Dark Spots

[ilovemydog09]

I noticed a black spot showing up on my dog's belly about a month ago, i thought it was dirt at first but upon further inspection i noticed it was part of her skin, shes never had this spot there before and i thought it might go away but so far it hasn't. i just checked it and noticed it was peeling like a sun burn but only in the area of the dark spot also while i was looking i noticed that her vaginal area has some dark spots also. what could this be? she licks down there a lot but i just assumed thats what dogs do sometimes. could something be going on? should i take her to see a vet? thank you for you time!

[Kimberly Coyner, D.V.M., DACVD]

Dark scaly spots on the skin can be due to a localized skin infection, most commonly bacterial or yeast, less commonly ringworm/fungal infection or demodex mange mites. The increased licking (which is the way dogs scratch themselves when they are itchy), suggests infection is causing itch. The skin increases pigment as a protective response due to the inflammation. Additionally, older dogs can develop flat pigmented skin areas as an aging change, but anything that is raised or bumpy raises the concern of a melanoma or other skin tumor. I recommend that you take her to your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Good Luck,
Kimberly Coyner, DVM
Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Dermatology
www.dermvet.com

[ilovemydog09]

Thank you so much for your reply! everything you said was VERY helpful!