Education Time: ALOPECIA
We’ve all heard rumors throughout our time as breeders about Alopecia in our breeds being caused by breeding dilute dogs together. Let’s debunk that. 🧯
After consulting with numerous breeders, groups, and educational forums, I’ve compiled a list of research-backed articles and studies. Education should always be rooted in facts, and nowhere in my findings is there evidence linking Alopecia to breeding dilute dogs together. Let’s dive in!
✨✨ Alopecia X ✨✨
Alopecia X is a specific type of Alopecia, distinct from other forms. It primarily affects plush and double-coated northern spitz-type breeds such as Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, Keeshonds, Pomeranians, Chow Chows, and Samoyeds. Research suggests these breeds may be predisposed to this condition due to genetic tendencies toward hormonal imbalances.
Medical Definition:
Alopecia X is an incompletely understood disorder often associated with abnormal levels of sex hormones (e.g., progesterone, estradiol, testosterone) from the adrenal glands. Dysfunctional hormonal receptors on hair follicles likely contribute as well.
Alternate Names:
Black Skin Disease
Growth Hormone-Responsive Alopecia
Castration-Responsive Alopecia
The coat funk
Pseudo-Cushing Syndrome
Biopsy-Responsive Alopecia
Follicular Dysplasia of the Siberian Husky
Adrenal Sex Hormone Alopecia
Hair Cycle Arrest
Key Takeaway:
Though further research is necessary, Alopecia X is not related to coat color. The issue is generally not Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA). Instead, it often stems from hormonal imbalances.
The belief that breeding dilute dogs causes alopecia is a misconception. Most cases of hair loss in our breeds are attributed to Alopecia X or related hormonal factors, not coat color. Let’s continue to educate and base our breeding practices on sound research for the health and well-being of our dogs.
CDA vs. Alopecia X
Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA) can occur but is more often linked to inbreeding. Historically, some breeders line-bred to produce dilute colors (e.g., blue), which increased the prevalence of skin and health issues in these lineages. A prime example is dd blue Dobermans.
Important Note: Dogs with any form of hair loss should not be bred, as many conditions causing hair loss have a genetic component. Alopecia X, in particular, requires ruling out other conditions like Cushing’s Disease and Hypothyroidism before diagnosis.
Physical Signs of Alopecia X:
Hair loss on the body, with dark pigmentation in affected areas.
Legs and head typically retain normal coat development.
Treatment Options:
Neutering: Often results in temporary or permanent hair regrowth due to hormonal changes.
Medical Treatments (under veterinary supervision):
Melatonin
Trilostane
Lysodren
Less common: methyltestosterone, prednisone, and lupron
Caution: Many treatments have potential side effects and require close veterinary monitoring.
References:
Wingeier, F. (2009). Alopecia X in Pomeranians - A Genome-Wide Association Analysis. Master Thesis, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Bern.
Mausberg, E.-M., et al. (2007). Evaluation of the CTSL2 Gene as a Candidate Gene for Alopecia X in Pomeranians and Keeshonden. Animal Biotechnology, 18(4), 291–296. https://doi.org/10.1080/10495390701547461
