My dog's skin is purple after shaving matted fur. Is it serious?

Dogs can definitely start to have hair that turns white or grey with age, usually around the face and head. I'm not sure about your description of purple/white skin under the hair on his head - this has me a little worried he could have a bruise. If you think his head could look consistent with a bruise, or if the purple areas are raised I would recommend seeing a veterinarian. Bruising can be a sign of a bleeding disorder and should be addressed right away.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is possibly normal. However, it is too difficult to know that just based on this picture as it is a bit blurry. I would recommend you consider sending another picture so that this can be looked at more closely. We are looking forward to hearing from you again. Best of luck!

If your pup has been scratching or chewing at the spot, it could be getting red/purplish from irritation. Bruising may also cause a purplish color to appear. Since the site is changing in appearance, it is best to have it rechecked with your vet to make sure there aren't new problems, such as an infection or growth, causing the change. You may also want to use an Elizabethan (cone) collar or T-shirt on your pup to stop her from licking and chewing at it until you can get to the vet. If your pup seems very distressed, or the color is rapidly growing and changing, seeking vet care ASAP is best.

Hello. We will often see some subtle indications of a bacterial infection under the hair, especially after long or thick hair has been shaved off. You can bathe Bruce in any OTC antibacterial shampoo ( either with benzyl peroxide or chlorhexidine ) twice a week for 2-3 weeks & this should take care of the problem. Oral antibiotics are very rarely needed. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It is normal for the hair coat to thin out and then appear bald in places after the puppies are weaned. The change in color and odor can be a sign of an infection though. You can try a medicated bath until you can get her to the vet to check for an infection

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It is not considered normal during the shedding period for any dog to develop skin problems. It is difficult to say definitively from your photos, but I am highly suspicious of some bacterial or allergic skin disease going on. He may need treatment with an antibacterial shampoo, or he may need stronger medications such as oral antibiotics or prescription allergy medications. Please see your veterinarian at your earliest convenience to rule out some of these issues & help Prince grow a beautiful coat.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely not due to the product used. Sometimes the skin may look like that as a saliva stain due to self-licking which may be due to allergies for examples. If he is not presenting any symptoms, I would not be too concerned about this. Best of luck!