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Why is my dog's face discolored black near her mouth on one side?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 12 years and 10 months old | 10 lbs

My dog has a black discoloration on her face beside her mouth. Any idea on what could cause something like that? It’s only on one side no where else.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 22nd, 2019

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Discoloration around the mouth can be due to saliva staining. If Brownie has bad teeth, then she might drool more on that side causing more saliva staining. I recommend you have her seen by your vet to check if there is a wound present under the fur, or if she has dental disease that requires fixing. Best of luck with Brownie!

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