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What is this painful, thin, discolored thing sticking out of my dog?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 20 lbs

I felt this thing sticking out of my dog today. it’s whitish/yellowish in color and has some brown/black spots on it. it’s very thin, (1/8 of an inch or so) and it was sticking out a good half inch. I tried to pull it out but it ripped in half and my dog seemed to be in a lot of pain and starting trying to bite my hand so I stopped. Touching the protrusion seems to bring my dog discomfort and I’m not sure exactly what to do.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 4th, 2019

This looks like hyperkeratinization or a sebaceous cyst. You really should not squeeze or pull on these things unless you know what they are. I'm sure it was painful. I suggest you have your vet check this out. I may be nothing you need to worry about but it is better to be safe than sorry. Best wishes.

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