Itchy Dog Losing Hair? Our Vet Shares Top Causes

This article was updated on August 3rd, 2023

When my friend’s furbaby developed itchy skin and he was losing his hair, she asked me for advice. I explained possible reasons for the symptoms and examined her dog. Once I run some diagnostic tests, I was able to recommend the appropriate treatment.

In this article, we’ll look at what causes hair loss and itching in dogs and the symptoms you should watch for. Then, we’ll discuss when you can help your dog at home when it’s best to call the vet, and how your doctor will diagnose the underlying condition.

Overview of hair loss in itchy dogs

When dogs lose more hair than natural shedding, the condition is known as alopecia. If it’s accompanied by itching, the symptoms generally point to an irritating skin condition. Alopecia with itchy skin is a common reason that owners bring their dogs to the vet. 

There are several reasons that dogs will have hair loss and scratching. Some are simple conditions related to external circumstances like parasites or infections while others point to organ disease. Depending on the cause, alopecia can involve complete or partial hair loss in one area or throughout the body.

What causes both hair loss and itching in dogs?

There are various causes of hair loss and itching in dogs. Some have external triggers, but others have internal roots.

1. Flea infestation

Fleas on dogs can cause skin irritation and intense itching If your dog develops a flea bite allergy to the pests’ saliva, the inflammation may lead to alopecia. Signs of flea allergy dermatitis include:

• Biting at the tail or rear end
• Suddenly jumping up from a resting position
• Hair loss from the tail head up the middle of the back
• Open scabs from scratching/chewing
• Secondary skin infections

If you suspect your dog has fleas, treat him with a flea dip or shampoo and clean his bedding and environment. In the case of severe infestations or skin irritation, consult with your veterinarian about treatment options including flea control and anti-inflammatory medications if needed. You can also ask about cleaning your dog’s environment to prevent a recurrence. Learn more about flea bites and flea scabs on dogs.

2. Mange (mites)

Mites are another skin parasite that can affect your dog and cause extreme itching with hair loss. When dogs have a mite infestation, certain species can cause scabies while others can cause mange. This dog on the picture below has mange and a secondary skin infection. Notice the bald spot and poor hair coat:

There are two types of mange in dogs:

Demodectic mange: the Demodex mite normally lives on dog skin, but when they overgrow, they can cause problems. Signs of demodectic mange include:

• Local or generalized infection
• Itchy skin
• The skin may be crusty, swollen, and red 
• Hair loss in patches or generalized
• Skin pustules

Demodectic mange usually affects immune-compromised animals. Fortunately, it’s not contagious. Addressing the underlying conditions that caused a weak immune system can help to resolve mange from Demodex mites. If the mange is widespread or generalized, your veterinarian may need to prescribe Ivermectin.

Sarcoptic mange: sarcoptic mange is also known as scabies. This type of mange may start in one area of the body, but it will spread to the rest of the body if left untreated. Symptoms include:

• Uncontrollable, vigorous scratching
• Hair loss
• Skin rash
• Thick crusts, bleeding scabs, or a serous/oily discharge

Scabies is highly contagious among dogs, and these mites can also affect humans. If your dog has sarcoptic mange, your veterinarian will prescribe oral and/or topical medications. Medicated dips containing lime sulfur or amitraz may also be prescribed. When dogs have scabies, it is imperative to thoroughly clean the environment to prevent recurrence or cross-infection. Learn more about mites (dog mange).

3. Lice

Dogs can suffer from pediculosis, or a lice infestation. Fortunately, these crawling pests are species-specific, so they won’t transfer to you. If your furbaby has pediculosis, you may observe:

• Adult lice which are tan, yellow, or medium brown and about the size of a sesame seed
• Vigorous scratching/intense itching
• Hair loss, often around the groin, rectal area, ears, neck, or shoulders
• A rough, matted coat
• Skin infections or small wounds from sucking lice

Lice are fairly rare in dogs, but they may be found on strays, feral dogs, and older or immune-compromised dogs. Treatment involves clipping off matted hair that may have attached eggs and adults and then using a veterinary-approved insecticide to kill the remaining pests. 

The insecticide should be used repeatedly for a month or more to ensure all eggs and larvae that hatch are eliminated when they reach adulthood. You should also wash your dog’s bedding, collar, and any sweaters. 

4. Allergies

Pictured above is a dog with skin allergies. Notice the red skin and trauma from repetitive itching.

Certain foods, chemicals, and environmental stimuli can cause allergies in your dog. When the allergens trigger skin reactions, you may observe:

• Hair loss
• Itchy skin – often around the paws and ears
• Licking the paws
• Chronic ear infections
• Red, inflamed skin
• Poor hair coat
• Hives 

The best way to manage your dog’s allergies is by identifying and avoiding the allergen. However, this can be tricky with dogs. If necessary, your veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines or other allergy relief medications to treat the symptoms. 

Once a dog shows sensitivity or an allergy to a stimulant, he will usually require lifelong management. Over time, the reaction may become more severe. Take your dog to the vet if an allergen causes:

• Facial swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Hives
• Excessive drooling

These signs may indicate an anaphylactic response, which is an emergency. Learn more about dog skin allergies or hair loss due to allergies.

5. Skin infections

Bacteria like Staphylococcus spp and fungi like yeast or ringworm can cause skin infections in dogs. When these microorganisms affect your dog’s skin, you may notice:

• Itchy skin
• Redness and inflammation
• Pus or hot spots
• Skin crusting
• Circular hair loss
• Bumps or raised areas in the skin
• Changes in skin color

Treatment for skin infections varies depending on the causative factor. Your veterinarian will prescribe the appropriate antimicrobial drug. Additionally, you can use topical drugs, ointments, and medicated shampoos to help soothe irritated skin and promote healing. Some types of skin infections are difficult to cure and may take considerable time and attention.

6. Hormone disorders

Dogs with hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can have hormone imbalances that cause hair loss and secondary skin infections that cause itching.

Hypothyroidism

If your dog suffers from hypothyroidism, you may notice:

• Hair loss/balding
• Dull, dry hair
• Susceptibility to ear and skin infections
• Dark pigmentation in the skin
• Lethargy
• Weight gain without a change in appetite

Hypothyroidism can be treated with thyroid replacement hormone, but the condition is incurable. 

Cushing’s disease

Dogs with Cushing’s may exhibit the following signs:

• Thin skin
• Chronic skin infections that cause itching 
• Symmetrical hair loss, as shown on the picture below

• Blackheads
• Pot-bellied appearance
• Lethargy
• Increased appetite
• Increased thirst and urination

Treatment will depend on the type of Cushing’s disease. Like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease can be managed but not cured. It will require lifelong monitoring and medical management. View more pictures of dogs with cushing’s disease.

Other symptoms to keep an eye on if your dog is itchy & losing hair

When hormonal problems, parasites, or environmental conditions affect your dog’s skin, it may have an inflammatory reaction. Dogs with inflamed, irritated skin frequently have the following symptoms:

• Inflamed, red skin that may also be bleeding
• Excessive chewing or scratching at areas of the skin
• Continually licking an area of skin
• Clumps of hair around the house
• Patches of bare skin or hair loss
• A red rash with bumps

If you observe combinations of these symptoms, you need to determine the underlying cause. Contact your veterinarian and report your observations. The sooner your doctor can reach a diagnosis and start recommended treatment, the sooner your furbaby will have some relief. 

What’s the risk of waiting to see if my dog improves (without veterinary treatment)?

Some of the causes of itchy skin with hair loss that we described above are contagious to other animals or humans. Waiting to see if your dog improves can put other family members at risk. 

Additionally, leaving irritated, itchy skin untreated can set your pooch up for more severe diseases. Continual licking or scratching an area may result in open sores that can become infected.

When you take a wait-and-see approach to your dog’s itchy skin and hair loss, you’re also prolonging his discomfort and impacting his quality of life.

When should I contact my vet?

If your dog has a combination of extreme itching and hair loss, you should contact your veterinarian and describe your dog’s symptoms. Many of the conditions that cause these symptoms require treatment or medical management to provide relief for your furry friend. 

Home remedies are not always effective, and they may only treat the symptoms without correcting the underlying condition. If you’re trying any at-home approaches, contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:

• Signs of an allergic reaction like hives, facial swelling, or respiratory distress
• Balding skin
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• A foul odor coming from the skin
• Pustules or crusty skin
• Changes in appetite
• Lethargy or depression

How will my vet diagnose hair loss and itching?

When you take your dog to the vet, he will start by asking you when you noticed the hair loss and itching, about his diet/supplements, if he’s on any medication, and if other family members are showing any symptoms.

After taking a history, the doctor will examine your dog and carefully examine the eyes, ears, and skin. Depending on his findings from the history and physical, the veterinarian will run tests to find a diagnosis. Testing may include:

• Bloodwork
• Urinalysis
• Skin scrapings
• Blacklight examination for ringworm
• Cytological examination of the skin
• Skin biopsies
• Fungal or bacterial cultures
• Hormonal testing

Would a vet be able to help over a video call?

If you’re concerned about the cost of visiting a veterinary clinic, you may be able to start with a video consultation. The doctor would be able to take historical information and discuss symptoms. You may also be able to show your dog’s skin and hair loss pattern or a picture of the affected area. With a video consultation, the vet may be able to assess the severity of your dog’s condition.

Unfortunately, many of the causes of itchy skin and hair loss share similar symptoms. On a video call, the veterinarian is not able to perform a complete physical examination or take diagnostic tests. Without a clear diagnosis, it’s difficult to develop an effective treatment plan to help your dog find relief.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell early if my dog is itchy?

Occasional scratching, chewing, or licking is normal behavior, so how will you know when it’s excessive? You need to know your dog and pay attention to his behavior. That way you can note any time he scratches, licks, chews, or rubs against objects more than usual. When you see changes in behavior, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian.

How can I prevent skin infections in my dog?

To help prevent skin infections, 

• Groom your dog regularly and follow good hygiene practices 
• If you have a dog that requires clipping, keep the hair trimmed to prevent matting. 
• Give your dog supplements like omega fatty acids and vitamin E to support skin health
• Provide your dog with regular exercise to support overall health
• Keep up with deworming and vaccinations 
• Use preventative flea and tick medications

What are some common dietary deficiencies that cause hair loss?

Deficiencies in the following nutrients can lead to hair loss in dogs:

• Dietary protein
• Essential fatty acids 
• Copper 
• Zinc

Are there any home remedies for relieving itching in dogs?

You can try some of these home remedies to help your dog find relief. However, consult with your veterinarian before you use any at-home treatments.

• Feed your dog a bland diet if you suspect a food sensitivity
• Apply pet-safe(latex-free) aloe vera gel or spray to your dog’s itchy skin
• Make a 50/50 baking soda and water paste or a solution of 2 tablespoons dissolved in 1 cup of water to apply to itchy skin.
• Bathe your dog with 1 cup of finely ground colloidal oatmeal mixed with 6 cups of warm water
• Apply solid, unrefined/virgin coconut oil to itchy skin
• Steep 3 or more tea bags in a bathtub of water and soak your dog in the liquid when it’s lukewarm
• Make a 50/50 solution of apple cider vinegar and water that you can spray on your dog’s itchy skin

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