Question: My dog is losing her hair and she also has a terrible odor. Is this because of stress? What can I do about this?

ANSWER: Hair loss in dogs can have one (or several) of a list of causes ranging from a primary skin condition such as a bacterial infection, nutritional problems, etc, hormonal problems (such as hypothyroidism, or problems with other hormones such as estrogen or adrenal gland problems), allergies (inhaled, food or contact allergies), parasites (fleas, intestinal parasites, different forms of mange), fungal infections (ringworm, yeast, etc.. The hair loss may not be related to a skin problem but an internal problem or even a problem with the dog's immune system. Any hair loss should be diagnosed properly by your veterinarian so that an appropriate treatment plan can be implemented. Sometimes, your vet may suggest a skin biopsy and send it to a veterinary pathologist for an evaluation--or even work with or refer you to a veterinary dermatologist.

Odor is usually caused by a bacterial infection, either in the mouth (dental disease, breath changes due to hormonal imbalances such as diabetes or acid/base disturbances because of a metabollic problem), the ears( a yeast infection or bacterial), the skin (primary skin conditions such as infections, glandular problems, any of the above listed problems under hair loss, etc), the anus, the urinary tract, or the reproductive tract. Sometimes, it can be a problem with anal glands (small glands just inside the anus that can become impacted and cause a "fishy" odor to be emitted). Also, it can be stool or urine that is caught/dried on the hair around the anus, the legs, etc. Odor can also be in the form of gas emitted from the colon. As you see, there are many causes for odor coming from pets. A complete physical examination to find the cause is an absolute must. Sometimes, this may even require blood tests or other forms of evaluation to get to the source. Be patient and make an appointment today. The skin problem and odor may very well be related, or they may not be. Good luck!