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Dogs/Thining hair on back/back hair darkening

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Expert: Karen Brittan - 10/27/2009


Question

Dogs Back
Please Help!
I have a 4 year miniature schnauzer. I noticed a few days ago that the hair on his back has gotten dark within an 8inch oval. I combed the hair and it came out in clumps. Now i can see through it and see his skin.  I dont know what to try. He is originally a grayish salt and pepper color.

Answer
Hair will darken like this when the skin has been "damaged" by something.

Your dog needs to be seen by a veterinarian, who will most likely culture one of the areas to determine exactly what the problem might be. One possible cause could be ringworm, as it will make the hair thin out in sort of a circular pattern, and the new hair will come in darker.

A good medicated shampoo for certain skin infections is KetoChlor by Virbac.

http://www.dogchatforum.com/ringworm-in-dogs.htm

Karen Brittan

Expertise

I have been showing miniature schnauzers in conformation, obedience, and earthdog for forty years, and am a professional dog groomer. I am not a veterinarian and cannot answer questions of a veterinary nature. However, I can give my opinion or share some experiences on some health issues. Everyone should remember that this is a volunteer service, and few of us are up late into the night. Medical emergencies require a veterinary visit, or at least a telephone call... not an internet question which might not be viewed and answered until hours later. If your dog is sick or injured, it should be seen by a licensed professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Experience

I have taught obedience classes and have taught people how to groom for many years.

Learn more about me and my dogs: http://britmorschnauzers.com

Organizations
Member of: American Miniature Schnauzer Club; Twin Cities Miniature Schnauzer Club; Twin Cities Obedience Training Club; Elk River Kennel Club; Minnesota Professional Pet Groomers Association; Greater Twin Cities Earthdog Club.

Education/Credentials
Fifty-one years of living with, observing, and training dogs, along with numerous seminars during that time.

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