My dog's tail is thinning and body hair isn't growing. What's wrong?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 8 months old
My dog is 5 yrs old and he normally has a busy tail but over last few months it’s looking thinner and he has not grown his body hair as long as I normally have to have it trimmed regularly
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 20th, 2018
Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If the hair thinning seems to be on the tail and the rest of his body and he is not itching, licking, or scratching the hair loss, then it may be due to an underlying endocrine disease such as Cushing's disease, diabetes, or hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). I would recommend Hugo see his veterinarian soon for this. Your veterinarian will do a physical exam and may recommend blood work to check for any underlying health conditions such as the ones mentioned above among others to help determine a cause so he can get treated most appropriately. I hope this helps and thanks again for posting!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 16th, 2019
Sometimes the hair growth and loss cycles can become synchronized. As long as the skin looks normal and he does not appear itchy, you may monitor this for now. If the hair loss continues or does not regrow an underlying thyroid issue may be to blame. When in doubt, have him examined by his veterinarian. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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