Question 1

What is hair loss & bald patches in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Thinning coat, bald spots, or patchy hair loss — often allergies or parasites, but endocrine disease is also possible.

Question 2

What causes hair loss & bald patches in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Common causes include: allergies with scratching or licking, flea allergy dermatitis, mange mites, ringworm, bacterial or yeast skin infection, hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease, seasonal or breed-linked alopecia.

Question 3

When should I worry about hair loss & bald patches in my dog?

Accepted Answer

Itchy hair loss often fits allergy or skin-infection triage. Symmetrical, non-itchy hair loss or hair loss with weight, thirst, or behavior changes should be evaluated in person for endocrine disease. Contact a vet promptly if you notice: rapidly spreading bald patches; red, crusty, smelly, or painful skin; circular lesions that could be ringworm; hair loss plus increased thirst, weight gain, or lethargy; puppies or immunocompromised dogs.

Question 4

Which dog breeds are most prone to hair loss & bald patches?

Accepted Answer

Breeds most commonly affected include French Bulldog, Bulldog (English), Boxer, West Highland White Terrier, Bichon Frise, Siberian Husky, Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Chow Chow. This isn't exhaustive — any dog can have this, these breeds are just more commonly affected.

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