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Why is my senior dog slow, pot-bellied, and getting skin spots?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bullmastiff | Male | neutered | 9 years and 3 months old | 160 lbs

10 year old male bullmastiff. No change in mood, appetite or toilet. Just slower. Over the past couple ofmonths he has gained a pot bellied appearance and now he has spots, not sores, on his legs and other parts of his body. He isn't uncomfortable at so I don't think it's sinister. Could this be just old age?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 20th, 2017

I would be concerned that Harvey may have Cushing's disease. One of the typical symptoms of Cushing's is a pot bellied appearance and skin problems. I would have him seen by a vet tomorrow. The vet can do a series of blood tests to diagnose if he does have Cushing's disease. Should Harvey have Cushing's, it can be medically managed with drugs.

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