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Step 1
Visit your vet. It's important that you get a proper diagnosis to determine an effective course of treatment.
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Step 2
Treat with a topical ointment if the cause is due to flea associated dermatitis, ringworm (a fungal infection) or pyotraumatic dermatitis (hot spots.) Some breeds are prone to hot spots, which cause intense itching in one or two areas of the body, enough to cause your dog to scratch and bite the area raw. In severe cases, an anti-inflammatory injection is necessary.
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Step 3
Have your vet look for more serious causes such as food allergies or canine atopy if itching is constant and widespread. If your dog suffers from food allergies, your vet may place her on a trial diet. If your vet suspects canine atopy, this means your dog has a genetic propensity to allergic reactions. Treatments include shampoos and soothing creams that reduce bacteria and yeast.
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Step 4
Test for the genetic disorder, demodectic mange which causes a bacterial infection. The treatment is Mitaban dips or ivermectin. Sarcoptic mange involves a transmittable parasite that burrows into a dog's skin causing intense itching. Oral or injectible ivermectin cures sarcoptic mange.
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Step 5
Share concerns with your vet that hair loss is due to a nervous, stress or boredom induced cause. Common in most terrier breeds, this type of hair loss is difficult to cure. Treatments include relieving boredom, taping bare areas, topical bitters or anti-obsessive/compulsive medications.
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Step 6
Make sure your vet rules out underlying diseases, which cause hair loss, such as hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, cyclic flank alopecia or telogenic defluxion.
