IIRC, the vet said it was a genetic defect, where one of the feather follicles grows crooked and ends up running right into the follicle next to it, becoming the equivalent of an impacted hair.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a very similar genetic defect in that one of those hairs at the top of that ridge will occasionally sprout the bulb on the side of the follicle wall. where it either starts growing sideways or straighf down. Can be dangerous or even fatal for the RR (they get spinal infections easily). The treatment once it’s discovered post-birth is to have the affected follicle cut out, then have the affected dog sterilized so that it cannot pass then along. They’re then sent home with anti-inflammatory meds and pain pills.

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