Colour Dilution Alopecia

Colour dilution alopecia is a pattern of hair loss that can occur in dogs whose coat colour comes from a diluted version of a standard pigment — blue (dilute black), fawn (dilute red), or silver tones. The hair itself tends to be more fragile than usual, and over time it may break, thin, or fall out, typically starting in the first few years of life. The skin underneath may look dry, flaky, or prone to minor infections. Owners often notice patchy thinning, a dull or moth-eaten appearance to the coat, or that their dog's coat never seems to grow back properly after clipping. The pattern usually develops gradually, and while the appearance can be concerning, the condition itself does not cause pain or systemic illness. This page walks through the signs that may be observed, what is understood about the underlying fragility of dilute-pigmented hair, how the pattern is investigated and distinguished from other causes of hair loss, and what approaches exist to support skin and coat health over time.