Pattern Alopecia in dogs

Species: Dog
Condition: Pattern Alopecia
Organ System: Nervous/sensory

A condition of gradual and symmetric thinning and loss of hair affecting certain dog breeds. The cause of alopecia is unknown, but it is believed to be inherited. It is therefore not advisable to use affected dogs for breeding. Thinning of the hair usually starts at the age of 6 to 9 months gradually progressing to complete hair loss at the affected areas (under neck, on the chest, back and abdomen, back of the thighs). Aside from bald spots, the dog doesnÂ’t display any other symptoms. There is usually no discomfort, pain or itching. But, unfortunately, there is no available treatment to reverse the hair loss.

Breeds exposed to Pattern Alopecia – Research Reference
Borzoi Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Australian Cattle Dog – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Borzoi – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Affenpinscher – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Australian Cattle Dog Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)

Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine

To learn more about Pattern Alopecia or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.