Why does my dog have hair loss around the eyes and lips?
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Overview
Hair loss around a dog’s eyes and lips can happen for a few different reasons, and mange is one of them. It can also be linked to rubbing, allergies, skin irritation, infection or other skin conditions, so it’s best to look at the pattern rather than assume one cause.
If the skin looks sore, itchy or red, or the bald areas are spreading, that’s useful information to note before speaking to a vet.
Things To Check
1. Look at whether the hair loss is patchy or more even, and note if it’s only around the eyes, lips or elsewhere too.
2. Check for redness, scabs, crusting, swelling, broken skin or any discharge around the eyes or mouth.
3. See whether your dog is rubbing their face on carpets, furniture, grass or their paws, which can make thinning worse.
4. Notice if the skin seems itchy, tender or warm, as this can point towards irritation or inflammation.
5. Think about whether anything has changed recently, such as grooming products, food, bedding, walking routes or contact with other animals.
6. Check whether any other pets in the home have skin changes, itching or patchy hair loss.
7. Take a clear photo today and then again in a few days so you can tell if it’s staying the same or getting worse.
Common Causes
Mange is one possible cause, especially if there’s itching, crusting or spreading patchy hair loss. It can affect the face and may look more noticeable around the eyes, lips, ears or muzzle.
Allergies or general skin irritation are also common. Dogs may rub their face, which can lead to thinning hair and irritated skin.
Infection, including bacterial or yeast-related skin problems, can sometimes cause local hair loss, particularly if the skin is red, greasy, smelly or sore.
Less commonly, hair loss in these areas may be linked to other skin conditions, parasites or rubbing from something around the face, such as a collar, harness or bedding.
What To Do
Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid using human creams or home remedies on the face unless your vet has told you to.
Try to stop any obvious rubbing if you can, and wash bedding regularly to reduce ongoing irritation.
Make a note of any changes in itching, crusting, discharge or spread of the hair loss. That pattern can help your vet work out what’s going on.
If your dog is otherwise well and the area is mild, short-term monitoring can be sensible, but don’t wait too long if it’s worsening or your dog seems uncomfortable.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the hair loss is spreading, the skin is sore or infected-looking, your dog is very itchy, or there’s discharge near the eyes or lips. Face problems can become uncomfortable quite quickly, and your vet can check whether mange or another skin issue is more likely.
Products That May Help
For skin, coat and grooming routines, this collection may be useful as part of keeping your dog comfortable and helping you stay on top of general coat care while you monitor the cause.
Related Questions
Is hair loss around my dog’s eyes always mange?
Can allergies cause bald patches around a dog’s mouth?
Why is my dog rubbing their face and losing fur?
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.