Question:
He is a white min.eskimo spitz. In the summer I would shave him because he couldn't handle the heat. I had to run air conditioning just for him. When he was outside he would lay in the shade. :( He is eleven years old. We notice this year, his skin has turn dark in some places. He has lost a lot of hair in these dark area. When we give him a bath some of this dark area does come off. What can we do to help.

Answer:
I would have him checked by the vet to make sure that it is nothing serious. Shaving a dog does not cool them because they do not sweat through their body like we do. The hair actually act like an insulator, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It could be resulting from the sun gaining access to his skin.
It is also quite common for older dogs to develop skin conditions.

Answer:
I agree with Stacey. You shouldn't shave your dog. This might be part of the problem. To keep him cool in the summer, you're much better off providing him with lots of cold water and keeping him in an air conditioned room as much as possible. Too much bathing could also be an issue. Unless he's getting downright muddy, you probably shouldn't bathe him at all. This strips the coat and skin of their natural oils. I also agree with taking him to a vet. It could be any of the issues above, or it could be a hereditary skin condition, or an allergic reaction to something, or any number of issues. His problems with heat could also be a thyroid problem, so mention that to the vet as well. Hope this helps!

Answer:
I agree...don`t shave him. Skin darkening, heat intolerance and hair loss or thinning are signs of hypothroidism. I think you should get him tested for that.

Answer:
Thank's for your help! I will take him to the vets.

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