What Are Hot Spots On Dogs and How Do You Treat Them?

Your dog seems otherwise healthy, but suddenly, you notice that the dog is itching, scratching, and seems to be uncomfortable. If you spot an area of inflammation on the skin that feels warm to the touch, your dog may have a hot spot. Hot spots on dogs are very common and perfectly treatable. Here are a few things to know.

What are hot spots on dogs?

Hot spots are a very common skin issue among canines. The spot itself is a localized type of skin inflammation and possibly a sign of a bacterial infection. The spot can be so localized that oftentimes, owners wrongly assume the problem is caused by an insect bite. However, a hot spot will usually get worse if it is not treated properly; you may actually start to see the large sore start to ooze and your dog may show signs of discomfort.

Signs of a hot spot include:

What causes hot spots on dogs?

In general, hot spots are caused by localized trauma to the skin that comes along with chewing, scratching, or licking an area that is itching. Hot spots are more likely in the summer or warm weather, which may be related to the fact that dogs are more prone to fleas during these seasons. Nevertheless, some problems can make your dog more prone to hot spots, such as:

Some dog breeds may also be more likely to develop hot spots, such as Labradors, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers.

How do you treat hot spots on dogs?

Hopefully, you can prevent hot spots from occurring. Make sure your pet is on a good natural flea and tick prevention program, keep your dog clean, and make sure you manage any allergies your pet has. On another note, make sure that your dog is getting a good high-quality diet that is rich in fatty acids.

First Aid for Hot Spots

You can tend to a hot spot at home on your own to try to offer your dog some relief.

1. Clip hair around the area if possible
2. Clean the area with mild soap and water and try to keep the area clean
3. Treat the area daily with Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Hot Spot Spray or Vetericyn Plus Hot Spot Antimicrobial Gel

Get Vet Help if the Issue Persists

In most cases, hot spots will subside with a bit of first-aid treatment and possibly a few environmental or dietary changes. However, if your dog continues to have issues with hot spots, it is important to get advice from a holistic vet. Contact us to schedule a holistic vet consultation at Aleyr.