Alopecia in Dobermans
Alopecia is a term used to describe hair loss in dogs. Alopecia in dogs can be caused by allergies, mites, or fungal infections. However, alopecia in dobermans is most often caused by a genetic mutation called color mutant alopecia or blue doberman disease.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of alopecia include hair loss and wrinkled or puckered skin. Color mutant alopecia also presents with inflammation in the hair follicle.
Diagnosis
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Alopecia is diagnosed by a microscopic examination of the hair, skin scrapings are examined to check for mites or parasites, a fungal culture is taken to rule out ringworm, and a skin biopsy may be taken.
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Standard Treatment
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Typical alopecia is treated by treating the underlying cause of the hair loss. For example, flea control will help dogs whose hair loss is caused by fleas, and dietary changes may be necessary for dogs that have allergy problems.
Genetic Alopecia Treatment
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Color mutant alopecia is an irreversible disease, and the lost hair will not regrow. In color mutant alopecia bathing with benzoyl peroxide decreases bacteria on the skin, and moisturizers keep the skin from becoming dry.
Protection
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Dogs who have lost a significant amount of hair need to be kept warm in the winter by wearing a sweater and protected from sunburn at all times.
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References
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