My dogs' skin is turning black

Question

I have had two dogs whose skin tuns black. When it happened to the first dog I asked the vet about it and he said it was nothing to worry about and it sometimes happens. Now it is happening to a second dog. The skin doesn't stay black. It changes sometimes during the day. It is on the tummy area and groin. I never notice any itching specifically in the affected area. Both dogs have had allergies as well. There is never any other change in the skin, just color. I have not asked by current vet about it because of what my previous vet told me but I though I would check the internet to see what other people are experiencing.

BabaluandOtis2 · Answer

Hi,

Is it a dark brownish/black sometimes waxy substance near the bottom of the hair shaft or on the skin? hard to remove, but if you wipe it enough with a warm wet cloth it starts coming off?

If so it could be yeast/fungal infection on the skin. my boys have this, one worse than the other. in their belly/underarm/thigh area. it doesn't come off with regular bathing. I use Malaseb shampoo and I have to use a brush in those areas. I use a softer bristle brush or toothbrush so as not to irritate the area more as it is tender there.
You can look up the Malaseb online, it also comes in wipes/spray/ and a rinse to use in between baths.
They have other shampoos/conditioners available for fungus too. Just google to find some. I bought the Malaseb in a package deal on Amazon.


Take care, teresa ;)

chihuahuagrandma · Answer

Welcome to the dog forum...
I personally do not have an answer, but check in from time to time, there are very informative people here w/great advice...
Most of luck to you, also here is "ask a vet" Dr. Cheng, you can also repost your concerns w/the vet here...