Why is my shih tzu losing hair

Types of Dog Hair Loss Hair loss can often be diagnosed according to different patterns. The most common patterns of hair loss in dogs include: All-over thinning of hair Thinning over the back and sides of the body Thinning over the ears Thinning along the neck Thinning under the belly Complete hair loss along the sides Circular bald patches Baldness on the abdomen Patches of baldness on the legs Balding over the scrotum at the back of the hind legs Hair loss is just one symptom of a medical problem; it can also be accompanied by changes in behavior or irritability, and your dog may become restless or lethargic.

Causes of Hair Loss in Dogs A list of common causes of hair loss in dogs include: Allergic or contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction can cause cause skin irritation and hair loss. Common allergies include medication, pollen, dust, chemicals, fragrances and various plants. Bacterial infection: When hair loss is caused by bacterial infection, it can usually be traced to a secondary symptom related to a primary condition allergic or parasitic reaction.

Demodectic mange: Caused by Demodex mites, this type of mange can result in hair loss, scaling, redness, ulcers and sometimes darkening of the skin.

Flea allergy dermatitis: Some dogs develop an allergic reaction to flea bites which may result in extreme itching, redness, hair loss and skin scales. Treatment Options Treatment options for hair loss vary depending on the cause of the problem.

The lauric acid in coconut oil has been shown to keep hair healthier than other fatty acids. Male pattern baldness shows up in a telltale shape: a receding hairline with thinning strands around the crown of your head. Hair will not grow back. A good stainless steel comb is a must for grooming your Shih Tzu. Not only will you use one each time you brush to assure that all the tangles are removed, you can also use one to remove mats.

To use a steel comb to remove mats, from matted hair slide the end of the comb through the center of the mat to break it apart. Allergies are a frequent cause of hair loss in dogs. An infestation with parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites scabies, mange is another source canine alopecia. Parasites are the most common cause of hair loss, mange is a common cause of alopecia, this is an affection caused by Demodex species, Fleas are also responsible for a big disturbance in dogs, they are responsible for itch in the neck and in ears which may lead to alopecia in these regions.

Hypothroidia is another cause of hair loss, thyroid hormones that are necessary for hair to grow are not sufficiently produced, this result in hair loss. Like all other skin problems, Hair loss is a serious condition that needs to be treated as early as possible before any complications, Your veterinarian will give you a treatment that will help treat the underlying cause, topical antibiotics, ointments and a special shampoo may be prescribed.

It is important to follow the instructions and the advice of the vet about bath, ointments, special shampoos to use. More Shih Tzu Related Awesomeness. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Leave this field empty. Disclaimer We shihtzuexpert.