Non-colour-linked follicular dysplasia
Also known as: Non-color-linked follicular dysplasia · Follikuläre Dysplasie (nicht farbgebunden) · Familiäre Hypotrichose des Irischen Wasserspaniels · Follicular dysplasia of the Portuguese Water Dog · Structural follicular dysplasia · …
Overview
What it is
Non-colour-linked follicular dysplasia is an umbrella term for structural abnormalities affecting the hair follicles, the microscopic skin structures that produce hair. Unlike certain other follicle disorders, it occurs independently of the dog's coat colour and causes the follicles to progressively fail at generating healthy hair. Because there is no commercial genetic test, confirmation requires examining a small skin biopsy under a microscope.
How it presents
Owners usually notice progressive hair thinning and patchy baldness starting between two and four years of age, commonly beginning along the lower back and spreading to the trunk and tail. Over time, the hair loss tends to become permanent, though affected dogs otherwise feel healthy.
Treatment
There is no cure for the condition, but lifelong management focuses on protecting exposed skin from sunburn and managing occasional secondary skin infections. Routine skin care and supportive treatments typically range from €250 to €1,000 over time.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Frequently asked questions
What is Non-colour-linked follicular dysplasia?
Non-colour-linked follicular dysplasia is an umbrella term for structural abnormalities affecting the hair follicles, the microscopic skin structures that produce hair. Unlike certain other follicle disorders, it occurs independently of the dog's coat colour and causes the follicles to progressively fail at generating healthy hair. Because there is no commercial genetic test, confirmation requires examining a small skin biopsy under a microscope.
How is Non-colour-linked follicular dysplasia tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog.