Proper treatment for dog hair loss can be accomplished effectively, once you know the underlying cause. There are many conditions that cause hair loss in dogs. Parasitic infections generally cause hair loss, as does dermatitis and any condition involving an imbalance of hormones. Medications can be prescribed to treat infections or disease, and natural remedies can be incorporated for prevention and relief of certain symptoms.
Mange
Several types of mange in dogs will cause hair loss. Mange is caused by mites, and will be accompanied by other, more severe symptoms. If dog hair loss is accompanied by excessive scratching with patches that look scaly and red, mange is a possible diagnosis. Treatment of mange can be accomplished with drugs like ivermectin, or natural remedies with borax, peroxide or tea tree oil as an ingredient.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a skin condition that is quite common in dogs. Many conditions may cause dermatitis including bacteria, fungus, yeast, allergies, fleas, toxins, nutritional deficiencies or cancer. Many of the common forms of dermatitis will cause dog hair loss, either in patches or over large areas of the body. If itching becomes excessive, dogs may lick or bite at an affected area until it becomes raw, infected and hairless.
Acral lick dermatitis is caused when dogs become obsessed with licking or biting at a certain area on their bodies. Onset of this condition is generally due to a psychological problem like boredom or stress, rather than a skin condition. Severe cases of any form of dermatitis may require steroid pills or shots. Hot spots should be treated with antibiotics. Natural remedies containing chamomile, witch hazel or other herbs known for anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties may provide relief for dog dermatitis.
Ringworm
Ringworm in dogs is caused by a fungus, not a worm like the name suggests. Symptoms of ringworm are quite similar to mange, but spots and patches accompanied by scaliness and crusts do not generally itch to the same degree. Ringworm, like mange, is highly contagious, but will usually resolve itself over time. Dogs with healthy immune systems will generally resist a ringworm infection, so keep check for additional symptoms if ringworm begins to spread. Dog hair loss and other symptoms due to ringworm can be treated with an antifungal topical medication. Tea tree oil and neem oil are both excellent herbal remedies known for their antifungal properties.
Hormonal Imbalance
A hormonal imbalance will often cause dog hair loss. Conditions such as Cushing's disease and hypothyroidism cause important bodily processes to function improperly, thus leading to many unpleasant symptoms. In the case of hypothyroidism, a simple hormonal supplement will likely clear up symptoms. This treatment will usually be recommended for the remainder of a dog's life. Cushing's disease may involve tumors, in which case surgery would often be the preferred option. Natural and homeopathic remedies are available for promoting a healthy thyroid gland, and soothing the endocrine systems responsible for hormone secretion and regulation.