My dog has brown bumps on his belly and the tip of his penis is turning black. He bites his penis but has no problem urinating. He had fleas when I got him 2 weeks ago but I have treated them with a flea shampoo. He doesn't like getting in my grass to potty.

Updated On September 3rd, 2017

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 16 days old | 4 lbs

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Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

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I am so sorry that Rowdy is having this problem. The discoloration on the tip of Rowdy's penis appears to be a normal color change. Puppies generally have very pink bellies which become darker as they mature. So, I would not worry about that. From the pictures, it looks like the areas on Rowdy's belly are crusts that could be a sign of a bacterial skin infection which is also called pyoderma. Here is an article on pyoderma. It is very common in puppies and in response to fleas. https://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1571 There are a number of treatment options for pyoderma. Sometimes we can resolve them with topical treatment (antibacterial shampoos, sprays or wipes), but sometimes they require oral or injectable antibiotics. However, we still needs to look for the cause of the pyoderma. Since we know that Rowdy had fleas that may be the reason for the pyoderma. You may also be dealing with a flea allergy even if you have treated for fleas. Once a flea bites a flea allergy dog, that dog can stay itchy for a week. Here is additional information on fleas causing itching in dogs. https://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2455 I would recommend having your veterinarian evaluate Rowdy to discuss your treatment options for Rowdy's belly. I would also get Rowdy on a regular flea prevention regimen since flea shampoo only works for a couple of days and only works on adult fleas. Please let me know if that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Puppies often get this problem known as impetigo, which is essentially a minor skin infection. It is not likely to cause any major problems and will go away with time (about 2 weeks). You can help speed the process along by cleaning the belly daily with a medicated shampoo or pet wipes (can find these in the pet store). Make sure to dry the area well after cleaning. I hope that helps and Rowdy clears this soon.

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