Most dog owners love their pets too much, and noticing anything about their pets can be alarming.
This includes black spots on a dog’s nipple.
Most of the time, such spots have a natural explanation, and you do not have to be worried.
The black spots can simply be blackheads that your dog has developed anywhere with a hair follicle or pore.
And since nipples come with both these qualities, then black spots are likely to occur there.
Dogs that are not bathed regularly or hairless breeds are likely to develop blackheads.
Also, a dog with inverted nipples is more likely to get these black spots than one with protruding nipples.
What Are Blackheads (Dog Acne)?
Medically, blackheads are known as comedones, and they are simply clogged hair follicles.
The sebaceous gland, which is part of the skin, produces oil sebum to keep the skin soft.
However, when this oil is produced in large amounts and mixes with environmental dirt, it ends up with a black or brown appearance.
This is what causes these spots.
Also, note that not everything resembling blackheads is a blackhead.
It can be another health issue.
Do All Dogs Have Blackheads?
There is no research that points out that only certain types of dogs can get blackheads on their nipples.
Any dog, male or female, can develop blackheads.
Basically, it is a skin inflammation that humans call acne.
If you observe your dog’s nipples and are sure that this is acne, you can get rid of them to prevent the situation from deteriorating.
Keep in mind that sometimes it can also disappear on its own.
What Causes Black Spots on a Dog’s Nipples
The major cause of black spots is clogged hair follicles or skin pores.
However, other things can also lead to the development of such spots.
Some of them are as discussed below.
Lack of Proper Grooming
Normally, when most people are washing their dogs, an area that does not receive much attention is the nipples.
This could be due to dog sensitivity.
If the area is not kept clean, then the skin pores around that part will continue to be dirty.
Eventually, the dog will develop such spots.
Unhealthy Diet
Black spots can also be caused by the food you are feeding your dog.
Meals with inadequate water, excessive sugar, and a lot of salt, advance the production of oil in a dog’s body.
How To Get Rid of Blackheads On Dogs?
No need to be worried about black spots as you can easily get rid of them.
Here are a few ideas to help your dog.
Cleansing Products
You can find safe products from a pet store and use them to clear the spots.
One common mistake that most dog owners make is using human acne products to remove the issue.
This is highly discouraged by experts.
Your dog’s skin is different from yours, and using human products can cause harmful effects on a dog.
Topical Steroid
If you notice that the black spots are enlarged or swollen, it could be due to inflammation, which means the area is contaminated.
On such occasions, a vet might recommend a topical steroid to help.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are only necessary if the area has been infected.
You can consult with a vet about the proper anti-infection product to apply to your dog.
Depending on how severe the condition is, you may have to apply the anti-infection or keep the dog on medication for several days.
Benzoyl Peroxide
When the condition is severe, you can use benzoyl peroxide to get rid of the spots.
Use only a safe amount as that will help soften the dark spots, allowing you to clean them off.
However, any benzoyl peroxide products must be used in moderation as excess use can lead to dry skin.
Anti-Seborrheic Shampoo
Any dog shampoo with salicylic acid or sulfur can help treat black spots around a dog’s nipple.
Keep The Area Clean
You can also help get rid of clogged pores by using the right dog cleanser or shampoo.
However, note that a dog’s nipples are sensitive areas, and you should be gentle when washing them.
Do Not Pinch
Do not attempt to squeeze or pinch the clogged pore to avoid worsening the issue.
For starters, you will probably hurt your dog.
Another reason is that your dog can get an infection.
The condition can become a bacterial sickness if tiny organisms are amassed around the area.
When to Worry About Black Spots On Dogs Nipples
There are certain circumstances where the issue could be more than simply clogged pores.
In such cases, you need to be alarmed.
Here are a few examples of when you should be concerned.
The black spots are in other areas as well
When you notice a black spot around the nipple, inspect other areas as well, particularly on the dog’s torso.
If there are a lot of spots and you are sure they were not there before, it could be some type of infestation.
For instance, some people may confuse these blackheads for ticks or fleas.
If it is a pest infestation, have the dog checked out.
Despite proper treatment methods, the black spots are still there
As dogs age, they can get black spots, and so, if the spots do not go away, they might be natural freckles.
If they are not causing your dog any distress and there are no other issues, leave it as is but monitor your dog.
You can also consult with a vet whenever you are not sure.
You notice swelling, discoloration, or an odor
If you notice a weird smell on your dog and then see the black spots, it could be a skin condition.
Also, swelling and discoloration can indicate a health issue, and so take your dog to a vet.
How To Prevent Black Spots On Dog Nipples
Some of the ways you can prevent these spots include
- Keep your dog well-groomed.
- Keep your dog well hydrated. If you notice that your dog is not getting enough water, find other techniques to ensure your dog has adequate water.
- Your dog’s diet should only contain enough fats as required by the body.
Most of the time, black spots are nothing to be concerned about.
The right cleansing agents will easily help remove them.
But if the problem is not getting better, see a vet immediately.