Causes of Hair Loss in Shih Tzus
A Shih Tzu, like any other purebred animal, has breed-specific tendencies toward certain disorders and illnesses. If your shih tzu is losing hair, it could be caused by improper grooming or the normal shedding of the puppy coat, which occurs around 8 months of age. It could also indicate a thyroid disorder, fleas, or even simply dry skin. Preventing conditions that can cause hair loss may be a lot less stressful than trying to solve that hair-loss problem. Knowing the signs of hyperthyroidism can help a shih tzu's owner know when it's important to see a veterinarian.
Identification
If your shih tzu is losing hair, make a mental note of other symptoms and possible conditions before spending money on a vet visit. Around 8 months of age, you can expect your shih tzu to lose hair as he sheds his puppy coat and grows mature adult hair. Finally, wayward grooming habits can cause hair loss, too.
Considerations
Hyperthyroidism in shih tzus can be identified by lethargy, sudden weight gain, muscle loss, inactivity and loss of hair. With thyroid-related hair loss, the dog's hair falls out in patches or chunks whenever he stands up, which is rare. Medication can treat hyperthyroidism in shih tzus, and most dogs recover completely.
Prevention/Solution
Using harsh shampoos and failing to rinse a shih tzu thoroughly are probably the two biggest reasons for hair loss in healthy adults. Breeders recommend baby shampoo applied to the damp outer coat. Scrubbing shampoo at the puppy's scalp isn't recommended; their natural oils must stay intact to maintain the health of their scalp and prevent dry, itchy skin and subsequent hair loss.
Grooming
Shih tzu breeders recommend brushing the dog daily to prevent tangles and mats. Matted hair can trap irritants at the scalp and cause the hair to break off. Daily grooming also allows owners to solve flea problems earlier. Catching fleas before they have a chance to infest the entire animal is the best way to reduce the odds that your animal will suffer pain, irritation and hair loss from fleas.
Warning
If your shih tzu's hair loss is accompanied by other signs of hyperthyroidism, like lethargy (laziness) and weight gain, or can't be attributed to grooming mishaps, dry skin or fleas, visit your veterinarian. Hyperthyroidism is common in shih tzus and can be treated. If it is left untreated, your dog can die.
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