Nipples or Ticks

Question
I would like to know how many nipples are on a male chow/Australian shepherd dog. I came across these 2 tick like looking things located in the exact same area and look as though they are part of the skin. Please help let me know if this is normal, or if there should be concern.
Thanks you for our time.
Becky

Answer
Dear Becky,

Thank you for writing to me about your chow/aussie mix.   

It is imperative that you have your vet look at the spots that you've described to determine if these might be malignant growths.  Raised areas that are dark can easily be melanoma.  Please have your vet or a doggie dermatologist determine if these are of concern.

Regards,
Shelley Davis