Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 7/27/2005

Question
My dog got a summer cut in early June as he does every year. His fur has not grown back as it usually does. Some spots it has grown back very thin and some spots it hasn't grown back at all. What could this mean?

Answer
This is called post clipping alopecia and is not uncommon in certain breeds like Chows and Huskies.  We think that there are certain changes that take place in the skin because of the temperature changes that occur when the hair is clipped.  Most dogs will regrow their hair within 24 months.  I have used Melatonin to help stimulate the hair follicles with some limited success.  Check with your vet on that.