Alopecia is the scientific name for the partial or complete absence of hair from areas of the body where it normally grows. Hair thinning and general loss of fur on your pet is a common reason for an owner to seek help from their veterinarian. Alopecia is not the same thing as shedding, which is a natural and normal process. There are several reasons why alopecia occurs and these need to be investigated if the problem is to be resolved. Examples of problems causing bald spots include parasites, allergies, autoimmune diseases and behavioral issues.  Each underlying problem may present hair loss in different locations on the body or in different patterns, so a consultation with a veterinarian is a good idea.

Signs of Alopecia and Bald Spots

Remember, alopecia is a sign of a problem, not a specific diagnosis. Identifying the underlying cause is therefore crucial for effective treatment. Should you observe any of the following signs in your dog, seek veterinary attention promptly, as investigation and further tests may be required to treat or correct any problems and imbalances.

The veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests, such as parasite checks, hair plucks, skin scrapes, blood tests and skin biopsies to determine the cause of the alopecia and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

What to Do About My Dog’s Bald Spots

If you have noticed a simple bald spot on your dog or you find a small patch of missing hair that appears to be growing in size, it can be quite worrisome. A bald spot on your dog may indicate an underlying condition, but this condition isn’t necessarily serious in nature. A consultation with your vet is always a good place to start.

Some causes of alopecia are more serious than others, so further investigation by your veterinarian may be needed to work out exactly what is going on. Depending on the cause, medication, further tests, dietary changes, environmental alterations, secondary referral, or behavioral help may be instigated.

Causes of Bald Spots in Dogs

There are numerous causes for bald spots in dogs, and it can be a bit of trial and error to get to the bottom of it. However, the following ailments may be responsible, and your vet will run tests to rule them in or out and then will start an appropriate treatment plan.

Allergies

Dogs can develop allergies to certain foods or environmental factors. Allergic reactions often manifest as skin irritation, itching, and hair loss.

Parasites

Fleas, ticks, mites and/or lice can cause irritation and lead to intense scratching which will often lead to hair loss. Your vet can perform tests to identify and treat the specific parasite.

If you think you’re dog has parasites, we suggest speaking to a vet.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's our online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

Click to Speak With a Vet

Infections

Bacterial or fungal infections, such as ringworm, can result in bald patches.  Bacterial infections are usually uncomfortable and itchy which causes the dog to scratch and traumatize the area.  Ringworm isn’t usually itchy, but it causes the hairs to become brittle, so they break off more easily, leaving bald spots. Examination by a veterinarian who can perform tests to determine the type of infection and prescribe appropriate medications is necessary in these cases.

Trauma or Injury

Physical injuries, excessive licking or scratching, and obsessive over- grooming can cause localized hair loss or bald spots on your dog.

Hormonal Imbalances/Endocrine Disease

Hormonal issues, otherwise known as endocrine diseases, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or Cushing’s disease, may affect your dog’s coat and weight and cause hair loss or thinning.  These areas of thinning are usually in specific places, depending on the disease process, and will usually be present bilaterally (on both sides of the dog in a symmetrical fashion).

Autoimmune Diseases

Certain autoimmune disorders can result in hair loss, as the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles thinking they are foreign material instead of realizing they are part of the normal self.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Inadequate or inappropriate nutrition can impact the health of your dog’s skin and coat and cause hair loss and subsequent bald spots. It is important your dog is fed a complete canine diet suitable for their age, breed, and size.

Genetic Factors

Some breeds are predisposed to certain hair loss patterns due to genetics. Examples of such breeds include Dachshunds, Greyhounds, Whippets and Boston Terriers.

Behavioral Problems

Anxiety and stress due to either physical or emotional upset can affect hair growth, resulting in bald spots. Your vet may offer advice and treatment for this, or they may refer you to a behavioral specialist for identification and correction of the issue causing the behavioral imbalance.

Burns

Damage to your pooch’s skin from burns will often cause a bald patch or loss of hair. The burn may arise from heat, cold, or chemicals.

Environmental Factors

Activities or habits like the consistent rubbing of their bodies against objects, such as walls or trees, can cause areas of thinned hair or bald spots.  Older animals that find getting up and moving around difficult may develop thickened areas on their pressure points, such as their elbows and their hocks, where hair won’t grow.  This can be a sign that an animal is uncomfortable and that pain management needs to be addressed.

Conclusion

It is worth noting that attempting self-diagnosis or treatment without professional guidance from a veterinarian is not a good idea. Incorrect analysis or treatment may worsen their condition, delay proper care and treatment, and cause your dog further distress.

Skin problems and bald spots can occur for many reasons, and they are very common amongst dogs, so you are not alone. Determining the underlying cause for the bald patches is key, as once this information is known, then correct treatment can begin. In many cases, the hair will grow back too!

See also:

• A Cat Scratched My Dog’s Eye: What Should I Do? Vet-Approved Tips
• Why Does My Puppy Have Bald Spots? 8 Vet Reviewed Reasons

Featured Image Credit: Firn, Shutterstock