Natural Remedies for Dogs with Endocrine Disorders & Ha
Section 1: Reasons for Dogs Losing Hair
1. One common cause of hair loss in dogs is hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland in the endocrine system fails to function properly. This leads to symptoms such as excessive sleepiness, fatigue, obesity, intolerance to cold, infertility, dry and rough skin, lack of luster in the coat, and excessive dander. Dogs may also exhibit sparse fur and a tendency to shed more than usual.
2. Another cause is the result of adrenal cortical tumors, overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone from the pituitary gland, or longterm use of corticosteroids, all of which can lead to hair loss. Common symptoms in affected dogs include frequent urination, urine specific gravity consistently below 1.020 (normal range is 1.0151.050), muscle atrophy, easy exhaustion, increased abdominal circumference, and a tubular distribution of fat. The skin may become thin, revealing the epidermal vessels and skin folds. Deposits of calcium and pigments may also be unevenly distributed on the damaged skin. Overeating can exacerbate these issues.
3. Disruptions in the reproductive glands can manifest as acanthomas in male dogs and hair loss in female dogs, often associated with ovarian cysts. Dogs with reproductive gland imbalances, whether male or female, may experience recurring hair loss.
Section 2: Treatment Methods for Dog Hair Loss
Diagnosis and treatment are primarily focused on hormone levels. For patients with acanthomas, a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan are essential, which may include oral or injectable medications. Female dogs with ovarian dysfunction may require the removal of both ovaries. Thyroid hormone therapy can be administered at a dose of 0.4 to 0.8 mg/kg body weight, with a treatment course lasting 4 to 8 weeks. The initial two weeks may require higher doses, which can then be adjusted downward for better results.
Pet Doctor's Tip: For more indepth information about dog hair loss, click on "Reasons and Treatment Methods for Dog Hair Loss" to learn more.