Understanding and Treating Hot Spots on Dogs
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are common skin conditions in dogs that require prompt treatment to avoid escalation. These inflamed, oozing, red lesions can appear suddenly and deteriorate rapidly if not properly managed.
What Are Hot Spots?
Hot spots are localized areas of skin infection and inflammation. They are typically caused when dogs excessively lick, chew, or scratch at a specific area of the skin, disrupting the skin barrier. When this occurs, normal skin bacteria take advantage of the broken barrier and multiply, leading to infection.
Common Symptoms of Hot Spots
- Red, moist, inflamed patches of skin
- Hair loss surrounding the lesion
- Intense itching and licking
- Discharge or pus from the site
- Crusting or matted fur around the hotspot
- Foul odor emanating from the affected area
- Pain or sensitivity when touched
Why Hot Spots Don't Go Away By Themselves
Without intervention, hot spots tend to worsen due to continued irritation and bacterial overgrowth. The affected dog often cannot resist the urge to scratch or lick the area, perpetuating a cycle of trauma and infection. If untreated, the hot spot may evolve into a more serious condition like folliculitis or cellulitis.
Underlying Causes of Hot Spots
Hot spots often signal a deeper issue. Common root causes include:
- Allergies — from food, environmental allergens, or flea saliva
- Parasites — fleas, mites, or ticks
- Ear infections — leading to head shaking and irritation near ears and neck
- Poor grooming — matting and trapped moisture encourage infection
- Insect bites — stimulating an intense localized immune response
- Contact irritants — like chemicals or rough fabrics
- Pain or arthritis — causing dogs to lick or chew localized areas excessively
- Behavioral issues — like stress, anxiety, or boredom
Which Dogs Are Most At Risk?
Dogs with thick or long coats are more prone to hot spots, especially during humid months or if their coats do not dry properly after swimming or bathing. Breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, St. Bernards, and Newfoundlands are particularly susceptible.
Treatment for Hot Spots
Because hot spots are painful and can grow quickly, treatment should begin as soon as they are noticed. Veterinary care is often required for moderate to severe cases. Treatment may include:
- Clipping the fur around the lesion to keep it dry and clean
- Cleaning the area with a water-based antiseptic like chlorhexidine
- Topical medications including drying agents and antibiotics
- Oral or injectable antibiotics for serious infections
- Anti-itch or anti-inflammatory medications like prednisone or antihistamines
- Elizabethan collars (cones) to prevent further self-trauma
- Treating underlying causes like addressing allergies or infections
Avoid using human medications like Neosporin or hydrocortisone without veterinary approval, as they may worsen the condition by encouraging more licking.
When To See a Vet
Veterinary attention is crucial if:
- The hot spot is large or spreading rapidly
- There is a foul smell, discharge, or significant swelling
- The spot is near sensitive areas like the eyes or throat
- Your dog shows signs of systemic illness like fever or lethargy
Home Remedies: Proceed With Caution
Mild hot spots may be managed at home if caught very early, but it's advisable to consult a veterinarian first. If there’s no improvement within 1–2 days or the condition worsens, professional treatment is necessary.
Preventing Hot Spots
Regular care can reduce the risk of hot spots. Here are some effective prevention strategies:
- Routine grooming to avoid matting and allow air circulation
- Drying the coat thoroughly after bathing or swimming
- Flea and tick prevention as recommended by your vet
- Managing allergies through vet-guided dietary or medication plans
- Caring for the ears to prevent yeast or bacterial infections
- Providing mental stimulation to avoid boredom-induced licking
- Feeding a balanced diet to promote skin health
The Bottom Line
Hot spots on dogs are unlikely to go away on their own and often require veterinary treatment. Ignoring them can lead to significant skin damage and infection. Thankfully, with early intervention and good care practices, these uncomfortable lesions can be quickly brought under control and often prevented in the future.
