What it is
A healthy coat renews itself in a steady cycle: each hair grows, rests, falls out and is replaced. In alopecia X that cycle stalls. Old hairs shed or get clipped away and new ones simply do not come through. The coarser outer hairs go first, leaving a dry, woolly undercoat that thins in its turn, and the bare skin darkens.
It appears to be linked to the dog's genes and hormones, and it tends to show up in young adulthood rather than in old age. The head and front legs keep their hair, which can give a dog a curious, half-shorn look.
Your dog will feel just as they did before: they are not itchy or in pain. What the coat loses is protection. Bare skin burns more easily in strong sun and lets warmth escape in winter, so shade on bright days and a warm layer for cold walks make a real difference.
Signs you may notice
- Dry, woolly coat
- Hair not regrowing after clipping
- Symmetrical bald patches on the body
- Darkening skin on bare areas
- Thinning tail and thighs
The first thing you may notice is a dry coat that loses its undercoat, and hair that does not grow back after clipping or brushing out. Later, symmetrical bald patches appear on the flanks, tail or backs of the thighs, and the skin there turns dark.
When to see a vet
Book a visit when the coat starts to thin or bald patches appear, because hormonal disorders can look very similar and need to be told apart. See a vet sooner if the bare skin becomes red, sore or flaky.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.