Ask Dr Claire

My Maltese x Shitzu is 1 and has suddenly developed large grey patches on her skin. Should I be worried?

Some dogs have more pigmentation in their skin than others, and the pigment can change in young dogs. Such as your 1 year old Maltese x Shih tzu.

If the skin texture and thickness is the same to that of the unpigmented skin, it could just be a normal pigmentation. Any skin change is important to monitor. If the pigmented skin is raised, thickened or is changing rapidly it needs to be investigated.

Sometimes, to know for sure what the diagnosis is, a biopsy needs to be taken by your local vet.

If you’d like to chat in person, you can book a live video call or start a chat to discuss in more detail, as soon as possible.

We’re here to help!

Chat soon,
Dr Claire