3 month old puppy losing fur due to shampoo.?

Question

After using "Magic Coat® Moisturizing Merlot Shampoo" my puppy began to lose its fur. I am pointing my finger at the shampoo because where the shampoo made direct contact onto his coat, its fur looks like it became really brittle and dry looking, like dreadlocks.

Before his first bath, his fur was really thin and fluffy-like (chihuahua-terrier mix) and pretty much just looks like a long haired chihuahua.

I feel like if I take him to the vet, all they're going to do is give me some placebo and are just going to slap me with an unnecessary bill.

Should I wait it out? Could it have been an allergic reaction, and if it seems like it is, how can they tell what ingredient triggered it?

I should add that his personality hasn't change (still a ball full of energy) and eats, sleeps and does his business as usual. The only difference I notice about him is the loss of fur under his belly and a line going down his back where I dripped the shampoo on him.

Answer 1

If the hair loss is significant I think you should at least CALL the vet. It sounds like you have some kind of distrust with the vet and that you assume they will load you up on stuff you don't need. I can tell you with complete honesty that I trust my vet and don't think he would ever rip me off(My family has used the same vet since before I was born). Build a good relationship with your vet and it will pay off!

I wouldn't suggest washing the dog with anything but clean water until his skin looks better. More soap of any kinds will just dry the skin out more. I really would just call the vet and see what they have to say. You don't have to go in if you don't want to, but they should be able to let you know over the phone if they think it warrants a visit. I'm sure he will be fine, but I would hate if the irritation got worse and he lost more hair. Good luck,

Answer 2

Try a couple different shampoos before the vet

Answer 3

If it was me and I knew it was the shampoo I'd wait it out. And Dog shampoo's have got to be diluted in a jug then poured over the dog, put on neat on Dogs/Puppies ist good. Was it puppy shampoo, that you used?

Answer 4

There are plenty of dogs who have allergic reactions to shampoo, or just have sensitive skin. Specific shampoos are sold to help combat dry, sensitive, or allergenic skin. Medicated shampoos may work as well, just read the bottle thoroughly to make sure it's medicated for the condition you're looking to treat.

If you find that nothing works, and the reaction keeps occurring, it could be an allergy that needs to be medicated by your vet.

Answer 5

you should take it to a vet or just use a different dog shampoo  

Answer 6

Sounds like an allergy. Use baby shampoo, or something like aveeno oatmeal bath to add moisture to his skin and fur. It's only fur--it will grow back.