Dog. Small hairless black leathery patch of skin

Question
Hi Ms Connell..
 I really appreciate you making yourself available to pet owners. Thank you.
 My dog has a small black hairless spot on his leg.The spot is About the size of a dime and is kind of a leathery feel. The dog licks the spot often, but the dog has always licked his legs/feet. If I had to guess I would say that it was a scar...
I was wondering about any skin conditions that may start this way or any thoughts you might have on this matter.
Thank you
John

Answer
Hard to say what it might be since I cannot see it. If he is licking it often then I would have it looked at. Melanomas start out as small black patches and can quickly spread. You should have the vet take a look and do a biopsy on it if it looks questionable. It could be a scar also but most dogs do not lick scars once they are healed. It also depends on the breed of dog, and where the black patch is.

If you think it is something more than a scar, then have the vet take a look. Better to be safe then sorry!