jackets or furniture. However, there’s a big difference between natural, healthy shedding and actual hair loss. Sudden or extreme hair loss in dogs is usually indicative of an underlying health problem; if you notice patches of baldness on your pup you should speak with your veterinarian immediately to figure out what’s going on. Allergies, parasites, and infections can all cause hair loss. Food, environmental, and parasitic allergies are among the most common causes of hair loss among dogs. Certain diseases and illnesses list hair loss as a symptom; Cushing’s disease, ringworm infections, and mites can be the root cause for hair loss. It’s also worth noting that genetics play a role in your pup’s fur patterns. Whippets, Chihuahuas, Italian greyhounds, and Dachshunds often develop bald spots as completely natural parts of maturing from puppy to adult dog. As with all health issues, the absolute best plan is bringing the dog in for a professional examination by a trusted veterinarian who can help diagnose the problem. Minor problems are easily solved and major problems are better caught early. In some cases, bald spots will recover after the primary cause is resolved. This is often the case with mites and mange.