Alopecia X in Dogs

Breeds documented
1
Published sources
1

Overview

The normal hair growth cycle stops in affected areas, causing a gradually thinning coat and bald patches. This disorder, called alopecia X, has an uncertain cause. Dogs generally stay well, and the hair loss itself does not itch. The body coat may disappear while the head and lower legs are usually spared, and exposed skin can darken. Similar hair loss can occur with hormone disorders, so those need to be excluded.

Signs to watch for

  • A coat that becomes dry and dull
  • Loss of the longer outer hairs
  • Thinning or bald patches on the neck, body, tail, or thighs
  • Darkening skin in areas with hair loss
  • Hair loss without itching

Signs most often begin at 1 to 3 years, though later onset is possible.

When to get help Book a vet visit when new hair loss or darkening skin appears.

Diagnosis and tests

Diagnosis combines the pattern of hair loss with tests that exclude other causes, including thyroid and adrenal disease. The vet may take skin scrapings to check for mites. Examining a small skin sample under a microscope can support a finding of stalled hair growth, but cannot identify alopecia X on its own.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size
  • 1 Toy

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. open.lib.umn.edu