Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My 8-year-old Shih Tzu is slowly losing hair. Why is this happening?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 28 lbs

I have an 8 year old Shitzu. He has slowly been loosing all of his hair. I don't know the reason. I have not changed his diet or shampoo.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 7th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Doodles! There can be many reasons for hair loss: bacterial or yeast skin infection, Demodex mites, endocrine disorders (low thyroid, cushings), alopecia x and there is a hair loss condition linked to intact make dogs. I would have him seen for blood work that includes thyroid testing and a skin scraping. Putting dogs on Nexgard or Bravecto can also rule out demodex. I wish you the best

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 15th, 2018

    Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. There are many causes of hair loss in dogs. Some causes are infectious such as bacterial or fungal skin infections. Other causes can be diseases such as hypothyroidism or cushings disease. Some causes are genetic and have to do with the hair follicles themselves. Skin parasites such as sarcoptic mange or demodectic mange can be the cause as well. However these skin parasites typically occur in young animals and if they occur in older animals it typically means that the immune system is suppressed. I would recommend having a veterinarian examine him so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further. I would recommend having his blood tested and skin scraped to start when you see the veterinarian.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored