Causes Of Hair Loss In Dogs

Hair loss is a common problem in animals. Dogs suffer from hair loss as much as other mammals and the causes of hair loss in dogs may bear a striking resemblance to those in other mammals, even with humans. The cause of female hair loss and that of male dogs' hair loss are basically the same for all genders.

Allergies And Itch

One of the many causes of hair loss in dogs are allergic reactions that a particular dog or breed of dog may have to certain foods, hygiene products and other cosmetics that the dog may be exposed to. There are so many different kinds of allergens that may affect certain dogs and dog breeds and to be able to fully know what the allergens may be, a patch test should be done on the dog.

Owners should be vigilant regarding what the causes of hair loss are because allergens can range from carpet cleaners, metals, plants and many others. Allergens that are not taken in or ingested by the dog may need multiple exposures before the allergy fully manifests itself. This cause of hair loss when caused by foods or medications which are taken in by the canine can result to an extended time of manifestation for the reaction or also an immediate manifestation. Immediate manifestations are better since the allergens are easier to spot this way. Other allergen causes of hair loss in dogs can cause minor loss of hair that it may not be immediately clear that the dog is suffering from hair loss.

The allergic reaction can also cause the dog to itch, which can directly be one of the causes of hair loss. Itchy skin can have numerous reasons and causes. As a cause of hair loss, itchiness or itchy skin can be caused by external parasites such as ticks or fleas. These parasites suck blood from mammals and consequentially leave itchy bite marks. As causes of hair loss, parasites need to be dealt with before hair growth can be encouraged. Not all dogs have parasites as causes of hair loss since not all dogs have the same reaction to parasite bites.

Inhalants can also be the causes of hair loss for some canines. Some molds, pollens and other airborne allergens can be the causes of hair loss. Some household cleansers, soaps and bleaches can basically be the cause of the dog experiencing hair loss. Some dogs are more prone to allergic reactions than others which is why it is best to be vigilant regarding what the dog is exposed to.