Small Black Dog Skin Bumps with Hair Loss

by Pam
(Shelbyville, TN 37160)

My English Bulldog has small black bumps on his back with hair loss in these areas.

I would like to know what it could be. I have put bug balm on this area to help him with the itching and gave him a oatmeal bath.

Editor Suggestions Dog Black Bumps on Skin and Dog Hair Loss

Dear Pam,

Thank you for your question regarding black dog skin bumps and dog hair loss.

The skin is the largest body part. It is exposed directly to many pathogenic (disease causing) factors. It is also affected by internal physiological disturbances as well. Therefore, the development of dog skin bumps, alopecia (hair loss) and itching are relatively non specific symptoms, i.e. many conditions can be characterized by these symptoms.

The condition you described is characterized by itching and the progression of symptoms on the back. Also, in the picture, it seems that the dog skin bumps are hard and crusty, representing a possible parasitic infestation.

Along with aforementioned symptoms, you should watch out for other signs such as pus, changes and an increase in symptoms on the back that are towards the hind quarter and symptoms of generalized illness getting worse over time. All of these symptoms represent some type of infectious/parasitic condition.

Here, we can suggest some preventive and supportive measures, which will surely help to reduce the symptoms you are seeing and which will help to improve overall dog skin health.

First we suggest that you use a quality medicated shampoo, preferably one which contains a combination of natural extracts such as Nutrivet Medicated Shampoo. This will help to heal the existing lesions and reduce symptoms such as itching and any discomfort. It preferable to continue the use of medicated shampoo until the condition is resolved. Afterward, switch to a a herbal shampoo for regular use.

In addition to using a medicated shampoo, you can also add a natural remedy to eradicate any possible parasites (mites etc.) such as Dermsil for Pet Mange in combination with the medicated shampoo. Also, for overall skin health and regrowth of hair, we prefer the use of a natural product such as Skin and Coat Tonic.

Since this condition appears to be related to some type of infectious or contagious cause, for now, you should also clean the kennel, bedding, and environment around the dog to eradicate any pathogenic factors (whether parasites or other microbes). To be safe, wash all clothing and bedding with a quality detergent in hot water, and spray a quality disinfectant made to kill mites in the areas the dog lives with a product such as Benzarid.

By taking these steps, microbial or infectious factors will surely be eradicated and your pet should start to recover in a week or so. But, in case the condition gets worse with time or if you feel there there are some unusual symptoms, its best to consult a veterinarian for a detailed examination and specific treatment, because it can be some serious problem (some underlying systemic disease or tumorous development) that requires immediate attention.

Best of luck to you and your dog. Please keep us up to date on the black dog skin bumps and any improvement in the dog skin condition.