When you see your dog losing hair, you may get worried. There are many reasons why dogs might lose their hair or fur. Hair loss can be normal or physiological, which is what we call "shedding," or it can be abnormal or pathological (health-related). 

So, let's first discuss signs of abnormal canine hairloss, and then we move forward to all other details.

Signs of Abnormal Hair Loss in Dogs

Sometimes it might be difficult to distinguish between normal shedding and actual hair loss. But alopecia or pathological hair loss has a few signs that might help you distinguish it as different from shedding.

The following are the most frequent signs of alopecia in pups:

• Visible patches of baldness

• Coat-thinning

• Itching accompanied by scratching

• Inflamed skin around hair loss

• Dry or rough skin surrounding bald areas

• Foul odour

• Bleeding around hair loss

• Dandruff

Visit your local veterinarian's clinic as soon as possible if you notice any of these signs in your dog or believe your pup is shedding more than usual.

Why Do Dogs Lose Their Hair?

There are various potential causes for your dog losing patches of hair. These include seasonal shedding, fleas, and hormonal fluctuations. Alopecia is another potential issue that needs to be taken into consideration.

Seasonal Shedding - Brushing your dog at least twice a week can assist in the removal and reduction of excess hair. Pups lose their fur when their hairs get old or damaged or if the temperature in their environment becomes too warm for them. 

Bacterial Infections - Skin illnesses caused by bacteria or fungi can also affect dogs like humans. Pyoderma is the medical name for a bacterial skin infection, particularly one that causes the skin to become inflamed and pus-filled. Candida infections occur when yeast on a pup's skin overgrows. Ringworm, called tinea, is a fungal infection that makes round spots of dry skin and broken hair.

Allergies - Dogs can develop allergies, causing itching skin and hair loss. Pups commonly have pollen, mould, dust mite, flea, and food allergies. Food allergies can only be diagnosed after eight weeks of testing.

Alopecia - Alopecia is a fairly common illness. It may refer to patches of thinning hair or areas where hair loss has occurred (bald spots). This is not the same thing as shedding, a natural process that occurs as a part of your pup's hair development and might vary from breed to breed.

How to Treat Hair Loss in Dogs?

Bringing your canine companion to the vet for an examination is the best way to treat hair loss, as this will help determine the root of the problem. The veterinarian will conduct a thorough history by asking you for details about the dog's symptoms.

Medication - If your dog has Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism, medication may be suggested to treat hair loss. There are situations in which treating the underlying medical condition is all that is required to stop hair loss.

Shampoos -There are several different shampoos and other grooming items available that might be of assistance to dogs that are experiencing hair loss. In cases of skin illnesses or allergies, you may need to use medicated shampoos. The doctor may suggest a moisturizing shampoo if the pup's skin is scratchy or dry.

Supplements - First and foremost, no supplement can stop shedding completely. Shedding is perfectly normal among healthy dogs; they are simply dropping their old hair to make way for the new batch as part of their natural hair growth cycle. And no supplement can change this. However, there is evidence that nutritional supplements can help address deficiencies and minimise general shedding. They can be helpful to minimise shedding by keeping your dog's coat generally strong and healthy

Omega 3 (EPA & DHA) & Salmon can be very beneficial for dogs, especially when it comes to promoting healthy skin and hair.

Aside from Omega 3, studies suggest that minerals like zinc and vitamin C, E and biotin (B7) can help improve a dog’s skin and hair. 

If you want to reduce your dog's excessive shedding, save your sofa and turn back to clock to a time your black jeans and t-shirts weren't drowning in hair, check out these Skin & Coat Omega Treats, packed with Salmon Oil, EPA, DHA, Zinc, Biotion & MUCH more.