My dog has a dark spot near her eye and a crusty nose. Is this normal?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Murphy. A common condition known as hyperkeratosis can cause a crusty nose. This is more of a cosmetic probelm and may be what his veterinarian was referring to at your last appointment. If the nose cracks, bleeds or the pigment changes to white or pink though, this is concerning. It can indicate an autoimmune disease. This would need to be diagnosed with a biopsy. In the first scenario, I usually will treat with a topical ointment to dissolve the extra skin or keratin. You need to wear gloves when applying it though as it can dissolve the skin on your finger tips. His veterinarian will be able to prescribe this ointment. I hope this information helps!

I recommend to have Gary examined by the veterinarian. Lesions like this can be related to allergies or benign hyperplasia. Unfortunately, something more serious like an autoimmune condition is also possible. I recommend to play it safe and have him examined. The vet may try treatment or may recommend a biopsy based upon the physical exam. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The little area of discoloration is not necessarily anything to worry about. I see this commonly with time with dark skinned animals. As long as the skin does not seem irritated and the discoloration does not happen on the nose itself, I am inclined to just continue to watch it. Apply a dab of children’s sunscreen lotion before she goes outside to protect that area from sunburn. Best wishes to you and Luna!

She could have an infection or possibly an auto-immune disease. Since this has been going on for 2 weeks, she should be examined by a vet to determine the cause and treat. She may need an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and other medications to help treat.

I recommend to get Cookie checked out by the veterinarian. A sudden change in pigment can indicate something like allergies, skin mites or hormonal changes related to hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. The doctor may get some clues of the physical exam and diagnostics can be run to tell you what is happening with Cookie. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It could be due to acne development or other local allergic or inflammatory reaction. As long as this area is not painful and is not bothering your dog, you can monitor her at home for the weekend. However, if the area is sore or is bothering your dog, you should take her to your local vets tomorrow.

What I'm seeing in the pictures looks normal, so I would recommend just keeping an eye on it for now. Color changes can happen as dogs reach maturity. However if the itching gets worse, I would recommend taking him to his vet for evaluation.