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My dog's pink belly is browning. Is this normal or a vet concern?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 years and 2 months old | 7 lbs
My 3 year, 7 lb, blonde mixed terrier that I adopted the end of December with a pinkish white belly has recently had a browning of this area. She acts fine, no scratching. She has a light/pinkish nose. Does this require vet attention?
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Elva Ma DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 28th, 2018
Hello, and thank you for your question! Darkening of the skin should not be a problem, in the absence of any scratching or irritation.
However, terriers such as westies can be prone to skin allergies, so I would keep a close eye on Britta for any licking, biting or scratching of her skin. If so, this irritation could cause darkening ("hyperpigmentation"), and if so, I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam of her skin.
On the topic of westies with sensitive skin, I would stick with bathing her no more than once a month, using a gentle aloe and oatmeal based shampoo. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. This will help to prevent overdrying and itching of the skin.
I hope this helps, and that Britta is doing well!
However, terriers such as westies can be prone to skin allergies, so I would keep a close eye on Britta for any licking, biting or scratching of her skin. If so, this irritation could cause darkening ("hyperpigmentation"), and if so, I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam of her skin.
On the topic of westies with sensitive skin, I would stick with bathing her no more than once a month, using a gentle aloe and oatmeal based shampoo. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. This will help to prevent overdrying and itching of the skin.
I hope this helps, and that Britta is doing well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful