What Is a Hot Spot on a Dog?

What is a hot spot on a dog? A hot spot is a painful skin condition that occurs when a dog repeatedly scratches, chews, or licks an itchy area until the skin becomes red, raw, and infected. Hot spots can worsen quickly, but with prompt veterinary care from Lakeland Animal Clinic, they are both treatable and preventable.

Treatment for dog hot spots often includes topical or oral steroids to reduce inflammation and itching, antibiotics to treat secondary infections, and allergy medications to address the underlying cause. Preventing hot spots typically involves parasite control, proper nutrition, and managing allergies. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any medications, as many human products can be toxic to pets.

What Causes a Hot Spot on a Dog?

Hot spots are most commonly caused by trauma from excessive licking, chewing, or scratching. These actions irritate the skin and superficial nerve endings, which increases itching and causes the dog to continue the behavior.

This repetitive cycle is what defines a hot spot. A lesion can start as something as small as a pinhead and expand into a large, raw area in a very short period of time.

What Are the Symptoms of a Hot Spot?

Hot spots vary in size, but they typically appear as intensely red, inflamed patches of skin. Common signs of a hot spot include:

• Constant licking, biting, or chewing of one area

• Bald or thinning patches of fur

• Swollen or irritated skin

• Intense itching

• Pus or fluid discharge

• A foul or unpleasant odor

• Bright redness

• Crusting or scabbing

Because other skin conditions can look similar, it is important to have your veterinarian evaluate your dog for an accurate diagnosis. Moisture from swimming or rain can also make hot spots worse.

How Do You Treat a Hot Spot on a Dog?

The primary goal of hot spot treatment is to stop the itch–lick–scratch cycle and prevent the infection from spreading deeper into the skin. Preventing your dog from further irritating the area is essential.

Veterinary treatment for hot spots may include:

• Using an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent licking and scratching

• Allergy medications to address the underlying cause of itching

• Topical steroids to reduce inflammation and discomfort

• Topical or oral antibiotics to treat secondary infections

• Gently cleaning the area with an antiseptic or hot spot–specific solution

• Carefully trimming the hair around the lesion

• Applying a cool compress to soothe irritation and then patting the area dry

In some cases, medicated shampoos or wipes may also be recommended. With proper veterinary care, most hot spots improve quickly, often within three to seven days.

How Do You Prevent Hot Spots on Dogs?

Preventing hot spots requires identifying and managing the underlying cause of itching, along with practicing consistent preventive care.

Proper Nutrition

Poor nutrition can contribute to skin problems and trigger hot spots. Signs of dietary issues may include:

• Digestive upset

• Skin irritation

• Recurrent ear infections

Food allergies or low-quality diets can cause persistent itching. Feeding a high-quality, well-balanced diet helps support healthy skin and coat.

Control Parasites

Fleas and other parasites commonly cause intense itching. Without proper parasite prevention, dogs are at a much higher risk of developing hot spots. Regular flea control and routine bathing with dog-safe shampoos are important preventive measures.

Maintain Good Grooming

Dogs with long or thick coats need regular grooming to prevent moisture and debris from becoming trapped against the skin. Trim enough fur to allow flea preventatives to reach the skin, but avoid over-trimming, which can expose the skin to allergens.

Limit Exposure to Allergens

Environmental allergies can trigger itching and hot spots. Common allergens include:

• Ragweed

• Freshly cut grass

• Pollen

• Dust mites

Identifying and limiting exposure to allergens can significantly reduce flare-ups.

Alleviate Boredom

Some dogs lick or chew their skin due to boredom or stress. Mental and physical stimulation through walks, playtime, food puzzles, and interactive toys can help prevent this behavior.

Consider Supplementation

Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil, provide anti-inflammatory benefits that support skin health and may reduce allergy-related itching.

Conclusion

Hot spots are painful skin lesions that can cause significant discomfort for dogs, but with prompt treatment and preventive care, they can often be resolved quickly. Addressing the underlying cause of itching is key to preventing recurrence.

For dog parents in the Lakeland, FL area, Lakeland Animal Clinic is here to help. Call us today at (863) 688-3338 or book an appointment online.