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Why does my dog have blackhead-like spots on her elbow callus?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 3 months old | 80 lbs

My dog has always had a rough spot on her elbow. While bathing her today I noticed that she has blackhead looking things on there now. What could this be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 23rd, 2017

Elbow calluses are quite common due to the pressure on elbows when dogs lay on hard surfaces. It is possible that Maya has developed lesions called comedones on these calluses. These lesions can indicate a bacterial infection, mites, underlying endocrine disease (such as Cushing's disease, but unlikely given Maya's young age), among others. Continue monitoring these lesions for changes, discharge, irritation, or licking. While this does not sound like an urgent condition, Maya's vet should examine these lesions within the next week or so to determine if further diagnostics or treatment is indicated.

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