Coat Color Dilution Alopecia

Body function:

Skin

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Coat color dilution alopecia is a hereditary skin condition seen primarily in dogs with color-diluted coats, such as blue or fawn-colored dogs. It's caused by a genetic mutation that affects pigment distribution in the hair follicles.

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List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

American Staffordshire Terrier, Beagle, Belgian Malinois, Doberman Pinscher, German Pinscher, Large Munsterlander, Miniature Pinscher, Rhodesian Ridgeback

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What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no cure for the condition. Instead, care focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing secondary infections. Regular grooming and specialized shampoos can help manage scaliness and maintain skin health. Monitoring for signs of bacterial infections is crucial, and infections should be treated quickly.

Symptoms

Dogs with CDA usually appear normal at birth but begin to show signs of hair loss and skin abnormalities as they age, typically between 4 and 18 months. The progressive condition leads to partial or total hair loss and may result in secondary skin infections.

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