Q
2025-03-30 17:07:40

Is this a dog skin disease?

It's a 7-year-old male Bichon Frise! Since some time ago, brown spots have appeared on my dog's back and seem to be spreading... I looked it up and found that it could be due to dog treats, but I would appreciate it if anyone knows the name and cause of this skin disease!

A
Dr.s Diagnosis
Based on the images, the brown spots on your Bichon Frise could be due to several potential skin conditions. Here are a few possibilities: 1. Hyperpigmentation: This is a general term for darkening of the skin. It can be caused by inflammation, allergies, or hormonal imbalances. For example, if your dog has been scratching a lot due to allergies, the constant irritation can lead to increased pigmentation in those areas. 2. Seborrhea: This condition results in flaky, scaly skin that can also be oily. Sometimes, seborrhea can cause changes in skin pigmentation. 3. Fungal or Bacterial Infection: Infections like ringworm (a fungal infection) or bacterial pyoderma can cause skin lesions with altered pigmentation. While treats may contribute to allergies in some dogs, it's less likely that treats alone are the direct cause of these spots. A true food allergy usually presents with itching, redness, and sometimes gastrointestinal upset, not just pigmentation changes. Recommendations: * Hygiene: Use a hypoallergenic dog shampoo and bathe your dog regularly. This can help remove allergens and irritants. * Diet: Consider a limited-ingredient diet to rule out food sensitivities. Consult your veterinarian for appropriate diet changes. * Home Treatment: You can try applying an anti-itch cream or balm (specifically formulated for dogs) to the affected areas. Look for products containing ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera. If the spots continue to spread or if your dog develops other symptoms like excessive itching, hair loss, or lethargy, consult a veterinarian for a comprehensive evaluation.