Dogs and Hot Spots: What They Are and How to Treat Them

3 min read

If you’ve ever noticed your dog constantly licking, chewing, or scratching one specific spot, only to find a red, inflamed patch of skin, you might be dealing with a “hot spot.” These painful skin sores can develop quickly—sometimes in just a few hours—and they’re one of the most common skin problems in dogs.

The good news? Hot spots are treatable, and with the right care, your pup can be back to normal in no time.

In this post, we’ll break down what hot spots are, what causes them, how to treat them effectively, and ways to prevent them from coming back.

What Are Hot Spots?

A hot spot, or acute moist dermatitis, is a localized skin infection that becomes inflamed, red, and moist—often oozing or crusty. These sores are extremely itchy and uncomfortable for dogs, which leads to more licking and scratching, making the condition worse.

Hot spots are most common in dogs with thick coats, allergies, or a history of skin irritations, but any breed can develop them.

Common Causes of Hot Spots in Dogs

Hot spots usually start with something that irritates the skin, triggering your dog to scratch or lick excessively. Common causes include:

• Flea bites – even one bite can trigger intense itching in sensitive dogs

• Allergies – to food, pollen, dust mites, or grooming products

• Insect bites or stings – mosquitoes, flies, ants

• Moisture trapped in fur – especially after swimming or bathing

• Skin injuries – small cuts, scrapes, or matted fur causing irritation

• Ear infections – dogs may scratch near the ears, leading to sores

  
  

Once the skin is broken, bacteria can grow rapidly, turning a small irritation into a full-blown infection.

How to Treat Hot Spots

Quick action is key. Here’s what to do if you suspect your dog has a hot spot:

1. Contact Your Veterinarian

While mild cases can sometimes be managed at home, it’s best to have your vet examine the sore. They can determine if antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or prescription topical treatments are needed.

🔍 Tip: The sooner you treat a hot spot, the less likely it is to spread or worsen.

2. Gently Trim the Fur Around the Hot Spot

Your vet (or you, if comfortable) will often clip the fur around the area to let air in and make cleaning easier.

💡 Use blunt-tipped scissors or clippers and be gentle—your dog’s skin will be very sensitive.

3. Clean and Disinfect the Area

Wash with a vet-approved antiseptic solution or chlorhexidine. Avoid harsh soaps or hydrogen peroxide, which can slow healing.

📣 Always follow with a vet-recommended ointment or spray to soothe and protect the area.

Important Considerations

Before treating a hot spot, keep the following in mind:

• Do Not Ignore It: Hot spots can worsen dramatically in just a day or two.

• Avoid Over-the-Counter Human Creams: Some contain ingredients toxic to dogs.

• Prevent Licking: Use an e-collar (cone) or protective covering so your dog can’t irritate the sore further.

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How to Prevent Hot Spots

Prevention focuses on keeping your dog’s skin healthy and free from excessive moisture or irritation:

💵 Flea Prevention: Use year-round flea control to avoid bites and allergic reactions.

🏪 Dry Thoroughly: After swimming or bathing, dry your dog completely—especially in thick-coated breeds.

📱 Regular Grooming: Brush your dog often to prevent matting and check for skin irritations.

🥗 Healthy Diet: Support skin health with balanced nutrition and omega-3 fatty acids.