My shorkie's skin is dark with dark hair after a shot. Is it normal?

This may be a normal aging change for her. As puppies lose their puppy coats the adult fur can change color and the skin pigment can darken also. If the skin looks normal with no sores I wouldn't worry about it. If she is itchy that may cause changes in the skin color. A veterinary visit is indicated if you are seeing abnormal areas on the skin.

Increased pigmentation in the skin can be a result of hormonal changes such as those seen with hypothyroidism or chronic inflammation such as with skin allergies or yeast infections. The bump in the picture could be due to inflammation as well or could be a cyst, wart or skin tumor. If the bump is getting larger, does not go away or seems to be bothering Rhonda, I would recommend that you have her seen by your veterinarian. The changes in skin color may resolve with time but if they do not or seem to be getting worst, I would recommend seeing a veterinarian. They may recommend checking thyroid levels to rule out hypothyroidism.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Many dogs normally have darker pigmented areas of skin under their fur. In some dogs, this does pigment can increase with age. It is impossible to tell only from a photograph however if this is normal pigment. She would need to be assessed by a veterinarian with a physical exam to determine if there is cause for concern.

Probably nothing to be worried about. I would continue to monitor it for new breakouts, greasy or flaky skin. Thank you for the pictures! Hyperpmentation can be normal, especially after recent skin inflammation. Thank you for contacting me today!

Some issues such as metabolic illnesses can cause hair loss and skin darkening. You may also see changes in weight, appetite, water intake, etc. Other potential causes include parasites, allergies, skin infections, etc. Since there is both a change to skin and coat, having Trixie examined by your vet and samples taken or bloodwork done may help narrow down the cause so it can be treated.

Skin darkening can occur due to natural aging, low level irritation from infection or allergies, a healed wound or changes in hormone levels from hypothyroidism. Your veterinarian may be able to determine the exact cause after a thorough physical exam. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

I would not worry too much about this slight change in skin color. Oftentimes if a dog is itchy and scratches a lot it can cause hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) and sometimes skin infection. (Looking at the picture it does not appear that Sandy has a skin infection at this time). Keep an eye on the skin and if she does seem irritated by it then I wouldn't worry.