Scratching, loss of hair and skin irritation in dogs have many causes from allergies to hypothyroidism.

Seasonal shedding occurs naturally but scratching and excessive hair loss can indicate parasites or certain diseases and should be treated before infection sets in. A few of the most common reasons for hair loss in dogs are discussed below.

Flea Allergy

Just one flea bite can cause a reaction in some dogs allergic to flea saliva. Fleas may be hard to detect, particularly on dark haired dogs, but when skin inflammation occurs around the base of the tail, fleas are a suspicion. Flea bites cause itching of the entire body and can lead to infection. The best treatment is prevention in the form of a high quality topically applied flea control.

Hot Spots

Hot spots are itchy areas which become raw, red, and oozing in just hours. They can begin with an insect bite or any minor skin abrasion that the dog licks or scratches. If licking and scratching can be prevented the problem may clear without treatment in a day or two but occasionally topical medications, antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs are needed.

Inhaled Allergies

Unlike humans who usually develop respiratory reactions, dogs suffer allergic itching from inhaled irritants such as pollen or chemicals. Severe scratching can cause infection. This genetic disease has no cure but can be managed. Although antihistamines are sometimes part of treatment, they are not as effective for dogs as for humans. Specific shampoos, anti-inflammatory topical ointments and, occasionally, steroids are helpful.

Food Allergies

Some dogs are allergic to certain proteins. Their immune system reacts by releasing histamines which cause itching over the entire body. In some cases, a dog can eat the same food for years and suddenly become allergic to it. Trial diets can help determine which ingredient is the problem. Diet changes may be helpful for awhile but the dog may eventually develop an allergy to the new food.

Dogs without food allergies can sometimes have dry, itchy skin and, for these also, a change of diet can help. Supplemental fish oils or high quality dog food with a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids improves the skin and coat. Oatmeal baths are soothing and help keep the skin moisturized.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a decreased production of thyroid hormone resulting in dry skin and hair loss. Dogs with hypothyroidism may also be overweight and lethargic. Thyroid function tests performed by your veterinarian help diagnose this problem which can be controlled with lifetime thyroid supplements.

Demodectic Mange

Demodex is caused by mites that live on the skin of all dogs but sometimes gets out of control in dogs with weak immune systems such as puppies, sick dogs, or stressed dogs. It rarely causes itching. Sometimes treatment helps but puppies often grow out of it and stressed dogs usually overcome it as they recover.

Sarcoptic Mange

Sarcopsis is caused by a mite that burrows into the dog’s skin, causing intense itching and scratching, often resulting in secondary infections. It is highly contagious to other dogs upon contact with the infected dog or its bedding. Infection in humans is usually short lived. Veterinarians may treat this troublesome mange with oral, injectable or topical medications.

Stress

Stress often results in a suppressed immune system as well as obsessive/compulsive behavior such as persistent licking and chewing. This may be best managed by relieving whatever is stressing the dog. Positive training, exercise and play often help. More immediate treatments may include obsessive/compulsive behavior drugs, spraying on bitter topicals to discourage chewing, or covering irritated skin.

Early diagnosis and treatment of hair loss will mean easier and less costly management with minimal discomfort for your dog.