The number one topic for Pomeranians. Have you heard about hair loss that is not normal shedding? It affects large areas of the body and usually has a different, often unknown, cause. This is Alopecia X.
Why does alopecia occur?
It affects males more often. The cause can be hormonal imbalance, allergies (not only) to fleas, bacterial or viral infections, dermatitis, thyroid problems or Cushing's syndrome . Poor living conditions, excessive stress, harsh and frequent coat care can also be triggers. And we must not forget genetics – Norwegian breeds with a double undercoat, such as the Pomeranian, simply get alopecia. How to recognize it?
Coat in the initial stage of alopecia
How alopecia starts
The coat usually becomes thin, cottony and starts to fall out more . New hairs are coarser and grey, and the skin underneath may darken. These are the first signs of alopecia. The dog usually feels no pain, so you might not notice it right away. But when the fur disappears from the entire length of the back and only black and rough skin (so-called BSD) is visible, the problem can no longer be overlooked. This most often happens in the first 3 years of life, but theoretically it can occur later. What should alopecia teach you? Patience.
The only vet
With the first suspicion that something is seriously wrong with the coat, contact your veterinarian . They will certainly want to know what and how you feed your dog, because diet plays a big role in this case . Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin B complex must not be missing; vitamin C is important for immune support (even though they can produce it themselves, they certainly don't have enough during such an extensive problem). Then the veterinarian usually takes blood and provides a complete blood count.
It is best to consult a dermatologist. We highly recommend Dr. Rybníček , and the team at Veterina Hanza .
How to fix bald spots?
Once alopecia appears, adjust the diet and give the coat and skin special care . What has worked best for us?
- Bathe the Pomeranian with alopecia at home 2-3 times a month with a special shampoo.
- Then we recommend applying a highly hydrating mask to promote hair growth, ideally along with a skin and coat serum .
- Furthermore, apply milk for hair growth in alopecia daily to the affected skin and coat, which has anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects.
- We have also never been disappointed by products from the US brand Mendota Pet . In addition to all this, a solution to support hair follicles also helps with hair growth.
Other helpers in the fight
Great fighters against alopecia are ozone baths (about twice a month) in the salon . They cleanse, activate, and prepare hair follicles to receive minerals and medicinal ingredients. When we give the Pomeranian a wrap after an ozone and oxygen bath, the fur starts to grow up to 4 times faster. The simultaneous use of Melatonin Vitabalans for 3-6 months , which must be prescribed by a veterinarian, also helps greatly.
A shaved Pomeranian at the onset of alopecia
Alopecia and castration
After castration, the coat of Pomeranians usually deteriorates . Without reproductive hormones, hair growth slows down, and any alopecia problem then lasts much longer. Do you already have a spayed Pom? Focus on their hormonal response and mental peace and well-being.
Pomeranian with a healthy coat
Beware of incorrect grooming
A common mistake with Pomeranians is improper grooming. Dogs groomed in the cute teddy bear style have come into fashion. However, the Pomeranian is a double-coated breed, and if you significantly cut most of its hair, you can induce alopecia.
A haircut that does more harm than good
Are you concerned about the onset of alopecia? Or are you already fighting it and looking for help? Write to us at info@groomo.cz! We would also appreciate stories of how you overcame this condition.
