Why is my 5-week-old puppy underweight, not eating, and losing fur?

Question

Hello, I just recently got a 5 week old puppy. His owners didn't take care of the mother dog too good while pregnant and the owner also didn't feed the babies or mother. When I got him, you could see his ribs, he hasn't eaten for two days. The 5 wk old puppy has small missing fur/or rash and one medium size one on his right (I think) side. Pet's info: Dog | Alano | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 6 days old | 2 lbs

Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA · Accepted Answer

When you say he hasn’t eaten in 2 days I am not clear if you mean he hadn’t eaten in the days before you got him, or if he hasn’t eaten with you the last 2 days. Puppies want to eat. If he is being offered food but not eating then I would be very concerned and recommend that he be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The hairless spots on the skin can be multiple problems, but most common would be a mite called demodex. It is usually seen when the immune system is weak. If there are just a few spots often they will resolve as the puppy grows and gets stronger. But if there are many areas or large areas there is a treatment available. I am more concerned about the eating than the skin at this point. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon! Thank you for using Pet Coach.

Why is my 5-week-old puppy underweight, not eating, and losing fur?

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