Why is my dog's hair falling out in a patch, but skin is okay?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 10 years and 10 months old | 23 lbs
My dogs hair is peeling off in a 1 inch size patch. The skin underneath is still there, so it is not an open wound. What could it be? I thought mange maybe?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 26th, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Yes, mange is possible. Other possibilities include allergies, ringworm, immune-mediated conditions, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. In the meantime, if she appears to be scratching or licking at it, you can use an e-collar to try to prevent further injury. Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 6th, 2018
I am sorry to hear about Andy! There can be a multitude of causes for hair loss in dogs. Parasites of the skin, such as fleas or mites, are one of the most common, particularly in young dogs. Infections of the skin with bacteria, yeast, or fungus, can also lead to hair loss. Allergies to food ingredients or environmental allergens, and endocrine disease can also lead to hair loss. I would recommend an exam at a veterinarian. They can look at the skin to see if there are signs of infection or parasites, which will help determine what the proper treatment will be. Best of luck to you!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on March 29th, 2017
This hair loss could be caused by a number of conditions, such as ringworm, mange, allergies, and endocrine conditions (hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease). Unfortunately, without a diagnosis of your dog's condition, it's hard to know if there is anything you can do at home. A vet will be able to perform an exam and any necessary testing, such as a skin cytology, skin scraping, Wood's lamp evaluation, and even blood testing if indicated. Irritated skin can become infected by licking and scratching.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 30th, 2017
Hair loss is usually due to excessive itching, from allergies or fleas. If this is the case, I would recommend a visit with the vet to get London started on an allergy medication and a good flea control. If you have not noticed any itching then the hair loss could be from an endocrine problem (the body system dealing with hormones). The two main diseases that can cause hair loss are hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. If you or your vet are concerned this may be the issue some blood work can be performed to rule these diseases out. I hope this helps. Good luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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