Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 9/8/2009

Question
My schnauzer (miniature mix with Pekinese) is 3 yrs old. He does got to a vet. Just recently (about 2 weeks) he ran through some unmowed grass and started itching a day or two later. We have checked him for fleas (none that we can observe.) He has licked and scratched a lot but no bleeding. He has developed a brown like stain under his rear legs, belly and under shoulders. These are light brown and blotches (not everywhere.)
 I am bathing him with cool water and will start a medicated shampoo regimen, but thought I would asked first. Sometimes you can't get the vet for a consultation ( usually an assistant.) This particular vet is reliable and kind, but very busy.  Joe

Answer
The brown stain you are seeing is a pigment from his saliva staining the hair coat.  That indicates that the dog is itching and is licking himself a lot.  It could be from an allergy to something he was in contact with.  If you can get to a vet, get him a steroid shot and steroid tablets for a few weeks to take away the itching.