My rescued dog is losing hair in clumps on his head and face. Why?

Question

I rescued my dog from a shelter and he was pretty emaciated.. I’ve had him for 31 days and he’s losing hair on the top of his head, around his mouth, and right eye and the top of his nose as well as a few very small missing patches on his front legs. The right side of his face seems to be missing more hair than the left. The hair fell out I’m clumps, like the follicle detached from his skin and just sloughed off. There are no break in the skin or open sores associated with this occurrence. Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Bubba! How old is Bubba? A lot of skin conditions can look the same. But from your photos I think either a skin infection from yeast or bacteria, ring worm or demodex (non-contagious mite). If he is older I recommend having blood work done, some systemic illnesses can manifest in the skin. If he has a skin infection then medicated shampoo and antibiotics or antifungals are needed. If demedex is suspected, especially if he is young, than your Vet will perform a skin scrape to look for the mite under the microscope. Thankfully demodex is very easy to treat these days with the new oral flea and tick medications (Nexgard and Bravecto). Ring worm is diagnosed with a cultured and is treated with either lyme sulfur dips or oral antifungals. I think it is best to make an appointment with your Vet when they open on Monday and start medications based on your Vet's diagnosis. I hope this helps and I wish you and Bubba the best!

My rescued dog is losing hair in clumps on his head and face. Why?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

Why does my pet have a crusty nose and sneeze often? Is it serious?

My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?

Share