Alopecia is defined as abnormal hair loss that causes the skin to be exposed. Hair loss can be localized, regional, widespread, bilateral and symmetrical or asymmetrical. There are several categories of alopecia depending on the origin:

- Acquired alopecia

This can be associated with gender-neutral endocrinopathies (hyperthyroidism, Cushing's Syndrome, iatrogenic Cushing's Syndrome, pituitary dwarfism) or gender-specific (endocrine disorders from ovarian and testicular hormonal imbalances, Sertoli cell tumors, feminization syndrome in male dogs). It may be due to bacterial (pyoderma) or fungal infections, or the result of parasitic infections: mange (sarcoptic), demodectic mange, Cheyletiella infection, trombiculidiasis, pulicosis, flea allergy dermatitis or leishmaniasis. It could also be of unknown origin: acanthosis nigricans, seborrhea or pyotraumatic dermatitis.

- Hereditary alopecia

This can be inherited: congenital alopecia, color mutant alopecia (dobermans, setters, chow-chows). It can be associated with a necrotizing process: physical and chemical agents, deep pyoderma, severe mycosis, systematic or discoid lupus erythematosus or toxic epidermic necrosis. Finally, it can be neoplastic in origin.

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