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My dog has small black dots and flakes on skin, but no itching. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed

My dog has really small black dots on her skin, there are also little flakes coming off but she isn’t experiencing any itching.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 18th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The picture looks like comedones. How old is Sophie? Comedones are dilated hair follicles which can be from a bacterial infection, demodex (non-contagious mite) and dermatophyte (ringworm). These causes are diagnosed with skin scrapings and cytology, and possibly fungal cultures. In older dogs, hormonal diseases such as Cushing’s disease and hypothyroidism can also cause comedones and may be diagnosed by blood testing. In mildly affected animals, topical treatment with benzoyl peroxide gel perimay be helpful. Antiseborrheic shampoos (sulfur/salicylic acids or, in severe cases, benzoyl peroxide) may be helpful for more extensive lesions. Treatment of any secondary bacterial infection with antibiotics is also important. Ruling out hormonal disease should also be done. I hope this help!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 30th, 2019

    Hello. Your pictures are not super clear, but these look like comedones - black heads. Pretty common in may dogs with skin issues. You can try bathing or washing Sophie in a benzoyl peroxide product, either a shampoo or gel, for its follicular flushing properties. If you cannot find a shampoo at your local pet retailer, check to see if your veterinarian carries one. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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