Canine hair loss is an indication of an infection, allergy or other illness. The treatment for canine hair loss depends on the cause of the hair loss. If you notice hair loss, take the dog to the vet to have it tested for an infection, allergy or other illness, so that the proper treatment can be administered. Any of the following health issues may be causing your pooch to go bald:

Food Allergies
One of the most common causes of hair loss is a food allergy. A food allergy can cause hair loss anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the front legs, paws, belly and face. Grains and soy are common allergens. In dogs with allergies, these foods cause the skin to itch, and the dog will scratch the skin, removing the hair with the top layer of skin. A food allergy may also cause a yeast infection in the dog’s ears.

To treat the food allergy, determine which food is causing the problem. If you feed kibble, switch to a grain-free kibble. If you do not notice a change after two weeks, switch to a food with a different meat. For example, if the dog food is chicken-based, change to a beef-based kibble. If the label says “meat byproducts,” skip it because, even though the food is beef-based, there may be chicken mixed into the meat byproducts.

If you are feeding raw or cooked, eliminate all grains. If the problem does not improve after two weeks, start an elimination diet. Choose one protein (for example, pork), and feed the dog only pork. If the skin problem improves, you can try adding another protein, like chicken. If the problem worsens, stop the chicken. Let the dog’s body readjust, and then try beef.

Fleas
Some dogs are allergic to fleas. A dog with a flea allergy not only itches, but it may also lose its hair. Treat for fleas on the dog, in the house and in the yard. If you do not treat all areas your dog has access to, the fleas will continue to spread and attack your dog.

Mange
Mange, which is caused by mites and is infectious, also causes hair loss. Mange also causes crusty, red sores on the dog’s body. All living areas, including the yard, need to be treated for mange. The dog must be taken to the vet for a dip. Injections and canine medications may also be used, depending on the severity of the condition.

Tags: canine constipation, canine hair loss