My dog is 17 and has lost fur on his back ears and has dry

Hello, you are through to Dr Linda, a UK based vet with 10 years of clinical experience working out of West London. It will be my pleasure to help you today.

I'm sorry to hear to this and understand your concern for Riley.

Would a photo of his ears and skin be possible please?

Is the skin thickened or red?

Thank you, ***** ***** very clear.

I can see there is significant fur loss, the fur and skin are dry and the skin also looks a little thickened and dark.

Does he have any other signs such as panting, bloating, weight gain, lethargy or excess thirst?

Thank you, sure.

Has he ever had any skin issues before?

Sure thing.

Before typing my reply, is there anything else I should know?

Ok, sure.

Please bear with me as I type my reply.

Extensive fur loss like this that is mainly symmetrical and not associated with itching is usually hormonal.

This can mean an endocrine disorder such as hypothyroidism or Cushing's disease.

We'd also consider a fungal infection or autoimmune disease.

A vet check is important so we can assess Riley and check his skin. We'd ideally take a blood test to check hormone levels as oral medicine may be needed.

With regards ***** ***** the vet can analyse this if concerned. It may be e.g. a fatty lump or cyst but we want to ensure there is not more going on.

Ok, sure thing.

Do you have any further questions today?