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Color mutant alopecia is a condition of the coat associated with blue (dilute
black) or fawn (dilute brown) coat colors. It affects blue, and occasionally
red, Doberman Pinschers. Despite the name, other breeds can have
a hair loss linked to coat color. Most notable are blue Chow
Chows, Dachshunds, Whippets, Standard Poodles, and Great Danes.
What are the symptoms?
Most dogs who develop this condition are born with (except for color) normal
appearing coats. Symptoms generally develop in dogs 4 months to 3 years
of age. As they grow and mature, they develop brittle hair, followed by patchy
hair loss sometimes referred to as a 'moth-eaten'coat. Only the blue
portions of the coat are affected. Other colored areas remain normal. Secondary
infection and inflammation of the hair follicles is also seen.
What are the risks?
Initially, the dog will appear quite normal, but with a thin coat in the
blue areas. As the condition advances, the skin also becomes involved and
can become infected.
What is the management?
The condition is incurable. Treatment, however, may help alleviate some of
the symptoms. Medicated shampoos such as benzoyl peroxide may help
reduce scaling and itching.
© 2001 Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com
(http://www.PetEducation.com)
On-line store at
http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com
Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208
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