Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs: One of the most typical causes of hair loss in dogs is malnutrition. Dog owners will swiftly become familiar with their personal dog’s routines as all dogs shed hair. There are a few reasons why dogs can be experiencing more hair loss.
A veterinarian’s initial examination will involve screening for vitamin and nutritional deficiencies. In this article, we’ll examine which vitamin deficiencies in dogs result in hair loss. Vitamins and minerals are vital to your dog’s health.
Importance of Vitamins in Dog Hair Health
Minerals and vitamins are crucial components of a dog’s diet. Dogs with well-nourished coats and healthy skin have beautiful coats. In addition to promoting joint health and energy levels, vitamins also help to build teeth and bones.
The majority of premium dog foods provide all of the nutrients dogs need each day in terms of vitamins and minerals.
For the most part, supplements are thus not necessary. Poor eating is frequently the cause of dogs’ nutritional inadequacies that we observe. Some owners choose to tackle things on their own, but if they are not experienced, things can go horribly wrong. After spending some time on the streets, dogs who are saved typically exhibit indications of vitamin inadequacy and hair loss. (Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs)
Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs
Nutritional Deficiencies That Can Cause Hair Loss in Dogs
1. Vitamin A For Dogs
While many vitamins and minerals are beneficial to a dog’s health, few have as much of an influence on bodily functioning as vitamin A. Since this vitamin is fat-soluble, it needs fat or oil in the body to function properly. Consider fat as this kind of nutrient delivery system.
Nearly every bodily function is supported by vitamin A, which also supports the skeletal and reproductive systems and interacts with every organ system. For dogs, the recommended daily dose is 3.333 IU per kilogram of dry food. Leafy vegetables including spinach, carrots, milk, and liver are good sources of vitamin A. It is hence generally accessible.(Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs)
2. Vitamin E
One vitamin that strengthens a dog’s immune system is vitamin E. Furthermore, it’s critical for maintaining the health of the skin, eyes, and intestines. This vitamin functions by assisting in the skin’s and eyes’ cell membrane construction. Fat is metabolized by vitamin E, which facilitates the absorption of nutrients.
For example, vitamin E is necessary for vitamin C to perform its function in the immune system of the body. Vitamin E’s primary function is that of an antioxidant. Antioxidants like vitamin E are necessary when oxidative stress damages cells and DNA strands. These nutrients shield the dog’s body from free radicals, which harm several systems and can result in illnesses like cancer. Dogs should get 50 IU or more of vitamin E daily.
3. Biotin For Dogs
Extra vitamins and minerals are added to a number of dog meals to make sure our pets are getting the proper nourishment. You may be familiar with the ingredient biotin. Also known as B7, this vitamin is a part of the B-complex. This vitamin’s primary goal is to support healthy skin and hair.
Although most people are aware of this, biotin is a vital vitamin that is used for other purposes. Moreover, biotin can help heal immunological cells and maintain blood sugar levels. The B-complex vitamin aids in the breakdown of protein, fat, and carbs in the dog’s digestive tract before they are converted to energy.(Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs)
Read more: What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Hair Loss in Dogs?
4 .B12
Cobalamin, another name for vitamin B12, is one of the most crucial elements for cell division and repair. Since dogs cannot naturally generate this vitamin, they must get it from their diet or dietary supplements. Poultry and eggs, as well as organ meat like liver and kidney, are the highest nutrient-dense sources of B12.
To ensure their dogs are getting the recommended dosage of vitamin B12, dog owners should make sure they are providing their pets vet-approved food. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for the synthesis of red blood cells. These cells control the body’s oxygen levels, which are crucial for the health of a dog’s skin and for the regeneration of hair follicles.(Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs)
5. Zinc
Zinc deficiency is another cause of hair loss in dogs, as well as a whole host of serious health issues. This mineral plays a crucial role in cell replication and wound healing and it also supports healthy skin, nails, and hair. This mineral is different from water or fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, in that it is easily absorbed by the body.
Zinc will require protein to do its job, however, and zinc deficiency is often a result of protein deficiency in dogs. Mineral deficiencies in dogs don’t always lead to hair loss, but zinc and copper, which will get into soon, can cause dogs to lose hair. Mineral-rich foods such as beef, poultry, and seafood contain a lot of zinc, so most dog food does supply plenty of zinc.(Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs)
6. Copper
Although it can arise, copper deficiency is one of the uncommon nutritional deficiencies in dogs. Given the harm done to the hair follicle and pigment when it occurs, hair loss is quite prevalent. A lack of copper can also lead to various health issues including anemia and dry, cracked skin, as well as impair the healthy development of the reproductive system.(Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs)
Copper, a complex collection of enzymes that enhance hemoglobin formation and enhance immune system and cardiac function, is essential to the proper functioning of so many tissues in the dog’s body. The liver stores the copper that is taken up from the intestines. As a result, a dog’s body carrying an excessive amount of copper may eventually develop liver illness.
Read more: What vitamin deficiency causes hair loss in dogs?
7. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is often referred to as the ‘Sunshine Vitamin’ in humans. This is not the same for dogs though. This is because a dog’s skin doesn’t synthesize vitamin D in the same way that we do. Because of this, vitamin D is essential in a pet’s diet, as it’s the only place they can get it from.
As we’ve established, vitamin deficiencies in dogs can so often lead to hair loss, and vitamin D is no different. This essential vitamin regulates both calcium and phosphorus absorption in dogs.(Vitamin Deficiencies and Hair Loss in Dogs)
Read more: Help Your Dog How Not to Get Scared From Insects and Flies
Conclusion
Hair loss can indicate a serious health condition in addition to being a cosmetic concern. Vitamin B12, biotin, and vitamin A deficiencies are among the nutrients that may be involved in your dog’s hair loss. Complications may also arise from other deficits, such as those in fatty acids and minerals.
But there’s always a chance that there’s a medical ailment underlying the hair loss. To determine the cause of your dog’s hair loss, it is imperative that you take him to the veterinarian.
FAQ
Should I be concerned about my dog losing hair?
It’s normal for your dog to shed and lose hair, but when they start to lose hair in excess, that’s when it becomes a problem. There are many conditions that could cause hair loss in dogs. It could be due to something simple, like allergies, or it could be a result of a more serious health condition. So if you start to notice your dog is losing hair more than usual, consult your vet so you can get to the root of their hair loss.
What deficiency causes hair loss in dogs?
Minerals play an important role in the quality of a dog’s hair and skin. Copper deficiency can cause bald patches and loss of hair pigment. Zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, skin ulcers, and areas of skin thickening. If you improve your dog’s nutrition and focus on feeding them a well-balanced diet, their hair should grow back.
What home remedy will make my dog’s hair grow back?
There are many home remedies for dog hair loss, but pet owners should only use home remedies when instructed by their vet. Some home remedies for dog hair loss are melatonin, vitamin E oil, and fish oil.
Does Melatonin help dog hair grow back?
Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. It’s available as a supplement and is often used to help people with insomnia sleep better.
There is some anecdotal evidence that melatonin may help dogs with hair loss, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
If you’re considering giving your dog melatonin, talk to your veterinarian first. He can help you determine the correct dosage and monitor your dog for any side effects.
