What physical condition did the stray dog from Greece exhibit, noted for patches of alopecia?

The presence of patches of alopecia, or hair loss, in the stray dog from Greece is most indicative of a condition like leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis, caused by the Leishmania parasite, often presents with various skin lesions, including hair loss, and is commonly associated with other systemic signs such as weight loss and lethargy. In regions where leishmaniasis is endemic, the disease often affects dogs, leading to the characteristic clinical signs.

While other conditions can also cause alopecia, leishmaniasis is particularly noted for its geographic association and the specific clinical presentation seen in affected dogs. Recognizing the context of how the disease is transmitted (via sandflies) and its prevalence in stray dog populations provides additional support to why leishmaniasis is the most plausible explanation for the observed symptoms in this scenario.