dog hair loss around eyes

Question
My Maltese is 5 years old (neutered)and very healthy. But a little over a month ago, I noticed he is losing his hair around his eyes.  This has gotten worse the last few weeks or so.  He has never had this problem before.  Is there something wrong or am I imagining this? Do you know what this might be?  Thanks!!!!

Answer
Hi Janet,

First of all, is your dog itching around his face where there is hair loss? Demodectic mange, also called "demodicosis" is a parasitic infestation of the skin. This form of mange is not transmitted to people or other dogs. Common symptoms include hair loss and itching and inflammation on the face. The mites prefer to live on areas of the skin that have less hair. As the infection worsens it can spread over the entire body.
An adult dog usually does not get deodicosis unless it has an underlying problem with its immune system. Your  veterinarian should be consulted regarding a diagnosis and treatment for this.

Aside from deodicosis, there are many diseases and conditions which can cause a dog to lose hair, ranging from autoimmune disorders, hereditary, Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism),allergic reactions, and Seborrhea.

The best advice I can offer is to take your dog to the vet, since it's impossible to self-diagnosis this. Your dog may need treatment.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti