My dog is balding after vacation. Can stress cause hair loss?

Question

We have a rescued yorki-poo. Age unknown, but looks like older dog. We left her with parents for 9 day vacation. Came home to find balding on both sides front half of body. Would stress cause this rapid balding? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | 4 lbs

Destini R. Holloway, DVM · Accepted Answer

Poor Suzy Q. Yes stress can potentially cause excessive licking in pets leading to balding areas on the skin. However so can other disease processes such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. It is best to watch for any other clinical signs of disease (i.e. vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy) and get her seen for further examination if seen. However if she is otherwise acting normal then it is warranted to monitor her for now to see if the hair regrows. You can brush her daily in the bald areas to help stimulate hair regrowth and offer her daily fish oils to help promote a healthy haircoat and skin. It can take the hair several weeks to months to fully regrow following stress licking. Calming collars (DAP collars) can also be used if she still continues to lick excessively.

My dog is balding after vacation. Can stress cause hair loss?

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