Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Hair loss and skin bumps in color-diluted dogs explained
By Kim, Jae Hoon et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary science·2005·Department of Veterinary Medicine, South Korea·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Color-dilution alopecia in dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 3-year-old blue Doberman Pinscher was brought in for hair loss and a dull coat. The owner noticed that the dog's fur was thinning, especially on the trunk, and the skin had developed small bumps. The veterinarian diagnosed the dog with color-dilution alopecia, a hereditary skin condition affecting dogs with diluted coat colors. While there is no cure, the vet recommended a specialized grooming routine and skin care to help manage the symptoms. The dog showed some improvement in coat quality with consistent care.
People also search for: dog hair loss treatment · blue Doberman skin problems · color-dilution alopecia in dogs
Abstract
Color-dilution alopecia is a relatively uncommon hereditary skin disease seen in "Blue" and other color-diluted dogs. This syndrome is associated with a color-dilution gene. The initial clinical signs are the gradual onset of a dry, dull and poor hair coat quality. Hair shafts and hair regrowth are poor, and follicular papules may develop and progress to frank comedones. Hair loss and comedo formation are usually most severe on the trunk, especially color-diluted area on the skin. Six cases of color-dilution alopecia are reported in 3 months to 10 years old dogs. The breeds of dogs are blue Doberman Pinscher, Miniature Pinscher, Dachshund, and Schnauzer. Grossly, extensive partial hair loss was seen on the skin. Histopathologically, the epidermis is relatively normal but may be hyperplastic. Hair follicles are characterized by atrophy and distortion. Heavily clumped melanin is present in the epidermis, dermis and hair follicles.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16131833/