Why Is My Dog Losing Hair? Shedding vs Hair Loss and What to Do

All dogs shed. Double-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, and Pomeranians shed heavily, especially during season changes. This is normal. What is NOT normal is bald patches, thinning fur in specific areas, skin visible through the coat, or excessive hair coming out in clumps.

- Seasonal shedding: Peaks in spring and autumn as the coat adjusts. In India's climate, some breeds shed year-round with heavier periods during season transitions. - Breed-specific: Double-coated breeds shed significantly more. Short-haired breeds like Beagles and Labradors shed moderately but consistently. - After pregnancy: Hormonal changes cause heavy shedding 1-3 months after delivery. This resolves on its own.

Food allergies and environmental allergies cause itching, which leads to scratching, which causes hair loss. - Pattern: Hair loss on belly, paws, ears, and face. Often symmetrical. - Treatment: Identify and remove the allergen. Anti-itch medication from vet.

Demodex causes patchy hair loss, usually starting on the face and front legs. Sarcoptes causes intense itching with hair loss on ear tips, elbows, and belly. - Pattern: Circular or patchy bald spots (demodex), crusty red areas (sarcoptic) - Treatment: Vet-prescribed antiparasitic medication.

Circular patches of hair loss with scaly, red edges. Very common in Indian monsoon season. - Pattern: Well-defined circular bald patches, sometimes with a ring-like border - Treatment: Antifungal medication and medicated shampoo. Contagious to humans.

Hypothyroidism (common in dogs) and Cushing's disease cause symmetrical hair loss without itching. - Hypothyroidism pattern: Hair loss on the trunk, tail ("rat tail"), and sides. Weight gain, lethargy. - Cushing's pattern: Hair loss on body with thin skin, pot-bellied appearance, increased thirst and urination. - Treatment: Blood tests confirm diagnosis. Lifelong medication.

Poor diet leads to dull coat and diffuse thinning. - Pattern: Overall thinning, not patches. Dry, brittle coat. - Treatment: Balanced diet, omega-3 supplementation (fish oil).

Dogs can lose hair from chronic stress — changes in household, new pet, owner absence. Cats over-groom when stressed, creating bald patches on belly and inner legs.

- Regular brushing: Removes dead hair, distributes natural oils, and lets you spot problems early - Balanced diet: Ensure adequate protein and fat. Add fish oil or coconut oil for coat health. - Omega-3 fatty acids: 1000mg fish oil per 10kg body weight daily (check with vet) - Oatmeal baths: For itchy, dry skin - Coconut oil: Applied topically and given orally (1 teaspoon per 10kg body weight)

- Bald patches (not just thinning) - Hair loss with itching, redness, or sores - Symmetrical hair loss (suggests hormonal) - Hair loss with other symptoms (weight gain, thirst, lethargy) - Hair loss that is getting worse despite home care - Skin that looks dark, thickened, or has an odour

Hair loss is gradual. By the time you notice a bald patch, it has been developing for weeks. Take monthly photos of the same areas. Log when you notice changes. Omelo helps you track coat condition over time so your vet can see the progression and make a faster diagnosis.