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What is color dilution alopecia?

Color dilution alopecia (CDA) is a genetic, recessive, inherited condition that causes patches of hair thinning or loss and may also include flaky and/or itchy skin. The condition is associated with a “dilute” colored haircoat and is most commonly seen in dogs with a blue or fawn coat. These puppies are born with a normal-looking hair coat, and the clinical signs of CDA may begin to manifest at six months of age or older. While the disorder has been commonly described in blue Dobermans, it has been recognized in other breeds as well, including:

  • Chow Chow
  • Dachshund
  • Great Dane
  • Irish setter
  • Italian greyhound
  • Standard poodle
  • Saluki
  • Whippet
  • Yorkshire terrier
  • Bernese mountain dog
  • Chihuahua
  • Shetland sheepdog
  • Boston terrier
  • Newfoundland
  • Schipperke
  • Cane Corso
  • German shepherd
  • Labrador retriever
  • Miniature pinscher
  • Miniature schnauzer
  • Silky terrier

Color-dilute individuals carry a recessive color gene (dd) and demonstrate blue, blueish grey, lavender, or flesh-colored lips, noses, and eyelids. Deeply colored individuals carry either DD or Dd genes and demonstrate either black or liver-colored noses, lips, and eyelids.

What causes my dog to lose hair?

The cause of CDA is poorly understood. Dogs with CDA tend to have abnormalities in the hair follicles themselves, causing the follicles to self-destruct, making it impossible for them to grow new hairs. The haircoat is generally thin along the top of the dog and will eventually involve the trunk area.

Can color dilution alopecia affect my dog’s overall health status?

No, other than overall appearance, your dog’s health is not at risk. That said, there may be some skin-specific issues that emerge and need to be treated. Your dog may develop scaly skin in balding areas or may develop small bumps or pustules (pimples) associated with a bacterial skin infection. Some dogs with CDA experience itching that may need to be managed.

Is color dilution alopecia curable?

While CDA is not curable, it is straightforward to manage. Your veterinarian will determine the best way to proceed. Management may involve shampoos, rinses, and/or ointments to manage dry skin, scaling, or superficial infections. If needed, your veterinarian may prescribe oral antibiotics to treat a more severe skin infection. There may also be nutritional recommendations to maximize skin health in the face of CDA. Due to the inherited nature of this disease, dogs with CDA, their parents, and their siblings should not be used in breeding programs.

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