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My dog has a hard black spot on its leg. Is it a skin condition?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 9 years and 5 months old | 55 lbs

Distal dorsal side of lefr hind legs had 1.5 inch long and .5inch wide hairless redened spot that now seems to have shrunken in size but is black and hardened. Dog does not bother with the area. Also noticed hard round area over ankle bone? on same leg however on medial inside area. Have read into skin conditions and dog has been scratching more than usual however does not interfere with issues noted on the outside of her foot and inside leg near ankle joint area? Please advise.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily Luisana DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

I would be most concerned for a lick granuloma although it is difficult to tell from pictures. These can be related to arthritic pain, boredom, compulsive disorders and allergies, among other causes. The treatment depends somewhat on what the vet suspects the cause is- but may include diet changes, pain medicine, antibiotics if it appears infected and/or behavioral modification. If your vet does not think it looks like a granuloma in person they may recommend a biopsy! I hope this helps and Mercedes is back to normal soon!

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