Black Lab Grey Hairs: What's The Cause? (2025)

It is normal for Labrador Retrievers to develop grey hair as they age, especially around the eyes, mouth, and nose. However, if your black Labrador is young and has started to develop grey hair, it may be due to stress, genetics, or a medical issue. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian to rule out any potential health concerns and ensure your dog's overall well-being. A healthy diet that includes antioxidants can also help delay the greying process.

It is normal for black labs to get grey hairs from the age of two

It is perfectly normal for black Labradors to get grey hairs from the age of two. While grey hairs are more noticeable on dogs with darker coats, it is a common occurrence for Labs to start greying around the muzzle, chin, and neck areas from a young age. This is because the hair follicles produce fewer melanin-producing cells, which is the pigment that gives hair and fur its colour.

Some dogs are predisposed to greying early, just as some people do. It is often genetic, and it is not uncommon for Labs to start showing signs of greying from as young as two years old. It is simply a characteristic of the breed.

However, it is important to note that if you notice sudden changes, new patches of white or grey hair, or premature greying (under seven years of age), it is recommended to consult a veterinarian to rule out any potential medical concerns. Conditions such as Cushing's disease, vitiligo, allergies, or hypothyroidism can cause changes in fur colour. Additionally, some owners have reported that their Labs developed grey hairs due to stress or trauma.

If your black Lab is healthy and shows no other signs of concern, then those grey hairs are likely nothing to worry about and are simply a part of the natural ageing process for this breed.

Stress can cause grey hairs in dogs

While age is one of the most common reasons for dogs to go grey, it is not the only factor. Some dogs start greying as early as two years old, and it is not uncommon for dogs to develop grey hairs on their muzzles and faces as early as three or four.

Stress and anxiety can cause dogs to go grey prematurely. Researchers at Northern Illinois University studied 400 dogs between the ages of one and four years old. They found that young dogs who displayed signs of anxiety were more likely to have grey hairs on their muzzles. Additionally, female dogs were more likely to go grey prematurely than males.

Other signs of anxiety in dogs may include shedding, humping, and yawning. Fear responses to loud noises, unfamiliar animals, and people were also associated with increased greying. If you think your dog may be experiencing anxiety, it is important to speak to a veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist to determine the best course of action to reduce your dog's stress.

Genetics can also play a role in premature greying in dogs. Some breeds, such as Schnauzers, Greyhounds, and Weimaraners, are more likely to develop grey hairs at a younger age. Additionally, certain health issues, such as hypothyroidism, can cause grey hairs in dogs.

It is worth noting that white markings and individual white hairs are normal in black Labradors. These markings are a throwback to their ancestors, the now-extinct St. John's Water Dog.

Grey hairs could be a sign of a rare skin condition called vitiligo

It is not unusual for black Labradors to have grey hairs, even at a young age. While this is usually harmless, it could be a sign of a rare skin condition called vitiligo.

Vitiligo is a condition that causes skin to lose its natural pigment, a process called depigmentation. It can affect the skin, gums, mucosa, and hair, creating white patches where there would normally be colour. It is unclear what causes vitiligo, but it is believed to be hereditary. It is also believed to be caused by something happening to the melanin-producing cells in a dog's body. Melanocytes are cells in the skin that are responsible for pigmentation. If these cells become altered or damaged, the skin and/or coat will lose its pigment.

Vitiligo is rare, but certain dog breeds are at a higher genetic risk of developing this condition, including purebred dogs. It is also more noticeable in black dogs. While vitiligo is painless and does not cause any health issues, it can make the skin more vulnerable to sunburn, so sunscreen or clothing may be needed to protect the skin.

If you are concerned about your dog's grey hairs, it is best to consult a veterinarian, who can perform a full physical examination and review your dog's medical history. They may also take a skin biopsy to confirm vitiligo or rule out other conditions. While there is currently no effective treatment for vitiligo, there are several management options that can be discussed with a veterinarian, such as increasing exposure to the sun or reducing stress.

A change in diet can prevent grey hairs

While grey hairs on a black Labrador can be startling, they are usually not a cause for concern. It is not uncommon for Labradors to develop grey hairs as early as 2 years old. In fact, white markings and individual white hairs are normal in black Labs, and some Labs even have white chest fur and small white patches on their chests, known as "tuxedo markings." These markings are a throwback to the now-extinct St. John's Water Dog, an ancestor of the Labrador breed.

However, if you are concerned about your black Lab's grey hairs, there are a few potential causes and solutions to consider. One possible reason for the grey hairs could be stress or anxiety. Significant life changes, prolonged stress, or anxiety can impact a dog's coat health and may lead to the premature appearance of grey hair. If you suspect your dog is stressed, look for other signs such as nervous habits like pacing or shaking, heavy breathing, or a loss of interest in daily activities. Your veterinarian can assess your dog for stress and offer solutions, including medication and lifestyle changes.

Another factor that can contribute to premature greying in dogs is diet. Nutritional deficiencies, especially in crucial vitamins and minerals like zinc and copper, can affect coat pigmentation and lead to premature grey hairs. Therefore, ensuring your dog has a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients is essential for maintaining their overall health, including the health of their coat. You can ask your veterinarian about adding a multivitamin supplement to your dog's diet to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients.

Additionally, premature greying in dogs can sometimes be a symptom of underlying health issues. Conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, liver or kidney disease, or vitiligo may manifest as changes in coat colour, including premature greying. Regular visits to the veterinarian are important so that they can spot any gradual changes in your dog's health and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions.

While it can be worrying to see grey hairs on your beloved black Lab, it's important to remember that greying is a natural part of the aging process for dogs, just like it is for humans. However, by being proactive about your dog's health through regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, and stress management, you can help ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy for years to come.

Grey hairs could be hereditary

While there are several reasons why your black Labrador may be growing grey hairs on its back, one of the possibilities is that it is hereditary.

Genetics can play a role in when a dog's hair starts to turn grey. Just like some people start greying before the age of 30, even perfectly healthy dogs might be genetically predisposed to early greying. Some breeds are more likely to be genetically predisposed to greying, such as Schnauzers, Greyhounds, and Weimaraners. It is also common for black dogs to start showing grey earlier than lighter-coloured dogs.

In addition, premature greying is a dominant gene in dogs. This means that even if your dog is a mixed breed, it may have inherited the gene from a purebred ancestor.

There are other potential reasons for your Labrador's grey hairs, such as stress, diet, or underlying health conditions like hypothyroidism or liver or kidney disease. If you are concerned about your dog's grey hairs, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian. They can assess your dog for signs of stress or health issues and offer solutions, including medication and lifestyle changes.

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