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My dog has a bald spot with scabs. Why isn't hair growing back?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 60 lbs

SMALL BALD SPOT THOUGHT AT FIRST A LUMP OF HAIR TAKEN WHEN PLAYING A BIT ROUGH WITH OTHER DOG. hAIR NOT GROWN BACK AND NOW SEEMS A LITTLE SCABBY

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on March 7th, 2017

Scabbing/hair loss can be caused by a number of things including infections from bacteria/yeast/fungus on the skin, allergies, metabolic changes internally, wounds or scratches, parasites, and more. Making sure Rosie is on a good monthly flea and tick preventive may help if you see parasites. If the area is not improving or is expanding in size it is best to have your vet take a look. They may recommend taking a skin scraping of the area to have it tested for possible causes. Be sure to also let your vet know of any other changes such as changes in appetite or energy levels. As some infections can be contagious to other pets and people, washing your hands after handling the area is best to help minimize spread.

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Related Answers from Veterinarians

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 20th, 2018

    This looks like a healing hot spot or skin infection. These usually start from an insect bite or mild injury then the dog makes it worse by licking. On your dog it now looks like the area has scabbed over and there is some hairloss. If this is the only area I would give it another few days to heal. If he has many of these areas then I would go to a veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment. Usually they will clean the area, perhaps give a topical medication or oral antibiotics. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for King.

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