Hot Spots on Dogs: Causes, Treatment, and Home Remedies

Hot spots on dogs are a frequent skin condition pet owners encounter. These irritated and inflamed areas can have various causes, requiring different treatments depending on their severity.

Understanding what triggers hot spots and knowing the steps to treat and prevent them can help maintain a dog’s health and comfort. This guide will explore the essentials of managing and addressing hot spots in dogs.

What Is a Hot Spot on a Dog?

A hot spot on a dog is a sore red patch of skin that feels painful and might look swollen. These areas, called acute moist dermatitis, can show up anywhere on the dog’s body like the face, neck, legs, or hips.

They usually look similar no matter where they appear. These irritated spots can start small but grow quickly within days, often causing some hair loss.

Hot spots may be minor and heal fast, but they can also lead to more severe problems, including deeper skin wounds.

Definition and Appearance

Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are red, swollen, and often oozing patches of skin. They develop rapidly and can become quite large. The skin may feel warm to the touch, and there is often hair loss around the affected area.

These spots can be very painful and itchy, causing the dog to scratch and lick the area excessively. This behaviour can worsen the condition, leading to secondary infections. Bacterial infections are common if the hot spot is not treated quickly.

Hot spots can be more noticeable on dogs with thicker fur because the fur traps moisture against the skin. These spots are typically round and can vary in size.

Common Locations on Dogs

Hot spots often appear in areas where moisture gets trapped, such as under the ears, neck, and around the hips. Dogs with heavy coats or those that swim frequently are more prone to developing these spots.

Other common locations include the backs of the legs and the base of the tail. Hot spots can also occur in areas where the skin folds or has limited air circulation, such as in overweight dogs or those with dense undercoats.

Identifying the common places for hot spots can help in early detection and treatment, minimising discomfort for the dog. Moisture, warmth, and bacteria are key factors in their development.

What Does a Hot Spot Look Like on a Dog?

A hot spot on a dog is usually red, swollen, and raw. The area may bleed off and on. It often looks wet and sore because of licking, chewing, or scratching.

Unlike other skin issues, like ringworm or mange, hot spots are moist and inflamed. Ringworm and other parasitic infections generally make the skin look dry and cause hair loss, which looks quite different from a hot spot.

Dogs with hot spots often feel pain because of the inflamed and irritated skin.

What Causes Hot Spots on Dogs?

Certain breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, English Bulldogs, and German Shepherds, are more prone to skin issues. Hot spots often stem from conditions causing itchiness, too much licking, or too much moisture. Some common causes include:

Allergies

Dogs can develop hot spots due to allergies. These could be from fleas, certain foods, or seasonal changes. When a dog is allergic to something, their skin may itch intensely, leading to scratching and biting.

Common allergens include certain meats, grains, pollen, dust mites, and cleaning products. These irritants cause the dog’s immune system to react, leading to itchiness. Identifying and avoiding the allergen is key to preventing hot spots caused by allergies.

Infections

Bacterial and fungal infections can lead to hot spots. When a dog’s skin gets an infection, it becomes irritated and itchy. The dog’s response to this can create a hot spot.

Skin infections may arise from cuts, scratches, or other injuries. Moist and warm skin environments make it easier for these infections to thrive. Cleaning and treating skin wounds properly can help prevent infections that cause hot spots.

Poor Grooming

Neglecting regular grooming can contribute to hot spots. When a dog’s fur gets matted or dirty, it can trap moisture, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to multiply.

Regular brushing helps keep the coat clean and free of tangles. Owners should also pay attention to bathing their dogs regularly. Keeping a dog’s coat clean and dry helps prevent hot spots.

Insect Bites

Insect bites from fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes can cause hot spots. The bitten area can become very itchy, leading the dog to scratch and bite the skin. This can result in an open wound and a hot spot.

Using appropriate flea and tick prevention methods, such as topical treatments or collars, can reduce the risk of insect bites and hot spots. Immediate treatment of bites also helps minimise irritation.

Excessive Licking and Chewing

Dogs may excessively lick or chew certain areas due to boredom, stress, or anxiety. This repetitive behaviour can damage the skin, causing it to become inflamed and infected, resulting in hot spots.

Providing plenty of mental and physical stimulation can help reduce the likelihood of this behaviour. It’s also essential to address any underlying stress or anxiety the dog may be experiencing.

Underlying Health Issues

Sometimes, hot spots are a symptom of an underlying health problem. Conditions like hormonal imbalances or autoimmune disorders can make a dog’s skin more prone to irritation and infection.

A vet can conduct tests to diagnose any underlying health issues. Managing these conditions properly is crucial in preventing the occurrence of hot spots. Timely vet visits and treatments can make a significant difference in a dog’s skin health.

Hot spots can appear anywhere but are often found on the face, neck, limbs, or hips.

Hot Spot Treatment for Dogs

Veterinary Treatment for Hot Spots

For serious hot spots, taking your dog to the vet is crucial. If the area is getting larger, bleeding, has a coloured discharge, or causes pain, a vet visit is necessary. They may also be able to determine if a secondary issue like fleas or allergies is the main cause. Treatment often includes oral antibiotics, anti-itch medication, and a recovery cone. Sometimes the vet will shave and clean the spot with antiseptics.

Treating Hot Spots on Dogs at Home

If you can’t see a vet right away, you can try some home remedies to help your dog. Avoid using human medications like Neosporin®, hydrocortisone, or Vaseline®.

Steps to treat hot spots at home:

1. Trim the Area: Use dog clippers to cut the hair around the hot spot. This helps the area dry out and speeds up healing.
2. Clean the Spot: Use a mild antiseptic spray or wipe, like Douxo™ Chlorhexidine 3% PS pads, or an antibacterial shampoo to clean the area.
3. Apply a Safe Spray: Use a spray recommended by vets for hot spots that won’t harm your pet if they lick it. An example is Vetericyn® Plus Antimicrobial Pet Hot Spot Spray.
4. Use a Recovery Cone: Place a cone on your dog to stop them from licking or scratching the hot spot.
5. Monitor the Healing: Keep an eye on the spot for signs of improvement, like less redness and moisture.

If the hot spot doesn’t get better or gets worse, contact your veterinarian for further care and to figure out the main cause.

Ways to Stop Hot Spots on Dogs

To help prevent hot spots on dogs, it’s important to find the cause. Here are some tips that can help:

• Flea Prevention: Always keep your dog up-to-date on flea treatments.
• Regular Grooming: Brush your dog often, especially after they swim.
• Ear Health: Use ear cleansers to stop ear infections.
• Allergy Management: If your dog has allergies, get them treated.
• Prevent Boredom: Use interactive toys to reduce excessive licking.

Even though it’s tough to stop hot spots entirely, these steps can greatly reduce the risk.

Dealing with Complications

When handling hot spots on dogs, it’s important to watch for possible complications. Infection control and monitoring for further spread are key.

Infection Control

Hot spots can quickly become infected. To avoid this, keep the area clean and dry. Gently clean the spot with water and mild soap or a vet-approved cleaner.

After cleaning, apply a topical antibiotic cream. This helps prevent bacteria from entering the wound. Reapply as directed by the vet.

Ensure the dog does not lick or scratch the area. An Elizabethan collar (cone) might help. This stops further irritation and keeps the area safe while it heals.

Regular checks are necessary. Look for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. Contact the vet immediately if these occur.

Monitoring for Spread

Hot spots can spread rapidly if not carefully managed. Daily checks of the affected area and surrounding skin are necessary.

Check for new hot spots or worsening conditions. Shave or trim the fur around the hot spot to keep a clear view. This also helps the area stay dry and clean.

Adjust the treatment as needed. If the hot spot is not improving, consult the vet for a possible change in medication or additional treatment options.

Preventative measures also help. Regular grooming and keeping the dog’s skin dry can reduce the risk of new hot spots forming.

Regular visits to the vet for follow-up checks ensure that any potential spread is caught early and managed effectively.

Long-Term Management

Long-term management of hot spots on dogs involves regular care routines and possible lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence.

Ongoing Care Routines

Dogs with a history of hot spots need regular grooming. This helps keep their skin clean and reduces the risk of infections. Brush your dog’s fur often to remove loose hair and debris.

Bathing with a hypoallergenic shampoo can also help. Check your dog’s skin frequently for early signs of irritation.

Sometimes, diet plays a role in skin health. Feeding your dog a balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids can improve their skin condition. Always consult your vet before making any dietary changes.

Incorporating flea prevention treatments is also essential. Fleas can cause itching and lead to hot spots.

Adjustments in Lifestyle

Exercise and mental stimulation help reduce stress-related licking and scratching. Provide your dog with toys and regular walks.

Keep your dog’s living area clean and dry. Moist environments can lead to skin issues, so make sure their bedding is washed regularly.

Be aware of allergens that might trigger hot spots. If your dog is allergic to something, like pollen or certain foods, try to minimise exposure.

If you have multiple pets, ensure they interact well. Sometimes, aggression or tension can cause excessive licking, leading to hot spots.

When to See a Vet

If you think your dog has hot spots, knowing when to see a vet is important. Some situations are emergencies, while others require follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.

Hot spots can become serious fast. Signs of an emergency include:

• Rapid swelling or spreading
• Severe pain causing your dog to yelp or whine
• Pus or a bad smell from the sore
• Lethargy or loss of appetite

If you see these signs, contact your vet right away. Other symptoms to watch for:

1. High fever
2. Rapid breathing
3. Uncontrollable scratching that leads to bleeding

Dog Hot Spots FAQs

What Causes Hot Spots in Dogs?

Hot spots in dogs often start from a small irritation to the skin, such as a bug bite or wet fur that stays damp after swimming. The dog feels discomfort and begins to scratch or bite, which leads to an open, inflamed hot spot.

Can Dog Hot Spots Heal Without Help?

Minor hot spots can heal on their own with some care from the pet owner. Using a recovery cone or a similar device can prevent the dog from licking or scratching the spot. Trim the fur around the area with clippers and clean the wound with a gentle cleanser. If the hot spot persists or worsens, a trip to the vet is needed.

Can Hot Spots Be Fatal for Dogs?

Hot spots are very painful, but it is extremely rare for them to be fatal in a healthy dog.

What Are Effective Treatments for Dog Hot Spots?

There are multiple ways to treat hot spots, and a vet will help decide which is best. Treatments usually include shaving and cleaning the affected area, stopping the dog from licking or biting it, and using medications to reduce inflammation and discomfort.