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Coton puppy has painful dark spots on belly. What should I do?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Coton de Tulear | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 6.5 lbs

Hi. We have a Coton De Tulear that is about 17 weeks old. We noticed some staining on his underside about three weeks ago. It has gotten worse. If we pick him up near there, he crys a bit. What could this be? What should we do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on March 27, 2018

It is normal for Coton De Tulears to develop darker areas of pigmentation or freckles on their abdomen. (You will often notice them in other areas when they are wet as well.) These areas should not be painful, look red or purple or be raised or crusted. The areas should not be painful to the touch and Rocky should not cry when you touch him there. I would recommend having your veterinarian examine his abdomen to make sure there isn't anything painful that is causing him to cry when he is picked up just to be safe.
Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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