Some dogs, like Dalmatians, have naturally dark-spotted skin.
While some dogs have dark spots on their skin naturally, just as we have freckles, it can also signal a health problem. There are many medical reasons dogs get dark spots, from mange to thyroid problems.
History
If the dog's skin was spotted at birth, this is normal pigmentation. Dalmatians and Australian cattle dogs are two of several breeds with naturally spotted skin, but even dogs without spotted coats can have dark spots, according to the American Kennel Club.
Puppies
Skin problems are common in dogs and have myriad underlying causes. A puppy with dark spots, especially around its face, probably has demodectic mange and needs veterinary treatment.
Effects
If dark spots are accompanied by hair loss or itching, or are changing in size, take your dog to the veterinarian, who may need to do a skin scraping to make a diagnosis.
Considerations
You may notice dark spots on your dog's belly or inner thighs because there is usually little fur there. Chances are it has dark spots elsewhere, but they're hard to see through the fur.
Breed-Specific Diseases
Some breeds are susceptible to alopecia X, or "coat funk." Mostly found in Northern breeds,such as Malamutes, Samoyeds and Pomeranians, coat funk causes hair loss and skin darkening.
Related posts
Purebred Boxer dogs are prone to a variety of skin conditions.Boxers, like many large purebred short-haired dog breeds, are susceptible to a variety of skin disorders, including allergies, mange,...
Chows can develop skin problems if not properly cared for.According to K9 Web, chow chow skin problems are becoming more and more common. The causes of skin problems vary from dog to dog. Knowing...
The pharaoh hound's light-brown nose can predispose it to some skin cancers.Many dogs, particularly brown or liver-colored Labrador retrievers, some American pit bulls and all pharaoh hounds, spor...
Pit bulls are prone to skin problems that are not common to other dogs. Owners of pit bulls often complain of recurring problems such as rashes, hives, and persistent itching and scratching. Those...
The flowing white coat of a Maltese groomed for the show ring is striking.The Maltese, which was once known as "Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta," is known to date back more than 2800 years. Pu...
