Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is losing hair, has red/dark skin near tail, but no itch. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 60 lbs

18 month old intact female dog losing clumps of hair on back around tail. Red inflamed skin but no itching present. Started cephalexin 500mg 3 times daily for 4 days now. Affected skin has turned dark grayish. What is the problem? What should I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on July 6th, 2017

The most common reason for redness and hair loss in the lower back area is fleas. Put Nik on a flea prevention. If you can find an oral product, these typically work best. Environmental allergies or food allergies can also cause skin issues but rule out parasites first. The darker colored skin is in response to the inflammation in her skin. Typically a steroid or antihistamine can help decrease the inflammation. Talk to her veterinarian about what is the next most appropriate step.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Quite often when skin is inflamed the surface layer loses its blood supply and dies. I imagine this is why the skin is turning grey. It sounds like a bad infection or allergy, give the antibiotics a chance and if there is no improvement go back to the vet.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored