Bald spot?

[Gwendolyn Moore]

My 3 year old male (neutered) has recently developed bald spots on both flanks. One is about 1 1/2 inches and the other is more like 2 1/2 inches in diameter. They are irregularly shaped. He is not otherwise shedding more than usual. His skin is healthy, soft and charcoal colored. No signs of irritation or inflammation at all. I never see him scratching there. I'll be taking him to vet tomorrow, but In the meantime, has anyone seen this?

[Lee May]

Sounds like they might bald spots to the way he is laying down, Are they high on the hip side or by the knee? what does he normally lay on hard surface carpet, grass, etc.?

[Gwendolyn Moore]

Hi everyone. Thought someone might be interested in result of vetting balding issue. Diagnosis is " Boxer Symmetrical Flank Alopecia". Essentially means he has benign balding on his flanks. No danger, no contagion, just black patches of healthy skin. Not related to raw diet / malnutrition. It apparently is a Mastiff- type breed thing. Might disappear by itself, maybe not. Either way, no worries.

[Lee May]

Good to hear, try some organic coconut oil on balding spots it's suppose to help. Good luck.

[Gwendolyn Moore]

Lee: Thanks for your input. I've also learned that there is a light component to this. When the days shorten in the fall until Spring. November-May. Others have tried melatonin with some success. I plan to just ride it out as patches are relatively small.
Lee May said:

Good to hear, try some organic coconut oil on balding spots it's suppose to help. Good luck.