My Dog has Alopecia. What should I do?

As a dog breeder with over 35 years of experience, I have seen many cases of alopecia in dogs. This condition can be worrying for pet owners, but it is important to remember that there are effective treatment options available. In this educational blog, I will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosing, treatment, and prevention of alopecia in dogs.

What is Alopecia?

Alopecia is a medical condition characterized by abnormal hair loss or baldness in dogs. It can manifest as either partial or total dog hair loss across the body and is caused by the body attacking its own hair follicles. Bald patches may appear in a symmetrical or non-symmetrical pattern, depending on the specific case. It's important to note that alopecia is not limited to dogs, as it can also affect humans. While some instances of alopecia can be temporary and improve with treatment, others may be permanent. While the condition is not life-threatening, it can cause discomfort and itching for the dog.

Although bald patches on the skin can be unsightly, it's important to remember that dogs can live normally with or without all of their hair. However, it is crucial to address any discomfort your pet may be experiencing by seeking treatment to relieve their itching.

Causes of Alopecia in Dogs

There are different types of alopecia and many possible causes of this disease, including:

1. Genetics: Some breeds of dogs are more prone to alopecia than others. For example, the Chinese Crested, the Chihuahua, and the Greyhound are all breeds that are predisposed to hair loss. You should note that only 2% of all alopecia cases are caused by genetics, others are caused by environment.
2. Hormonal Imbalances in dogs: Hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism, can cause hair loss in dogs.
3. Allergies in dogs: Allergies to food, fleas, or environmental allergens can cause hair loss in dogs.
4. Bacterial and Fungal Infections: Infections of the skin or hair follicles can lead to hair loss in dogs.
5. Parasites: External parasites, such as mites, ticks, and lice, can cause hair loss in dogs.
6. Improper care: Irregular brushing can lead to alopecia in dogs because it can cause dead hair to accumulate and clog hair follicles, preventing new hair growth and eventually leading to hair loss.
7. Immune system disorders in dogs: Disorders of the immune system, such as lupus and pemphigus, can lead to hair loss in dogs.
8. Nutritional deficiencies in dogs: A poor diet or nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of essential fatty acids, can also cause hair loss in dogs.
9. Stress and anxiety in dogs: Just like in humans, stress and anxiety can take a toll on a dog's health and cause hair loss. Stressful events such as moving, changes in routine, or the loss of a loved one can trigger hair loss in dogs.

Symptoms of Alopecia in Dogs

The symptoms of alopecia in dogs can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:

1. Patchy or generalized hair loss
2. Redness or inflammation of the skin
3. Scabs or crusts on the skin
4. Itching or scratching
5. Thickening or darkening of the skin

Diagnosing Alopecia in Dogs

If you suspect that your dog has alopecia, you should take them to the veterinarian for a diagnosis. The vet will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend blood tests or skin scrapings to identify the underlying cause of the hair loss.

Treatment for Alopecia in Dogs

The treatment for alopecia in dogs depends on the underlying cause of the hair loss. Typically, skin treatment should be the first step, as it can help to stimulate hair growth. I recommend the following recipe for skin treatment:

1. Begin by combing the coat thoroughly, as this can activate the blood circulation of the skin and follicles.
2. Prepare a mixture that includes (for a dog that weights up to 10 lbs.):

• 30 drops of Tauro Pro Line Elixir No. 3
• 1 oz of warm water (98-100 °F)
• 1 oz of Tauro Pro Line Pure Mist alkaline water

3. Blend everything together until you get a smooth texture.
4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and cover the hair roots and skin, massaging it well.
5. Wrap your pet in cling wrap (or a plastic bag with the pet's head protruding) and wrap them in a warm towel.
6. Bathe your pet with the Tauro Pro Line 3-Step bathing system, using the Tauro Pro Line Fur Growth shampoo, conditioner, and spray.

Repeat this procedure every 5-7 days for 8 weeks. Once the skin has healed and turned to light pink instead of black, grey, or brown, you can begin the procedure for hair regrowth:

1. Comb the coat very well to activate the blood circulation of the skin and follicles.
2. Prepare a mixture that includes (for a dog that weights up to 10 lbs.):

• 30 drops of Tauro Pro Line Elixir No. 4
• 1 oz of warm water (98-100 °F)
• 1 oz of Tauro Pro Line Pure Mist alkaline water

3. Blend everything together until you get a smooth texture.
4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and cover the hair roots and skin, massaging it well.
5. Wrap your pet in cling wrap (or a plastic bag with the pet's head protruding) and wrap them in a warm towel.
6. Bathe your pet with the Tauro Pro Line 3-Step bathing system, using the Tauro Pro Line Fur Growth shampoo, conditioner, and spray.

If the hair loss is due to hormonal imbalances, the veterinarian may recommend hormone replacement therapy. In cases where allergies are the cause, identifying and removing the allergen from the dog's environment may be necessary. Parasite infestations can be treated with appropriate medication, such as MicroZeoGen detoxifying supplement. 

For some dogs, hair regrowth may not be possible. However, there are options such as wigs or vests that can help protect the skin from sunburn or abrasions. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be an option.

Preventing Alopecia in Dogs

While not all cases of alopecia can be prevented, there are steps you can take to help reduce the risk of hair loss in your dog. These include:

• Regular dog grooming: Brushing your dog's coat regularly, especially in coat-changing season, can help to remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles that can lead to hair loss.
• Proper nutrition: Feeding your dog a balanced diet that contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals can help to keep their skin and coat healthy.
• Veterinary care: Taking your dog to the vet for regular check-ups can help to identify and treat any health problems before they become serious.
• Parasites prevention: Parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites can cause various health issues, including hair loss. Your vet can recommend suitable preventive measures, such as medications or topical treatments, to keep your dog protected from parasites and maintain their overall health.

Conclusion

Alopecia in dogs can be a distressing condition for pet owners to deal with. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage the symptoms and even promote hair regrowth in some cases. As a dog breeder with extensive experience, I have seen many dogs successfully treated for alopecia. It is important to remember that the underlying cause of alopecia must be identified before treatment can begin. This is why it is so important to take your dog to a professional if you suspect that they have alopecia. A thorough physical examination, along with blood tests or skin scrapings, can help to determine the cause of hair loss.

Once the underlying cause of alopecia has been identified, treatment can begin. In most cases, this will involve addressing any skin conditions or infections that may be contributing to hair loss. This can include detoxifying supplements and hair growth-stimulating coat care products. 

Tell me about your pet’s skin or coat problems here and I will prepare a personal treatment plan for FREE!

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