Alopecia is the clinical term for abnormal hair loss in dogs. Hair loss can be partial or complete, and while it is sometimes congenital–meaning your dog was born with hair follicles that don’t develop normally–it can also be acquired from disease or trauma to the skin.

If You Suspect Alopecia, Ask Your Dog’s Vet

Alopecia can be purely cosmetic and not affect your dog’s health. However, alopecia can also be a sign of an underlying health concern, so we recommend taking your dog to its vet for a physical examination. Your vet can perform skin scrapings for parasites, blood tests and skin cultures, allergy testing, and biopsies to rule out causes.

Once the cause is determined, you can work with your vet to best treat the condition. And depending on the reason, taking an integrative approach to treating alopecia often includes natural remedies or supplements.

Signs of Alopecia

Hair loss is the main symptom of alopecia, but you may notice these things as well:

Dandruff
Itchy skin
Patches of dark skin
Brittle or dry coat
Shedding more than usual bald patches
Crusting or red patches around the bald patches
Inflammation around bald patches

How to Treat Alopecia

Because there are SO many causes of alopecia (think: allergies, poor diet, inflammation from repeated scratching or chewing, fleas, parasites, fungus, autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders … and the list goes on!) treating it can be difficult until you know what the root cause is. But the good news is most alopecia is manageable with natural methods.

Changing your dog’s diet to include more raw, whole, fresh foods and less processed meals, adding a dietary supplement, changing your dog’s environment, and avoiding certain chemicals and drugs can help with managing the condition.

Consider Supplementing With Omega 3, 6, and 9 Fatty Acids to Improve Skin and Coat Health

Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids are natural, safe essential nutrients that promote a healthy coat and skin. All dogs can benefit from adding these supplements to their diet!

Check out our 2 favorite brands, both available in our store and online:

1. Natural Dog Company’s Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil

This salmon oil is a pure and effective source of Omega 3. It supports the immune system, skin & coat, allergies, healthy joints, and every day health and can be given to dogs of all ages and breeds!

2. Ultra Oil Skin and Coat Supplement

This oil contains a superblend of omegas 3, 6, and 9 that can help to reduce and treat dry skin and hair conditions like hot spots, allergic reactions, itching, alopecia, and more. When used daily, it delivers the perfect ratio of healthy fats!

Plus, it can help lower blood LDL cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular circulation and function, improve organ function, improve immunity levels, and increase energy levels and metabolic rate.

What is Alopecia in Dogs and How Can I Naturally Treat It?