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My dog has a bald spot on his tail. What's the cause and treatment?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rat Terrier | Male | neutered | 2 years and 8 months old | 25 lbs

my dog has a small bald patch on his tail he does not appear to be licking or biting it, what treatment can i get to restore his hair on the bald spot

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 6th, 2017

A bald spot could be caused by allergies, skin infection, mites, ringworm, etc. You could bath him with a medicated dog shampoo and see if that helps. If not, have your vet examine him to determine the cause. He may need an antibiotic, anti-histamine, corticosteroid, or other medications to help treat the problem. You could also add Free Form Snip Tips to his diet and see if that helps to keep his skin and coat healthy.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on December 15th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This lesion you describe could potentially be something like an abscess or skin infection for example. However, other things are possible. I recommend that you have Smudge evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. If an abscess was noted, further local therapy with drainage and antibiotics would be recommended. Good luck and best wishes!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 13th, 2020
You can try using this Vetericyn Hot Spray on the affected area. If after a week of using it, the lesion is not looking better your vet should check him. It could be an abrasion/injury, it could be ringworm, it could be eosinophilic granuloma complex..... I can't tell you for sure just by looking at a photo.

You will also need to get him a cone collar to stop her from licking it. As long as she licks it, it will not heal.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 26th, 2019
It is very hard to know what caused this but it could be just an injury. I wouldn't be overly concerned about this right now. I suggest you just apply a topical antibiotic ointment/cream twice a day and if after a week or so it doesn't start to look better you should have your vet check him out. Best wishes!
5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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