Why is my dog losing hair, has black nails, and is so skinny?

Question

My dog has thinning patch of hair on one side of his body. Then below of it was a bald patch but hair is coming back but its still of baldness. Is that mange? Also the roots of his nails are black but the rest is white. I dont know what this means. I went to the vet they said he was fine but i dont know. Last one, he eats alot i feed him threetimes a day, alsot since hes a big dog, but hes still skinny, i can feel his ribs. Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year old | 41.8 lbs

Lauren Jones VMD · Accepted Answer

Without examining Poseidon, it's difficult to identify the cause of his hair loss. Certainly mange is a possible cause of hair loss, but ringworm, endocrine/metabolic diseases, fleas, and skin infections can also cause similar signs. A skin scrape is needed to check for the presence of the mites that can cause mange. Changes in nail colors can be normal, but in some rare cases can indicate some nutritional deficiencies. Make sure Poseidon is fed a balanced commercial dog food so that he is receiving all appropriate vitamins and minerals. Ribs should be felt with a thin fat covering in dogs of a normal body weight, but should not be seen prominently. Your vet should be able to tell you if Poseidon's weight is appropriate at his next exam.

Why is my dog losing hair, has black nails, and is so skinny?

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