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Why are my dog's skin spots getting darker and hair thinning?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 6 months old | 10 lbs

Hi, my dogs skin is very spotted and people have told Me they think the spots are getting darker. I feel they have been the same but her hair is thinning as well on her back

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on June 7th, 2020

Thinning hair and a darkening of the skin could indicate something like allergies, a diet that is not right for her, fleas or (less likely) and endocrine condition. There are a couple things you can do at home and they can help but they may not address the underlying cause. You can try adding in an omega 3 fatty acid supplement for dogs, this can help improve the skin health. You may also try changing her diet to something like Royal Canin or Nutro as they are aimed at skin health. If Zoey is wanting to itch the area, you need to protect the area from trauma by having your pup wear an elizabethan collar at all times. Make sure she is up to date on flea prevention. Diets and supplements take 2-4 weeks to take effect. If the changes are not improving after 2 weeks or if they are getting worse, have Zoey examined by the veterinarian. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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