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Why is my overweight dog losing patches of fur? Is it diet or age?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 11 years and 3 months old | 64.4 lbs

My dog is losing small patches of her fur and I'm not sure if it's dietary, or just old age. She is extremely overweight,

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1 Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 11th, 2017

Hi, I'm Dr. Johnson. I think I just answered a question about Aysha! The tail tip doesn't worry me, a lot of dogs get the hairless area. My own dog has it. The other picture of the moth eaten appearance to her fur is not normal. A lot of skin conditions looks the same unfortunately. The hair loss could be form a skin infection (bacteria or yeast), from demodex (a non contagious mite) or ring worm. Also I know we were discussing her being over weight and a low thyroid. A low thyroid can predispose dogs to skin infections. Also food allergies can also. I think you have a few reasons to see your Vet now! Good luck!

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