Alfonso asks:

I've a 3 year old german shepard that develops red little patches on his lips and snout, his vet can't figure it out. I've seen several gsd that have it.

Any idea what that could be?

Thank you.

Barbara's Answer:

If your vet has not checked for allergies, then that is certainly a possibility. Another possibility is Discoid Lupus Erythematosus.

According to online veterinarian resources, Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is considered a benign form of systemic lupus, an autoimmune disease. Discoid lupus is limited to the skin and can affect both people and dogs.

In dogs, the face and in particular the nose are commonly affected areas. Some breeds of dogs are at increased risk for developing Discoid Lupus. These include collies, German shepherds, and huskies.

Diagnostic signs include: The area of skin affected loses hair (alopecia), becomes depigmented, looks red with possible erosions or ulcers and crusting.

Your vet can confirm a diagnosis with a skin biopsy taken from affected areas. Treatment is usually systemic or topical corticosteroids. If your dog has Discoid Lupus you should reduce his exposure to direct sunlight and use sun-blocking creams.

Keep working with your vet and hopefully this will help.