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My dog's paw pads are turning lighter and pinker. Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 3 months old | 32 lbs

My dogs pawns are getting lighter (pink) and have moles all over.. His paws used to be brown and I have now noticed they are lighter. They are a little dirty right now because it's been raining outside but when they are cleaner you can notice more the lighter color. I just want to know if this could be a sign of anything or if it is normal.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 16th, 2020

Depigmentation can be normal, but if the skin is also thick or crusty or there are other skin lesions it might also be a sign of an autoimmune skin disease. If Iker has scabs or crusts on his paw pads that aren't obvious in the picture, if he seems itchy or if he has other skin problems I'd recommend having your vet take a look.

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