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What causes my dog's painful black cysts, shaking, and growling?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Male | neutered | 11 years and 10 months old | 10 lbs

My dog has been getting many small cysts. Annually the vet removes. Now blackness under them has formed and are painful. What is this? He shakes sometimes and is more growly.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 13th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! These are likely sebaceous adenoma a which are benign and typically not painful. Although they have that appearance consistent with that benign growth, you never know until you sample it. They should not be painful so if that is the case, it would be indicated to have him evaluated to look for any other possible pain sources.

This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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