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Why is my 3-year-old dog getting grey muzzle hairs so early?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 3 years old

He just got 3 yr old and i can see very little small white or grey hairs are starting to come on his muzzle so why it started so early ? Will giving omega 3 syrup going to decrease in grey hairs ? At what age usually dog starts their white grey hairs coz 3 yrs is very young to have isnt it ?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 26th, 2018

Some dogs do start getting grey hair much earlier than others. I had a lab mix who started getting grey hair around 2 and 1/2 to 3 years old, but she lived to be 15 and was very healthy her entire life. There is no set age that's "normal" to start seeing greys, and no need for concern. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sometimes white hairs start setting in very early in life and that is not always a sign of getting older like it is in humans. Sometimes it is just a change in pigmentation. Giving omega 3 fatty acids is not going to reverse that though that is really nothing concerning. Best of luck!

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