What should I do if my dog’s greasy coat comes with hair loss? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has a greasy coat and noticeable hair loss, it’s worth taking a closer look. It can happen for a few different reasons, from skin irritation or overactive oil production to parasites, allergies or an underlying health issue.
You may be able to spot clues at home, but you usually can’t tell the cause for certain just by looking. The main aim is to check for skin changes, monitor how quickly it’s developing and decide whether your dog needs a vet exam.
Things To Check
1. Look at where the hair loss is happening. Patchy areas, a wider thin coat, or bald spots can suggest different causes.
2. Check the skin underneath for redness, flakes, scabs, sores, blackheads or a bad smell.
3. Feel for heat, tenderness or swelling, especially if your dog seems bothered when you touch the area.
4. Notice whether your dog is scratching, licking, rubbing or chewing the area more than usual.
5. Think about any recent changes in food, bedding, grooming routine, shampoo, walks or exposure to muddy or wet conditions.
6. Look for fleas or signs of other parasites, including flea dirt, scabs near the tail base or small sore areas.
7. Check whether your dog seems otherwise well, with normal energy, appetite and behaviour.
8. Make a note of how fast it’s changing, since a new or quickly worsening coat problem is more useful to a vet than one that’s been stable for a long time.
Common Causes
The most common reason is a skin and coat problem that affects oil production or coat quality, such as seborrhoea, which can make the coat feel greasy and lead to shedding or thinning.
Allergies, including flea allergy or environmental or food-related irritation, can also cause oily skin, licking and hair loss.
Parasites, such as fleas or mites, may lead to scratching, scabbing and patchy hair loss, sometimes with a greasy or dull coat as well.
Less commonly, hormone-related conditions or other medical issues can affect the skin and coat and cause thinning, oiliness or poor coat quality.
What To Do
Start by keeping a simple record of where the hair loss is, whether the coat feels greasy all over or just in certain places, and whether your dog is itchy or uncomfortable.
Use a gentle grooming routine and avoid over-washing, as too much bathing can sometimes make the skin harder to settle. If you do bathe your dog, choose a dog-safe shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
Keep an eye on parasites, especially if your dog spends time outdoors or around other animals. If you suspect fleas, treat the wider environment as well as your dog, using appropriate guidance for your household.
Try to keep bedding clean and dry, and note any patterns linked to exercise, weather, or grooming products.
If the problem is persistent, spreading, smelly, very itchy, or your dog seems unwell, arrange a vet check so the cause can be properly assessed.
When To Contact A Vet
Book a vet appointment if the hair loss is spreading, your dog’s skin is red, sore, smelly or infected-looking, or if the coat change is happening alongside itching, pain or obvious discomfort. It’s also sensible to get advice if your dog has lost condition, seems unwell, or the problem is not improving with routine grooming and care.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s coat is greasy or harder to keep clean, the right grooming and care basics can make routine washing and coat maintenance a bit easier.
Related Questions
Why does my dog’s coat feel greasy even after washing?
Can fleas cause hair loss and a greasy coat?
When should I get a greasy coat checked by a vet?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.