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Why is my dog's skin turning black and fur thinning? Is it genetic?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 4 months old | 35 lbs

My dog skin is turning a dark black color, its spread from her stomach to her back. Her fur also appears to be thinning, but It doesn't seem to affect her as she is still playful. Her litter she was born with was known for genetic defects like glaucoma and other diseases that killed most of the pups before they were even six months, so I have some concerns about weather this is a genetic defect and what can be done.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on January 13th, 2018

Poor Kieren! Without seeing her it is difficult to say for sure what it is. This could be secondary to allergies, yeast infection, bacterial infection, mange, and more. I would have your vet take a look at her and see if she needs any antibiotics or anti-fungal medicine. Catching certain infections early and treating them will help have a better outcome. This could be a genetic defect but less likely than the causes listed above. I hope this helps!

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