Brown Flaky Skin on Dog’s Tail

Hi Jeanette,
From the description and photo, I am suspicious of condition called 'stud' tail in dogs. It is most common in intact male dogs, since this area about 1/3 down on the top or dorsal aspect is the location of a collection of large oil glands. In some cases with a higher level of testosterone, these glands can become inflamed and enlarged, and develop superficial dermatitis, either from bacteria or yeast.

You may need to neuter the dogs to lower the level of testosterone. If the dogs are already neutered, then follow this advice:

Keep the area clean, no need to apply topicals as the dog will just lick it off. Using astringents such as witch hazel, or rubbing alcohol, if it does not sting, will help to remove the excess oil production and shrink the pores.

Feed a healthy wholesome diet, see our page on 10 Best Dog Food options, and consider feeding a raw diet.

Use a minimal dog vaccination schedule. If this condition started after a vaccine was given, then I would consider obtaining an exemption form to 'excuse' them from any more vaccinations. Also, consider an antibody titer for Rabies, Distemper, and Parvo, to check on what their protective levels are, at this time.

In many cases, decreasing the frequency of vaccination is the key to resolving this issue. In some cases, a visit to a holistic veterinarian is in order to reverse or correct the effect of 'vaccinosis'. A holistic veterinarian will discuss supplements and perhaps a homeopathic remedy to help. See our page on alternative medicine for dogs to find out what to expect from a holistic veterinarian.

To find a holistic veterinarian in your area click here:
find a holistic veterinarian in your area

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the 'click here to add your own comments' link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Thank you very much for this assessment. Both of our dogs are "in tact males", so I'm trying the topical treatment you suggest as my first choice in treatment. I'll keep you posted.

Thanks!

Hi Jeannette,
If you do not have any response in three to six weeks (with topical cleaning and diet improvement), you should seek out the help of a holistic veterinarian.

To find a holistic veterinarian in your area click here:
find a holistic veterinarian in your area

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

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DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Related Pages:
- Dog Skin Conditions,
- Dog Itchy Skin,
- Dog Skin Rash,
- Dog Skin Allergies,
- Ask a Vet Online Library - Dog Skin Rashes, Marks, Spots, Lesions & Patches (including itchy skin and mange) Section,
- Ask a Vet Online Library - Dog Hair Loss Section

My male labs tend to have stud tail as well. 2 of them were "cured" as they needed to be neutered for other unrelated reasons.

I do not over-vaccinate or use flea/tick meds. The only vaccination is the 3 yr. rabies as required by law.

While not on a raw diet or premium holistic food, I feed a good quality diet.

I have yet to find anyone that can recommend anything other than neutering the animal.

I believe my dog has this as well. He is almost 4 months old. Is there any other side effects that he could experience if he goes for a period of time before being neutered? My vet recommended I not have him fixed until he is a year old, as he is a German Shepherd and they want him to develop as much as possible before the procedure due to GSD's hip issues.
Any suggestions?

August 16, 2014

Dear Anonymous,

Thanks for your question. I'm happy to help, but we only accept new questions from subscribers!

We have an 11-year old Maltese, neutered male, who has over the last month or two developed patches of yellowish-brown flaky, oily scales. These patches have thickened noticeably within the last several weeks. If we don't pick them off they accumulate and even petting him you can feel them through his hair. He is bathed regularly but also takes a glucosamine/chondroitin tablet each day. Could this be contributing? He has always had a problem with licking his paws but vet says its not an allergy. Can't pinpoint what it may be or if they are even related issues. Do you have any advice or idea what we might be dealing with and how to treat it? We've tried lavender oil but it doesn't help much.

August 18, 2014

Hi Amanda,

You wrote, "takes a glucosamine/chondroitin tablet each day. Could this be contributing?"
No.

You should also consider low thyroid levels and diet.

And, I'm happy to help, and go into more details, (a photo always helps), but we only accept new questions from subscribers! I'll then get back to you right away at the bottom of your newly created web page.
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

My dog is a spade female who always seemed to have a lot of testosterone, I believe she has the same problem. She. Eats ims dog food which I believe is healthy. What should I do??

October 20, 2014

Hi Jayda,

You wrote,
"My dog is a spayed female who always seemed to have a lot of testosterone, I believe she has the same problem. She. Eats ims (IAMS) dog food which I believe is healthy. What should I do??"

A blood test to actually measure testosterone levels may be indicated. And feeding CANNED Iams, NOT dry dog food, is much healthier for her skin. Feeding a RAW diet, is especially good for the skin.

It is difficult for me to fully answer your question without more details on age, breed, photo of skin, etc. although, if you sign up and submit your question and photos, I will be happy to help.

Dr. Carol Jean Tillman