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Why is my dog losing hair on his back? Should I be concerned?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 5 months old | 12.5 lbs

why is my dog losing hair from his back?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 15th, 2018

Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There is a variety of reasons that can explain alopecia or hair loss. The causes can easily be differentiated by the clinical signs associated with it and the physical exam findings as well as diagnostics. If Melo is only showing some hair loss without scratching or overgrooming then it could conditions such as alopecia areata that can affect dogs and usually resolves on its own. If there is evidence of scratching and you start noticing some redness or irritation associated with it, then other conditions such as allergies are possible. If you notice him overgrooming himself in that area then it could be something like psychogenic alopecia which is more of a behavioral issue. I think that since he is not having overt clinical signs and it is mostly hair loss, I think it is possibly transient and could resolve on its own. You can monitor this closely and if it does not resolve or it worsens then have him examined by your veterinarian. Good luck!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 12th, 2019

    This could be from fleas or it may be a skin infection (or both). If you don't have him on a flea prevention I would do that. I would suggest Advantix II that you can buy over the counter at any large pet store. You can also try this medicated shampoo in case it is a skin infection but honestly, he probably needs to see a vet. He will most likely need oral antibiotics to clear this up. ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/k9-advantix-ii-topical-extra-large-dog-flea-and-tick-treatment ) ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/sulfodene-medicated-shampoo-and-conditioner-for-dogs )

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 17th, 2018

    This looks like a local area of skin infection and resultant hairloss. The infection could be bacterial or fungal in nature and could have been caused by external parasites (fleas, mites) or an allergy to something in the environment. If this is the only spot present on Stryker then you can try to treat it topically with some antibiotic ointment. If, however, he is excessively itchy and there is more than one spot present, I would recommend you take him to your vet to be examined. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

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