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Why is my dog's skin turning black and her hair falling out suddenly?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 2 months old

Yes my dogs skin is turning black and her hair is falling out I'm wondering what could it be

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on April 7th, 2016

It may be due to true skin problems like allergy or skin infection. However, if she doesn't show excessive skin itchiness or redness she may have hormonal problems (diabetes, underactive thyroid gland, overactive adrenal gland etc). You shoud get her checked by your vets. They are likely to recommend skin testing and blood test to find out what is going on.

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5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This could be a condition called Black Skin Disease or Alopecia X, This is a hair cycle abnormality that affects primarily Nordic breeds and Toy or Miniature Poodles. It can affect both sexes regardless of neutering. It can first occur as early as 1 year of age or as late as 10 years of age. It is important that your vet rule out other causes of hairloss first before diagnosing alopecia X. If your dog is not eating or drinking or eating and drinking excessively, is depressed, then it is important to look for another cause of the hair loss. as alopecia X does not have any systemic signs associated with it, Treatment for alopecia X would be neutering/spaying, sometimes oral melatonin. Other hormone treatments have serious side effects but may be used after careful consideration, Please take your dog to a vet soon.

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