Dirty inside of hind legs and "crotch" area

[lilybirdsmom]

My boxer is a little overweight and can't reach some parts right now to clean herself. The inside of her hind legs (where they meet her belly) and around her "private parts" is looking black/dirty. I have tried washing her with her usual dog shampoo with a wash cloth in the bathtub with no real difference. Anyone have any idea of what to try to get it to come clean? I don't want to hurt her skin.

 

[darwinsmom]

It sounds like a change in pigmentation not dirt (since it won't wash off). I know with my flashy boy, he developed dark spots in the flashy areas as he aged. Darkening of skin in those areas can also be a symptom of hypothyroidism (as is weight gain), so you might want to take her to the vet to have her tested.

-Karlyn

 

[Gatorblu]

As Karlyn said I would also have her tested for hypothyroidism. I noticed your pup is 4 yrs old which is a common age for onset.

 

[lilybirdsmom]

thanks

thanks for the response - i just read about hyperthyroidism in dogs and she doesn't display any of those symptoms. i will watch her though. thanks

 

[Gatorblu]

You want to look up HYPOthyroidism and not HYPERthyroid. Check this link out. About 1/2 way down lists the classic symptoms, that incude the weight gain and hyperpigmentation of the skin, that you mentioned. Thyroid Diseases: Hypothyroidism in Dogs The good news about hypothyroidism is that it is easily treated.