Dog Hair LossDog Hair Loss Information

Canine Atopy

is an allergy disease that is passed by heredity, and is induced when there is exposure to the exciting antigen. This chronic itching aliment affects a significant number of dogs.  This disease seems to be passed genetically from parents (if the parents had the problem their off spring most likely will have the problem too).  This ailment is the result of allergic reaction to agents in the dog’s environment–much like allergies humans get from various things .  This is a respiratory tract disease that in dogs is manifested by itchy irritation to the skin.

This dog skin disorder is more prevalent in younger dogs . . . dogs under the age of two.  Like many other of the dog hair loss problems, you may find your dog excessively grooming.  They will spend a great deal of time licking and chewing their paws, abdomen and perineum.

The face and feet seem to be the areas of most infection.  The discomfort the dog feels to the itching sensation caused by the allergy reaction causes them to scratch constantly in hopes of relieving them of the irritation.  This excessive scratching causes hair loss in the area along with creating red, irritated skin and moistness to the affected area.

There is no cure for this inherited malady, but some relief can be given the dog with baths using topical shampoos and agents that lessen bacteria and yeast.  The shampoo treatment process may take up to three weeks to alleviate the bacteria or yeast problem.  Also,  rubbing anti-inflammatory topical ointments into the affected area can be helpful.  A veterinarian my prescribe the use of antihistamines and cortisone like products–preferably as a lotion, mist or spray taken topically. <<< Return to Dog Loss Overview

The information contained in the articles on this website is provided for information purposes only. The articles are not written by veterinarians per se. As such, the information should not be considered as a replacement for the advice of a veterinarian. Great care is made in the creation of these articles; however, we cannot guarantee their accuracy and/or omissions. In all cases where doubt may exist, we recommend seeking appropriate professional veterinary advice and assistance.