Replied by Jan (Madison, Wi) on 05/15/2012
My dog developed a large bald spot on his lower back. He was also developing black spots on his skin and his eyes were always running.
The vet checked his thyroid and ran blood work, also checked him for mites. No problems there. It was suggested that I try an allergy diet which consisted of changing him to duck or some exotic food he's never been exposed to then adding in one ingredient at a time. (It was super expensive.)
I tried lots of other topical remedies, including vinegar and coconut oil. Nothing helped. I changed the dog to a corn-free dog food and that helped the eyes, but not the coat. But then, the vet suggested a teeth cleaning. During the exam, they discovered two very rotten teeth, which were pulled. Within a month, the hair started growing back, his eyes quit running and now, 6 months later, his coat is thick and silky again.
So I would suggest to pet owners to have their pet's teeth checked along with a general exam and also checking their pet food to see if they have some allergy. (I recently switched to a cheaper dog food when I ran out and got some at the drug store. The dog was itching and licking his paws within 2 days. I had to throw the food out.)
