My Boxer's stomach skin is darker. Is this a normal pigment variation?

Thank you for asking the question about Harley. If she is not itchy then it may just be pigment change to her skin. Lots of breeds can have changes to their skin and Hair coat as they mature. If you happen to have before and after pictures to post in another question that may be helpful. Is she is itchy, or the skin has wounds or crusting then she should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

Hyperpigmentation of the skin is common with age where there is no overlying hair. It can also be caused by skin irritation/infections but if there are no lesions or symptoms it is likely normal. No treatment needed in that case. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

This looks like hyperpigmentation. It typically occurs in lightly pigmented, sparsely haired regions as dogs get older. It can also be caused my inflammation so just make sure she is not spending too much time sunbathing and that there are no other signs like licking/scratching/lesions. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

The pictures look like it could just be normal pigment change. As puppies mature their pigmentation can as well. If the skin is raised, thicker, crusty, or itchy then I would be concerned. If you have any concerns then I would encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian. If there is a concern then a biopsy could easily be done at the time of his neuter. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Her skin looks like a normal skin color for an adult lab. It isn't abnormal for the puppy pink skin to darkened in these area to a uniform greyish brown color. the skin should still be soft and not "elephant" like which indicates excessive licking. Have a great day!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Gola. The dark spots on his belly appear to be normal pigment changes. This is common in white haired dogs. There will be multiple darker spots on the belly. The spots can grow, change and fade as the dog ages. They are flat with the skin, there is no redness and they do not bother the dog. If this seems to be the case for him, testing should not be needed. This is not a cause for concern. If the bumps are itchy or develop scabs, then this is different and could indicate an infection. I hope this information helps!

If the skin is not irritated/itchy and feels the same as the skin surrounding that is not dark in color, I would just monitor the area. We can have changes in pigmentation of the skin in dogs as they age, as well as changes as the result of inflammation. If the area begins to spread, or the skin feels dry/rough in this area, or she is licking, a visit to the vet is recommended.