Clinical, Histopathological and Epidemiological Features of Dorsal Melanotrichia of Poodles and Poodle Crosses.

Dorsal melanotrichia in poodles shows seasonal/environmental triggers with high recurrence rates.

This retrospective and prospective case series examined 29 poodles and poodle crosses with dorsal melanotrichia, a coat color change condition previously termed 'doodle dysplasia.' The study characterized clinical presentation, histopathology, and epidemiological features. Average age of onset was 4 years, with summer being the most common season (46%). Recent grooming was noted in 57% of cases. Clinical presentation typically featured serpiginous patterns (67%) on the dorsal thorax and lumbar region (39%), with associated alopecia and texture changes. Of dogs with resolution, 71% experienced recurrence within 12-24 months. Histopathological analysis revealed mild changes including outer root sheath apoptosis and altered follicular pigmentation, without evidence supporting true dysplasia. The condition demonstrates possible seasonal and/or environmental components. Based on these findings, the authors propose renaming this condition from 'doodle dysplasia' to 'dorsal melanotrichia of poodles and poodle crosses' to more accurately reflect the pathophysiology.

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