If you’ve ever noticed a sudden red, irritated patch of skin on your dog that seems to grow larger by the hour, you may be dealing with a hot spot. 

Hot spots on dogs are a common skin condition that can be both uncomfortable and worrying. These inflamed sores appear quickly, often look wet or red, and can cause your dog to scratch or lick obsessively, making the problem worse.

But that’s not all.

Hot spots can affect dogs of any breed or size, though they are more common in dogs with thicker coats or those who live in humid environments. If these are left untreated, the lesions can spread and lead to secondary infections, so it’s important to act quickly when you notice one.

Let’s talk more about it so we can protect our dogs from these painful sores.

What Causes Hot Spots on Dogs?

Hot spots don’t just pop up for no reason. There’s always a trigger, a cause, that should be looked into. But here’s the good news. Most of these causes are easy to spot once you know what to look for. 

Let’s break it down. Here are the common causes of hot spots on dogs:

Allergies

Skin allergies are a common enemy when it comes to your dog's health. They cause significant discomfort and can cause more problems, such as hot spots. Here are the common allergies dogs have:

• Environmental allergies. Pollen, grass, mold, and dust can cause itching and irritation.

• Food allergies. Certain ingredients, like chicken, beef, or dairy, may trigger allergic reactions in some dogs.

• Flea allergies. Even one single flea bite can cause itching for dogs with flea allergy dermatitis.

Parasites

Fleas, ticks, and mites are a common source of itching for dogs. When these parasites bite or burrow into the skin, they can cause irritation that causes excessive scratching or licking. This behavior damages the skin and creates the perfect conditions for bacteria to take hold and form a hot spot.

Poor Grooming

When a dog’s coat is neglected, mats and tangles can form, trapping dirt, bacteria, and moisture close to the skin. This creates irritation and inflammation, increasing the likelihood of hot spots in your dog. Because of this, regular grooming is very important, especially for dogs with thick fur.

Additionally, dogs with thick or long fur are particularly vulnerable to hot spots caused by trapped moisture. After swimming, bathing, or even getting caught in the rain, moisture can linger under their coat if they aren’t dried thoroughly. 

This means that it’s important to dry your dog up thoroughly after a swim or bath. The damp environment encourages bacteria growth, which can quickly lead to a hot spot. Yes, even leaving your dog wet can be a problem. It’s all in the little things.

Infections

Sometimes, hot spots are secondary to another issue, such as a skin or ear infection. For example, a dog with an ear infection might scratch or rub the area excessively, creating the conditions for a hot spot to form. Hot spots can start small and, if not addressed, can worsen and lead to more infections.

Infections in other parts of the body can also cause localized irritation that leads to these lesions.

Stress or Boredom

Stress and boredom can lead to repetitive behaviors in dogs, such as licking, chewing, or biting their skin. Over time, this can damage the skin’s surface and result in a hot spot.

Stress may be caused by changes in routine, new environments, or separation anxiety, while boredom often occurs when dogs don’t get enough mental stimulation or exercise. So, it's important to keep your dog happy.

What Do Hot Spots Look Like on Dogs?

Hot spots can appear suddenly and worsen quickly, making it important to recognize the signs early. These inflamed, irritated areas of skin are not only uncomfortable but can also cause some serious infections in your dog.

One of the first signs that your dog might have a hot spot is their behavior. Dogs with hot spots will be visibly disturbed and uncomfortable. They tend to lick it nonstop in an attempt to relieve the irritation. Unfortunately, this only makes the problem worse. 

Constant licking, chewing, or scratching creates more problems and worsens the condition of your dog’s skin.

Hot spots are often easy to spot because of their distinct appearance. They appear as areas of red, irritated skin that stand out from the surrounding healthy skin. The affected area may feel warm or even hot to the touch. 

As the hot spot progresses, you might see swelling or thickened skin around the area. In severe cases, scabs or crusty patches can develop as the skin tries to repair itself. These spots may also have areas of hair loss.

Because dogs with hot spots often bite or chew their skin, hair loss may develop as well. Hot spots often develop in areas where the dog has been scratching, chewing, or licking excessively. This repetitive activity can cause the fur to fall out, creating bald spots and areas of thinning fur.

One feature you can also notice in some cases is the moist, oozing sores of your dog’s hot spot.

The skin can produce a clear or yellowish discharge, and you may notice a scab forming around the edges as the body tries to heal itself. When this happens, you may notice a strong, unpleasant smell coming from the area. 

Treating Hot Spots on Dogs

If you’ve identified a hot spot on your dog, don’t worry. While they can look alarming, hot spots are treatable with the right approach. The goal is to act quickly and stop our dogs from causing further damage and irritation to their skin.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to treat your dog’s hot spots:

1. Visit the Vet

   
   

   The first step is to visit our vets, especially if the hot spot is large or looks infected. We’ll diagnose the root cause of your dog’s hot spot and provide a detailed treatment plan. Depending on the cause, we may prescribe pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or corticosteroids.

   
   

   We’ll also teach you how to care of your dog’s skin at home.

   
   

2. Trim the Hair Around the Hot Spot

   
   

   To help the area heal, you’ll need to trim the fur around your dog’s hot spot carefully. This prevents hair from trapping moisture and bacteria and allows better air circulation. If you need help, our professional dog groomers can also assist.

   
   

3. Clean the Affected Area

   
   

   Gently clean the hot spot with an antiseptic solution or a pet-safe cleanser. Use a clean cloth to wipe the area. Avoid harsh products like hydrogen peroxide, as they can damage healthy tissue.

   
   

4. Apply a Topical Treatment

   
   

   After cleaning, apply a soothing, vet-approved topical ointment or spray to help your dog’s skin recover. These products help soothe your dog’s skin and promote healing. Common products include those with hydrocortisone or antimicrobial ingredients to address bacteria and itchiness.

   
   

5. Prevent Your Dog From Licking or Scratching

   
   

   One of the biggest challenges in treating a hot spot is keeping your dog from making it worse. An Elizabethan collar or soft recovery cone can prevent licking and biting, giving the area a chance to heal. If your dog is particularly persistent, consider protective clothing like a doggy T-shirt.

Healthy skin is the foundation of a happy dog. Nourish your best friend with proper care, balanced nutrition, and a little extra love every day.

- Dr. Nenad Misura

Preventing Hot Spots on Dogs

While hot spots can be treated effectively, prevention is always the better option. Here are some practical steps to help keep your dog from hot spots.

Grooming is one of the best ways to prevent hot spots. This is especially true for dogs with long or thick coats. Grooming helps remove loose fur, prevents matting and tangling, and allows you to monitor your dog’s skin. Make sure to brush your dog’s coat frequently and schedule baths as needed. Just make sure to dry your dog properly.

Additionally, you will need to provide regular parasite control treatment for your dogs. 

Parasites such as fleas and ticks are common causes of hot spots on dogs, which means regular treatments are essential. Our vets can assist in setting up a schedule for your dog.

Switching shampoos can also be a good thing. Your dog’s skin might be sensitive to its usual product, which means a change is due. Bring your dog in, and we’ll help you select the best products from our vet pharmacy.

Conclusion

Hot spots on dogs can be painful and uncomfortable. These inflamed sores can be a problem for our best friends, hindering them from enjoying everything life has to offer. However, they are manageable and preventable with the right knowledge and care.

The key is to act quickly when you notice a hot spot. Follow our tips, and make sure to call us if you need any help. By acting immediately, you can keep your dog happy and healthy.