Mary Allen
Introduction: Understanding Dog Skin Shedding
Like humans, dogs shed their skin cells on a regular basis, and it’s perfectly normal. However, excessive shedding can be a sign of an underlying health issue. Dogs with excessive skin shedding may have flaky skin, patches of hair loss, and an overall dull coat. It’s essential to understand the causes of excessive shedding in dogs to identify the underlying issue and provide appropriate treatment.
Common Causes of Excessive Skin Shedding in Dogs
Several factors can cause excessive skin shedding in dogs. These include parasites, fungal infections, allergies, nutritional deficiencies, environmental factors, stress, anxiety, and underlying health conditions. Identifying the cause of excessive shedding can be challenging, and it often requires a visit to the veterinarian.
Parasites: The Culprit Behind Your Dog’s Flaky Skin
Parasites like fleas, ticks, mites, and lice can cause excessive skin shedding in dogs. These parasites feed on your dog’s blood, which can lead to skin irritation, inflammation, and infection. Your dog may scratch, bite, or lick the affected area, causing further damage to the skin and hair follicles. If left untreated, parasitic infestations can lead to more severe health issues, such as anemia, skin infections, and even death. To prevent and treat parasite infestations, use appropriate insecticides and consult your veterinarian for advice.