There are a few health issues that might cause your dog to start graying. One of these conditions is hypothyroidism. Dogs with hypothyroidism have underperforming thyroid glands. Hypothyroidism also causes a variety of other symptoms including weight gain and skin problems. Getting your dog proper treatment for hypothyroidism should reverse the graying of the fur.
Sometimes, the reason your dog’s fur is turning white is a condition call vitiligo. Vitiligo is a rare skin condition that can cause pigment loss in certain patches of skin and fur. While the causes of vitiligo are unknown, many scientists believe that the condition is hereditary. However, it is clear that vitiligo occurs when something happens to the melanin-producing cells in your dog’s body.
Vitiligo affects all dogs a little differently. Some dogs will lose pigmentation on their entire body, while others will only be affected in certain spots. Depigmentation can also spread over the first few months of the condition’s appearance. Vitiligo can also cause skin lesions and dandruff. Fortunately, all of the symptoms of vitiligo are painless for your pooch.
Have you started to notice that your dog’s fur is turning white or gray? While it can be shocking to suddenly realize your pet’s fur has changed color, there might not be anything wrong with your beloved dog. AVES is here to tell you about the reasons your dog’s fur might be turning a white or gray color.
A few breeds are more likely to be genetically predisposed to graying. Schnauzers are known for their gray beards, while greyhounds and Weimaraners are naturally gray in color. It is also common for black dogs to start showing gray earlier than lighter colored dogs.
The Influence of Stress in Premature Greying in Dogs
We’ve all heard that stress can cause premature grey hairs, but can the same be said for our canine companions? Scientists are trying to figure this out, but early research points to yes.
One recent study surveyed the owners of 400 dogs aged 1-4 who were showing signs of premature greying. Based on answers provided researchers concluded that psychological stress & anxiety may indeed play a role in the premature greying of young dogs.
Researchers were able to predict premature greying in dogs that exhibited anxious or impulsivity behaviors at home. These include:
The study did not find any predictors of premature greying when looking at a dogs age, size, sex or spay/neuter status.
In a few instances your dogs early graying could be caused by a medical issue. If you suspect your dog has a medical problem please consult your veterinarian.
One of the main symptoms of hypothyroidism is multiple hair changes which includes hair loss, coarseness, dark skin pigmentation, and premature greying of the muzzle.
The Influence of Genetics On Going Grey
Genetics is a big influence in premature greying, in both dogs and humans. The pigment cells that give hair it’s youthful color are called melanocytes, and when they die off or grow incorrectly greying starts to occur.
The pigment cells responsible for our hair color undergo levels of cellular stress that lead to greying. When they die off or develop in the wrong part of the hair follicle our hair goes grey.