The condition of the dog’s coat and skin is a reflection of his health. Most dogs change their coats twice a year – in spring and fall. How and when a dog sheds its summer or winter coat depends on breed, temperature, and length of daylight. Because indoors the temperature and brightness are fairly consistent throughout the year, there may be a constant change of coat that is of no particular significance.
Malnutrition, parasite infestation, hormonal imbalance or stress?
If a dog suffers from severe hair loss – perhaps with hairless patches, a condition known as alopecia, not caused by scratching, rubbing or licking – or shows a dull, dull coat or else a greasy, oily coat, itching or eczema, then something is wrong.
- Coat problems may indicate malnutrition. Commercial food is usually balanced, but home-cooked food often is not. It should be fortified with mineral and vitamin supplements and an egg now and then. Some dogs get a dull, dull coat if they eat too much meat. Again, a change to a balanced diet will help. Possibly there is also an allergy to a certain food. In this case, the type of food should be changed. In some dogs, high protein and a lack of essential fatty acids trigger itching, dandruff and eczema.
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Behind a dull coat, hair loss and especially dandruff can also be parasites such as mites or a fungal infection. Some dogs are allergic to fleas and therefore lose their hair.
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Hormonal causes can also lead to hair loss, such as hypothyroidism. After castration, the hormonal balance also changes. However, the hair loss usually disappears after some time by itself.
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Stress can also cause hair loss. Stressed or neurotic dogs scratch and bite, have thin hair or lose hair in places.
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Sometimes hair loss is genetic. Some breeds such as Boxers and Dalmatians are prone to it.
Coat discoloration can be a sign of poor nutrition, impaired metabolism, allergies, stress or climatic changes. A coloring of the coat into the reddish or grayish can indicate copper deficiency. Zinc deficiency on the other hand can lead to premature graying of the hair and the skin disease parakeratosis (excessive hornification of the skin). In ‘Dalmatian Bronze Syndrome’ (DBS), dogs look like they have dirty patches in their fur.
Fur care must be
Careful grooming is a prerequisite for a beautiful, healthy coat. Even dogs with short fur should be brushed, when combing, skin changes, possibly even tumors and vermin are noticed early. Dogs should be bathed as rarely as possible, and if so, then only with lukewarm, clear water and mild, moisturizing dog shampoo. It is recommended to protect the dog’s ears with absorbent cotton when doing so.
