Species: Dog
Condition: Vitiligo
Organ System: Urogenital
Vitiligo in dogs is similar to its counterpart in humans. Affected dogs develop bleached splotches of skin that occasionally also affect the hair coat and claws. The exact cause of this disorder is unknown. The following breeds appear to be predisposed to vitiligo: Belgian Tervuren, Doberman pinscher, German shepherd and Rottweiler. There is no treatment for this condition, however its effects are generally cosmetic and it is very rare for it to have any adverse impact on your dog’s health. Some research indicates that nutritional supplements may help to cure this condition, however there is still very little evidence to support this.
Breeds exposed to Vitiligo – Research Reference
Gordon Setter Cross – (Scott & Anderson 1990)
Cocker Spaniel – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Spoodle – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Labradoodle – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Labrador Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Spoodle Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Cocker Spaniel Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Labrador Retriever Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Labrador – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Labrador Retriever – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Gordon Setter – (Scott & Anderson 1990)
Labradoodle Cross – Canine Inherited Disorders Database (CIDD)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Vitiligo 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.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
