Ayurveda for Alopecia in Dogs – Natural Hair Regrowth & Skin Healing

Abstract

Alopecia, or hair loss, is a common issue seen in dogs, where they may experience partial or complete bald patches on different parts of their body. It can affect dogs of all breeds, ages, and sexes, although certain breeds show a higher predisposition to the condition. The prevalence of alopecia in dogs can vary based on factors like breed, age, environment, and the underlying cause. While studies show that about 4% to 10% of dermatology cases in dogs involve hair loss, it tends to be more common in certain breeds and areas. Recognizing alopecia and understanding its causes early on is key to managing the condition effectively. The sooner it’s identified, the easier it is to treat and prevent further issues, helping your dog feel better and get back to their usual self.

Introduction

Alopecia, or hair loss, is a common issue in dogs. Alopecia in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, infections (bacterial or fungal), allergies, and immune-related disorders. In some cases, stress, poor diet, or parasites like mites and fleas may also contribute hair loss. Identifying the exact cause is key to proper management.

Causes of Alopecia in Dogs

Alopecia in dogs can have multiple causes, including

1. Certain breeds are genetically predisposed to hair loss.
2. Hormonal imbalances like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can cause hair loss.
3. Bacterial or fungal infections may lead to bald patches.
4. Allergies, including food, environmental, or flea allergies, can result in hair loss.
5. Autoimmune diseases can cause the immune system to attack hair follicles.
6. Parasites like fleas, mites, or ticks can irritate the skin and cause hair loss.
7. Stress or anxiety can lead to excessive grooming and hair loss.
8. Poor nutrition or deficiencies can affect coat and skin health.
9. Environmental changes, like temperature or humidity shifts, can contribute to hair loss.

Types of Alopecia in Dogs

The types of alopecia in dogs include

1. Congenital Alopecia: Present at birth, often seen in breeds like the Chinese Crested or Mexican Hairless, where hair loss is a natural trait.
2. Pattern Baldness: Common in certain breeds, such as the Dachshund and Greyhound, where hair loss occurs in specific areas like the belly or legs.
3. Alopecia X: A hereditary condition that causes symmetrical hair loss, often in young adult dogs of certain breeds like Pomeranians and Huskies.
4. Hormonal Alopecia: Caused by hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease, leading to hair thinning or loss.
5. Follicular Alopecia: Caused by damage to the hair follicles, often due to infections, parasites, or autoimmune disorders.
6. Seasonal Alopecia: Often seen in certain breeds like the Boxer, where hair loss occurs seasonally, typically during the colder months.
7. Alopecia Due to Parasites: Caused by external parasites like fleas, mites, or ticks, which lead to hair loss from constant itching and scratching.
8. Allergic Alopecia: Hair loss due to allergic reactions, including food allergies, flea allergies, or environmental allergens.
9. Stress-Induced Alopecia: Caused by emotional stress, anxiety, or excessive grooming, leading to hair thinning or loss.

Symptoms of Alopecia in Dogs

The Symptoms of alopecia in dogs include

1. Bald patches or thinning fur
2. Itching and scratching
3. Licking affected areas
4. Red, irritated, or inflamed skin
5. Dry, flaky, or scaly skin
6. Foul odor, especially with infections
7. Small bumps or scabs on the skin
8. Lethargy or weight changes (with hormonal issues)
9. Open sores or lesions from scratching

Toxic Foods For Dogs

There are so many foods that are toxic for dogs they are as follow

1. Chocolate – Toxic to dogs, can cause serious health issues.
2. Grapes – Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
3. Onions – Can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.
4. Garlic – Similar to onions, it can cause toxicity and damage red blood cells.
5. Alcohol – Can cause liver damage, intoxication, and even death.
6. Xylitol (artificial sweetener) – Extremely toxic, can cause liver failure.
7. Avocado – Contains persin, which can cause gastrointestinal issues.
8. Fatty or Fried Foods – Can lead to obesity and skin problems.
9. Cooked Bones – Can splinter and cause internal injuries or choking.
10. Dairy – Many dogs are lactose intolerant, leading to digestive upset.

Breeds Prone to Alopecia

Certain dog breeds are more prone to alopecia due to genetic factors, making them more susceptible to hair loss. These breeds include:

1. Chinese Crested
2. Mexican Hairless (Xoloitzcuintli)
3. Pomeranian
4. Husky
5. Shih Tzu
6. Boxer

Diagnosis of Alopecia in Dogs

Steps to diagnose alopecia in dogs involve

1. Blood test
2. Thyroid Test: Checks for hypothyroidism.
3. ACTH Test: To diagnose Cushing’s disease.
4. CBC: Looks for infection or inflammation.
5. Organ Function Tests: Assesses liver and kidney health.
6. Hormone Levels: Checks for imbalances affecting hair loss.
7. Skin Scraping
8. To check for parasites like mites or fungal infections.
9. Fungal Culture or Biopsy
10. If fungal infections are suspected.
11. Allergy Testing
12. To determine if allergies are the cause of hair loss.

Preventive Measures of Alopecia in Dogs

Preventive measures for alopecia in dogs include

1. Regular cleaning keeps the coat healthy
2. A proper diet supports skin and coat health
3. Parasite control prevents fleas, ticks, and mites.
4. Managing allergies
5. Avoid triggers
6. Reducing stress through exercise
7. Clean environment is beneficial
8. Using suitable shampoos and moisturizers to maintains healthy skin

Management of Alopecia in Dogs

Alopecia in dogs can b managed by the following steps

1. Medication

1. Corticosteroids
2. Antifungals
3. Antibiotics
4. Antihistamines
5. Immunosuppressants

2. Topical management

1. Medicated Shampoos
2. Topical Steroids
3. Antifungal Creams
4. Moisturizing Ointments
5. Anti-parasitic Sprays

3. Dietary Adjustments

1. Supplements like fish oil to improve coat health and reduce inflammation
2. Ensures hair growth and overall skin health with high-quality protein
3. Ensures adequate zinc, biotin, and vitamin E to support hair and skin
4. Reduces allergic reactions causing hair loss with a hypoallergenic diet
5. Provides all essential nutrients to support overall health and coat condition

Ayurvedic Aspect

Ayurveda, a time-tested approach to human health, is now gaining popularity for its positive impact on animals as well. This specialized field, called Pashu Ayurveda, is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of pets like dogs. It relies on natural herbs, treatments, and remedies to address various health issues in animals. In Ayurveda, Indralupta (alopecia) is a condition that correlates closely with alopecia (hair loss) in humans as well as animals like dogs. According to ayurvedic principles, alopecia is often caused by imbalances in the body’s doshas vata, pitta, and kaph along with the rakta dhatu (blood). These imbalances can lead to hair fall and inhibit the regrowth of new hair, which is a common issue in alopecia. When vata is imbalanced, it causes dryness, brittleness, and poor circulation to the hair follicles, leading to hair breakage and thinning. Pitta imbalance results in excess heat, causing inflammation and irritation in the skin and hair follicles, leading to premature hair loss and potential skin conditions. When kapha is vitiated, excess oils and fluids clog the hair follicles, hindering nourishment and hair growth. Similarly, rakta (blood) imbalance affects blood circulation, depriving hair follicles of nutrients and oxygen, weakening them, and preventing new hair growth, ultimately causing hair loss. Thus alopecia in dogs is addressed by balancing the body’s doshas (humors) vata, pitta, kapha, and rakta dhatu (blood). Restoring this balance improves blood flow, promotes healthy hair growth, and supports a shiny, vibrant coat.

Ayurvedic Herbs that can be used in the management of alopecia in dogs include

1. Amla (Emblica officinalis) – Promotes hair growth and strengthens follicles.
2. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba) –  Boosts hair regrowth.
3. Neem (Azadirachta indica) – Cleanses scalp and reduces inflammation.
4. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) – Improves circulation, strengthens coat.
5. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) – Strengthens hair and prevents hair fall.

Herbal Remedies for Alopecia by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a trusted Ayurvedic brand known for creating natural, herbal products that support overall health and well-being. With a focus on using time-tested, plant-based ingredients, their products are designed to nurture and heal, offering a holistic approach to wellness. For addressing alopecia in dogs, Planet Ayurveda offers a range of products, including Fur Coat Syrup, ZigrVet Syrup, Vara Vet Powder, Derma Vet Tablets, and Happy Fur Shampoo. These products are crafted using traditional Ayurvedic ingredients known for their therapeutic properties, providing a holistic approach to managing hair loss and promoting a healthier coat and skin for dogs.

Product Description

1. Fur Coat syrup

This syrup is made with a blend of powerful ayurvedic herbs, including Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), and Khadir (Areca catechu), among others. Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia) detoxifies the blood, improves circulation, and promotes healthier fur. Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus) soothes the skin, balances moisture, reduces inflammation, and boosts immunity, helping with skin conditions and allergies. Khadir (Areca catechu) provides antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits, fighting infections and supporting skin health. Together, these ingredients work synergistically to promote hair regrowth, improve coat texture, and address the underlying causes of alopecia, offering a holistic approach to treating this condition in dogs.

Dosage : 10 ml, twice a day

2. Ziger Vet Syrup

It is a liquid formulation, specially designed to help manage alopecia in dogs by improving skin health and promoting hair regrowth. This syrup contains a potent combination of ayurvedic herbs like Patol (Trichosanthes dioica), Bhringraj (Eclipta alba), and Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), each known for their beneficial effects on the skin and coat. The combination of these herbs in this syrup works synergistically to support skin health, promote hair regrowth, and reduce inflammation, making it a natural and holistic solution for dogs suffering from alopecia.

3. Vara Vet Powder

This powder is formulated with a blend of powerful Ayurvedic herbs, including Dhatri/Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and Bhibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica), among others, which are known for their beneficial effects on skin health, hair growth, and overall well-being. With regular use, this powder helps nourish the hair follicles, encourages hair regrowth, and keeps the coat shiny and healthy. It offers a natural, holistic solution for treating alopecia in dogs, supporting not just their fur but also their overall well-being.

Dosage : ½ tablespoons, twice a day.

4. Derma Vet Tablet

These tablets are made with potent Ayurvedic ingredients like Harida (Curcuma longa) and Neem (Azadirachta indica). The combination of these herbs along with other supportive ingredients in these tablets, works synergistically to heal the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote the health of hair follicles. This makes the tablets an effective natural remedy for dogs with alopecia, helping them regain a healthy, shiny coat.

Dosage : 2 tablets, twice a day

5. Happy Fur Shampoo

This shampoo is enriched with extracts of powerful natural ingredients such as Amla (Phyllanthus emblica), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), and Bhringraj (Eclipta alba), along with other beneficial herbs. Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, nourishes the skin and stimulates hair growth, helping with hair loss. Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi) soothes the scalp, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy hair follicles. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba), often referred to as the “king of hair,” has been used for centuries in ayurveda to strengthen hair roots, reduce hair fall, and improve overall scalp health. These herbs, along with other natural ingredients, cleanse the skin, nourish hair follicles, and restore a shiny, healthy coat in dogs with alopecia.

Application : Apply shampoo to wet coat, massage gently, rinse, repeat if needed, brush, and towel dry.

Conclusion

In this article we have concluded about alopecia in dogs. We covered the causes, types, symptoms, harmful foods for dogs, breeds susceptible to alopecia, diagnosis, prevention strategies, management options, as well as the ayurvedic perspective and herbal remedies from planet ayurveda. Ayurvedic treatments offer a natural, holistic approach, helping to balance the body’s doshas (humors) to promote healthy skin and fur using herbal remedies. With early detection and the right care, alopecia in dogs can be managed effectively, helping them maintain a healthy and shiny coat.