Hair Loss in Airedales
Airedales as a breed have a predisposition to certain diseases that can cause hair loss. Common culprits are allergies, hypothyroidism, sebaceous adenitis, canine recurrent flank alopecia (CRFA), and follicular dysplasia.
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Allergies
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While not the only breed to suffer from skin allergies, Airedales are especially susceptible to hot spots (moist sores on the skin) along with hair loss.
Hypothyroidism
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In the 2001 Breed Health Survey, 7.5% of Airedales were reported to be hypothyroid (not enough thyroid hormone). Diagnosed by a blood test, one classic symptom of hypothyroidism is hair thinning and loss.
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Sebaceous Adenitis
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Sebaceous adenitis is a hereditary autoimmune disease diagnosed by a skin biopsy. It can mimic allergies, with very flaky skin and patchy hair loss.
CRFA
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An Airedale with canine recurrent flank alopecia has symmetric hair loss on his flanks. It tends to occur seasonally and can return year after year. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, blood work and skin biopsies. Treatment is difficult, but many Airedales will regrow hair when the days lengthen even without treatment.
Follicular dysplasia
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In this condition, the hair follicles don't function normally, resulting in non-seasonal hair loss. In Airedales, this hair loss usually appears between the ages of 2 and 4 and is confined to the animal's trunk.
Treatment
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Treatment of hair loss in Airedales depends on the cause, often just addressing the symptoms. Genetic causes are more difficult to treat with success, and many will recur.
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