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Why does my dog have brown or dark spots on his belly? Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 5 years old | 34 lbs

My dog has brown to dark spots on his belly, what can it be?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 31st, 2019

This looks like normal pigmentation to me however it could also be post inflammatory hyperpigmentation from an infection. I wouldn’t be overly worried but I suggest you use these medicated wipes on the pigmented areas daily for 7-10 days. If no change then it’s either normal or you should have your vet check it. ( https://www.allivet.com/p-5393-douxo-chlorhexidine-3-ps-pads-for-dogs-and-cats-30.aspx )

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10Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 7th, 2017

    Hello, this is Dr. Jess. I am sorry to hear about your concern for Sophie. There are several different possibilities for dark spots on the belly. If the spots are red or purplish at all, then we would be concerned this could be bruising and a sign of a bleeding disorder and an exam would be needed right away. Some dogs can have normal pigmented areas of their skin and it is normal for them to have dark blotches on the belly area. Another possible cause would be a post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where the skin takes on a darker color after being inflammed, often due to a bacterial or yeast infection. The safest thing to do would be to have your vet check these areas out, to be sure they aren't due to a medical condition.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on April 29th, 2018

    The dark spots may be normal pigmentation, black heads or minor infection. The larger dark spot may also be normal or not. You can either monitor them for rapid change or spread and then have Abby examined by your veterinarian or you can schedule an appointment sooner for an exam. Your vet may biopsy the large spot to collect samples for pathology to rule out or diagnose melanoma.

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    Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 5th, 2017

    I am assuming you are questioning about the darker areas on chewy's belly. This is likely hyperpigmentation (darker coloring due to skin pigment) of the skin that can be caused by an array of things like allergen chronic exposure, hypothyroidism, etc. as far as the skin there is usually no issue or pain caused by this alone. Hope this helps!0

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