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Why does my dog have black specks on his elbows or front legs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Goldendoodle | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 5 months old | 51 lbs

What are these black specks on my dogs skin? It’s on both arms? I received an answer i didn’t understand before.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 17th, 2019

Hello, sorry to hear about Butters. I think those are his elbows?? If so, this can be the early development of a callus, commonly seen in dogs as they age because of the pressure point at the skin of the elbow that is created especially when dogs are laying down. Alternatively, this could be comedones that can be seen with skin allergies or local skin irritation. If Butters does not seem to be bothered by them, is not licking them, scratching, or lozing hair then you can monitor the area for any of those signs. If he is showing signs, then he could be having allergies and you should consider having your veterinarian examine the areas to see if he needs to be further evaluated for allergies and determine if he needs to be treated for these. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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