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Why is my dog's skin peeling with hair loss after a recent move?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year old | 22 lbs

My Boston Terrier has small patches of skin(fingerprint size) peeling on his belly, and hind legs. His skin is not discolored but his hair is missing from those patches. We just moved from TN to SD so I'm not sure if the snowy weather could be an affect. I only noticed it after the move. What could it be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 18th, 2018

Hello. It looks to be a bacterial infection on Murphy's skin. These are often very treatable using a medicated antibacterial shampoo available from your veterinarian. The stress from your move may have set things off, but it is very treatable. Once your vet confirms there is nothing else going on with Murphy she will prescribe the appropriate medicated shampoo. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 18th, 2018
Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. You gave a good description, but a picture tells a thousand words. I would recommend reposting your question with a picture of Murphy's skin so that we can get a thorough evaluation of what may be going on here.
However, from what you have described, it sounds like Muprhy may have some skin allergies and possibly a secondary bacterial infection going on. This is treated with allergy medicine through your vet, because over the counter anithistamines are not as effective in dogs as they are in people. A medicated shampoo may also be needed to help resolve Murphy's skin problems.
I still encourage you to repost your question with a picture so that we can confirm our suspicions of a skin allergy.
Best of luck to you and Murphy and we hope to hear back from you soon!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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