Reasons Why Your Dog May Be Itching And Losing Hair

If your pooch is losing hair and starting to itch, then you're definitely not alone. It's incredibly common and can be quite distressing for your furry loved one. Your dog may lose hair and itch for many reasons, but here are a few of the most likely reasons and what we can do about it.

Allergic Reaction

Allergies are one of the most common reasons why dogs lose their hair. The most common allergic reactions are caused by flea bites, food allergies, and parasites. If you suspect your dog has an allergy to something in his environment or even something he eats, it's essential to take him to the vet for testing.

Hypothyroidism

In dogs with hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland becomes inflamed or shrinks, and the thyroid does not function properly. Hair loss caused by hypothyroidism can affect any body part and does not usually cause itching or redness. The condition most commonly affects middle-aged medium to large breeds and can be detected by a blood test administered by a veterinarian.

Mange

Mange is an inflammatory skin condition caused by mites found in hair follicles. Two types of mites cause it, which can be contagious and zoonotic (transmitted from one animal to another).  

If your dog has mange, you should take them to their vet as soon as possible for treatment. The vet will prescribe medication that will kill off the parasites in their system and then treat any remaining symptoms such as scratching at their coat and losing hair around their body parts like ears and eyes.

Acral Lick Dermatitis

Acral lick dermatitis is a skin disease that affects dogs. It's caused by excessive licking, which can lead to hair loss. It's a self-inflicted condition caused by allergies, infections, or nutritional deficiencies. If you think your dog might have acral lick dermatitis, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible so that they can make an appropriate diagnosis and recommend treatment options for your pet’s health issues.

Mites Or Parasites

Mites and parasites are a common cause of hair loss in dogs. Signs include small, itchy bumps on the skin, bald patches, and thickened skin. Treatment is available from your veterinarian, but if you're worried about how to prevent this from happening to your pet again—or spreading to other pets—you can take steps now:

• Clean up bedding regularly so that mites don't build up in their environment
• Use an all-natural treatment for fleas (available at health food stores) instead of pesticides; these products work by killing both fleas AND their eggs.

 

If your dog is itching and losing hair, it may be time for a trip to the vet. You can help your dog by having them checked out as soon as possible to rule out any serious underlying diseases.

 

Midlands Veterinary Practice Is The Perfect Place For Your Pet To Get Some TLC. 

We at Midlands Veterinary Practice are dedicated to providing you and your pet with the best possible care. Our team of friendly professionals is ready to provide you with any services you need, from wellness plans and dental care to boarding and radiology.

We know that your pets are important family members—and we want them to stay healthy, happy, and safe. Call us to get more information about our services or book an appointment for your pet.