Black Flakes in a Shih Tzu's Coat
by A reader
The first thing to check is flea dirt (flea droppings). It looks like black specks or flakes, is worst on the lower back and tail, and rinses out in the bath. To test it, put some flakes on a damp white paper towel. If they turn reddish brown, it's digested blood from fleas, even if you never see a flea.
If it isn't flea dirt, the itch, the sour smell and the flaking point toward seborrhea, an oily, flaky skin condition that is often driven by allergies, a yeast overgrowth or, in middle-aged dogs, an underactive thyroid. Shih Tzus are prone to both allergies and yeast.
A vet visit with a skin cytology (tape test) can show yeast or bacteria, and blood tests can check his thyroid. Treatment usually combines medicated shampoos with treating the underlying cause. If it is fleas, treat every pet in the home and the bedding.
See seborrhea in dogs and fleas on dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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