What it is
In this disease the immune system attacks the small blood vessels of the skin and, in some dogs, of the muscles. Where the blood supply suffers, the skin becomes inflamed, scabs over and loses hair, especially in places that get rubbed or knocked: the face, the ear tips, the tail tip and the bony points of the legs. When the muscles are involved, the chewing muscles of the head can shrink.
The disease is inherited and first shows itself in puppies and young dogs. Signs can flare up and settle again, and sunlight, stress, heat cycles or small skin injuries may set off a flare.
At home, gentle handling spares fragile skin: a soft collar or harness, a bed without rough edges and shade on bright days. If chewing is hard work, your dog may eat more slowly or drop food, so it is worth watching how it manages its bowl.
Signs you may notice
- Scabs on the face or ear tips
- Hair loss around the eyes
- Scaly, bald tail tip
- Sores over bony leg points
- Trouble chewing or swallowing
- Shrunken muscles on the head
You may notice scabs, scaly skin and bald patches on the face, around the eyes, on the ear tips, the tip of the tail or over bony points of the legs. Some dogs lose muscle on the head, find chewing or swallowing harder, or walk stiffly.
When to see a vet
Book a visit when scabs or bald patches appear on your dog's face, ears or tail tip, or when it starts to struggle with chewing or swallowing.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.