Canine alopecia means skin hair loss. It may be partial or complete hair loss in dogs. Partial hair loss is often localized to certain areas of the dog’s body. Alopecia it is not a disease by itself, but a syndrome that may involve several conditions as allergies, contact dermatitis, atopy, callus, mages, hormonal imbalances, etc.
Symptoms of Canine Alopecia
- The primary is hair loss (partial or over the entire body)
- Red, inflamed skin
- Itching
Canine Flank Alopecia
- Symmetrical hair loss
- Hair loss prominent on the flank and the back of the body
- Skin that’s darker in appearance
- A stop in hair growth at intervals
Diagnose
The success in the treatment will depend on the accuracy of diagnose. The doctor will perform a profound anamnesis, physical exam, trichogram (hair analysis), fungal and bacterial culture and maybe a skin biopsy will be necessary.
Alopecia Treatment
- If alopecia is related to pruitus, it will requires steroids as Prednisone or Prednisolone. They will stop pruritis and allow the skin to heal.
- If infections are presented, antibiotic medication will also be necessary. The most used are Amoxi Drops, Baytril, Cephalexin and Clavamox Drops.
- Frequent bath with certain shampoos (antipruitic and antiseptic) might bring relief from the symptoms of canine hair loss. They may be Allergroom Shampoo, Hexadene Flush, Ketochlor Shampoo and Pyoben Shampoo.
- If alopecia is related with parasites, medications as Frontline Plus Dog and Advantage Multi or K9 Advantix.
- Supplements will also help to heal the skin and reduce the symptoms. The omega 3 fatty acids have shown great results and are been widely used for skin conditions. EFA-Caps HP high potency, and Welactin Softgel Capsulesare potent supplements used with this purpose.
Alopecia should not be left untreated or took for granted. As it may be the result of one or more conditions your dog is suffering, the dog must be taken to the vet as soon as the symptoms began.