Dog Hair Loss: Causes, When to Worry, and When to Seek Care

Hair loss in dogs—also known as alopecia—can be concerning, especially when it appears suddenly or in patches. While some shedding is normal, noticeable thinning, bald spots, or changes in your dog’s coat may indicate an underlying issue.

Understanding what’s causing your dog’s hair loss can help you determine when it’s time to seek veterinary care.

Common Causes of Hair Loss in Dogs

Hair loss can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from mild skin irritation to more complex health issues. Common causes include:

• Allergies (environmental or food-related)
• Fleas and other external parasites
• Skin infections (bacterial or yeast)
• Mites (such as mange)
• Hormonal imbalances (such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease)
• Excessive licking or scratching
• Stress or behavioral issues
• Poor nutrition

In some cases, hair loss may occur along with redness, itching, or skin changes.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While mild shedding is normal, certain signs indicate your dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

You should seek care if your dog:

• Has noticeable bald patches or thinning fur
• Is scratching, licking, or chewing excessively
• Has red, inflamed, or irritated skin
• Has scabs, sores, or open wounds
• Has a strong odor from the skin
• Has hair loss that is spreading or worsening
• Is showing changes in behavior or energy

Hair loss combined with skin irritation often indicates an underlying condition that requires treatment.

How We Diagnose Hair Loss in Dogs

At Nexus Veterinary Urgent Care, we evaluate hair loss by identifying the underlying cause affecting your dog’s skin or health.

Diagnostics may include:

• Skin examination and evaluation of coat condition
• Skin cytology to check for bacteria or yeast
• Parasite evaluation (fleas, mites)
• Bloodwork to assess for hormonal or systemic conditions
• Discussion of diet and environmental factors
• Additional testing depending on symptoms

Our goal is to determine whether the issue is dermatologic, behavioral, or systemic.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause of your dog’s hair loss.

Common treatments may include:

• Medications to control itching and inflammation
• Antibiotics or antifungals for skin infections
• Flea and parasite prevention or treatment
• Medicated shampoos or topical therapies
• Dietary changes or supplements
• Treatment of underlying hormonal conditions

Early treatment can help restore your dog’s coat and prevent further skin damage.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Call

We provide same-day urgent care to help your pet get the care they need as soon as possible in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk. Visit us at 1124 Lynnhaven Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 or call us at 757-974-8111.