A Black Spot on an Older Dog's Vulva
by Mike
I hoping someone can help me or my dog that is. She is a 13 year old black lab. And I have recently found this black spot on my dogs vulva. I'm scared that it might be cancer. She has a history of infections on her vulva but none that have presented this way. Can anyone give me an idea of what this is.
Dark patches on and around the vulva are fairly common. Skin that has been inflamed, infected or licked a lot over time often turns darker, and a history of infections in that area makes this more likely. Flat darkening that isn't changing, itching or sore is usually harmless.
Because she's 13 and the spot is new, it's still worth having your vet look at it. A spot that's raised, has a clear edge, or grows, bleeds or ulcerates should be sampled, because some skin tumors can look like this. A quick needle sample or small biopsy can usually tell what it is.
In the meantime, take a dated photo so you can track any change, and see your vet sooner if she licks it a lot, it becomes swollen, or you see discharge.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
