Hair loss in dogs — also known as alopecia — is common and extremely noticeable. Hair loss can appear in a single spot, in patches or all over the body. If you have a dog losing hair at home, you may wonder why and if you need to seek a dog hair loss treatment. There are many things that can cause a dog to lose hair, but it’s likely that your pooch is going bald for one of five common reasons.
1. Seasonal Shedding
Sometimes, seemingly extreme dog hair loss is just normal shedding. Dogs lose fur when the individual hairs become old or damaged, or seasonally when the weather turns warm. Many dogs shed year-round. Some breeds, like huskies and Labradors, grow thick winter undercoats that they shed in the spring. Seasonal shedding is often reduced if you live in a moderate climate. If the shedding is out of control, brushing your dog a couple of times a week can remove and control excess hair.
2. Bacterial and Fungal Infections
Bacteria and yeast are normal inhabitants of canine skin, but sometimes they can grow out of control and create an infection. Bacterial or fungal yeast infections on the skin may cause hair loss, redness, itching and odor. Sometimes, bacterial infections cause pimple-like pustules.
