Why does my older dog have recurrent black skin scabs that won't heal?

Question

My dog -9yr old chow mix has been having a skin problem for months. Thick black scabs popping up all across her right side that heal to black dry skin. She's been on multiple medications for this (antifungal, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory) but as one area heals another pops up. She doesnt lick or scratch at them. The vet didnt do a skin scrape or anything just diagnosed by looking at it. Shes been through 2 vet appointments and 2 rounds of meds. Any ideas you can share would be very appreciated! Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 9 years and 6 months old | 50 lbs

Amy S. Eutsey, DVM · Accepted Answer

These areas do look like a type of skin infection. If Lily is having recurrent ones or they never seem to completely resolve, I think it is time to look for an underlying problem that could be contributing. In an older dog, the best place to start is actually with a blood panel. This panel should include a thyroid hormone level check . Hypothyroidism or under active thyroid is a very common cause for chronic skin problems. This blood panel can also screen for Cushing's Disease which is an adrenal gland disorder that can also cause chronic skin problems. If the bloodwork is all normal, ask your veterinarian about doing a skin biopsy. This cDNA be done with light sedation and will give the best information.

Why does my older dog have recurrent black skin scabs that won't heal?

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