Beagle Dog
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Beagle Fur
Alepecia - Just one of the many Beagle fur problems that can develop.
Acantosis Nigricans
This is a medical condition in which there is abnormal darkening of the skin. The main form of the disease occurs in dogs less than one year of age. In the main form the skin darkens and thickens, and secondary infections with bacteria or yeast can occur. It can affect large areas of the Beagle’s body.
It is not currently possible to cure this, but the condition can be controlled with steroids, melatonin injections, and frequent anti-seborrheic shampoos (these counteract swollen oil glands). This condition is diagnosed with a skin biopsy.
The secondary form of the disease is much more common. The darkening of the skin on the dog happens because of 1 of 3 reasons:
- Friction caused by obesity
- Complications from Hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease.
- Allergies
Allergic Dermatitis
Fur loss is a common symptom when a dog has an allergy to an external element. Dog shampoo, conditioner, even the rug cleaner an owner may use is a possible culprit in causing this reaction to the Beagle. Not only will the dog suffer from fur loss, there may be red blisters, sores or lesions on the skin as well.
Fortunately, this can be quickly corrected once it is determined what is causing the Beagle's reaction. A veterinarian should perform patch testing to find the cause and then the owner must eliminate that element. In moderate to severe cases, antihistamines and/or steroids may be prescribed to help the Beagle recover.
Alopecia
This condition develops very quickly and just as surprisingly, disappears very quickly. It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder. When this occurs, there will be patches of fur loss on the coat of the Beagle. Most of the time, unlike an allergic reaction, there will be no itching. This goes away on its own as the dog’s body develops enough antibodies to fend off its inside attacker . In just about all cases, the fur will completely grow back.
Tip: The Beagle actually has a double coat of fur. They have an undercoat and a top coat. The bottom coat shed into the top coat.
Important Fur Details
The Beagle is known for its beautiful coat. It is important to understand the exact details of all fur issues. Any Beagle owners should know about:
- Changes in color
- The proper grooming for the perfect coat
- Shedding Details Straight From the Beagle Experts
- Triggers of fur loss in detail
- Very detailed information on every coat issue in regard to this breed...and Much More! To find out how to have all of this information, click here
Dermatomyositis
This is an infrequent disorder in which the fur loss happens due to a negative reaction to sunlight or UV rays. This condition can be confirmed with a small skin biopsy. Not only will the coat thin, the dog’s skin will be affected also. There may be scabs, sores, redness and irritation. A Beagle with this issue must be protected from the sun. He or she should be kept inside except for house training purposes.. Prednisone may be given in short and small doses initially, followed by vitamin E. The recovery rate for dogs having this is currently 87%.
Food and Flea Allergies
Fur loss may be explained by a food or flea allergy. Luckily, this can be quickly diagnosed and quickly fixed. An owner should always bring their dog to the veterinarian when any coat issues; however help with Beagle fur loss for this reason will be mainly the responsibility of the owner. One must begin feeding the Beagle only one bland food, such as boiled and de-boned chicken. Every week, a new food is introduced; thus allowing the owner to be able to determine which element is causing the reaction. Fleas allergies are actually a reaction to the flea's saliva and once the flea issue is resolved, irritation may continue for up to 4 months for Beagles who are very sensitive and allergic to this.
Hypothyroidism
This condition happens to the Beagle when the thyroid becomes sluggish and produces a lesser amount of hormones. Before fur loss occurs, the coat may become very dry and hair may break off easily. You may notice this when patting or brushing your dog. The under active thyroid may also cause weight gain and weakness. This can be diagnosed when the veterinarian runs thyroid tests. Treatment will be medication, often needed for the rest of the dog's life. Recovery is a slow yet steady process; in most cases the Beagle will make a complete recovery.
