I agree with the thyroid test. After that I would use a healthier food and a skin and coat supplement.
Some breeds have some problems with corn based foods in hot weather, it burns hot in ther system. It can cause more problems with hot spots.
Also foods with corn, wheat, soy can cause some allergy problems.
"IN" Diet Supplemement will help a lot for Hot Spots and the thinning coat. See there site at
www.alc-INovators.com
Check this web site for a very healthy food you might try if it is in your area.
INNOVA by Natura Pet Products -
www.naturapet.com - Use the dealer locator to find a store in your area. It is the best food I know of. You will feed 1/3 less too.
I use it along with the "IN" for the best coats I have ever seen. So do all my dog friends that show dog.
Hope that helps,
Mike
[This message has been edited by ~Von (edited August 05, 1999).]