mini poodle has hair problem

Question
Hi, I look after a mini poodle - have groomed him since he was 16ks old, and he is now about 16mths. Over the last few months, his owner noticed he has had a skin problem which numerous vet trips showed no evidence of fleas, mites etc. Anyhow, his hair fell out on the worst affected areas, and has grown back straight and reddish brown. He was apricot to start with.

Thanks, Gillian

Answer
Hello Gillian,
As to the skin problem, it could be a number of things from allergies to reaction to medication or just hot spots.  Your customer should see if there is anything new around her house that her dog could be exposed to that might cause this, has she changed his food, or have neighbors sprayed their yard and her dog got around it.  

The reason the hair has grown in a different color and texture is because somehow the hair follicles have been affected and now the hair is growing back in the original color and texture; in other words, the way it grew in when the dog was a puppy.  The hair will have to change color as the dog ages just like it has from birth until now.  

Check with the owner and let them know what I have suggested and if you or them have any other questions for me, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim