- Pumpkin Team
- Sep 23
- 6 min read
Key Points
Hot spots on dogs are caused by factors like allergies, skin irritation, or excessive moisture.
Early recognition of symptoms like redness, swelling, and itching helps in managing the hot spots effectively.
Preventive measures, including regular grooming and addressing underlying health conditions, reduce the likelihood of hot spots developing.
Pet insurance can help reimburse eligible veterinary bills for accidents and illnesses related to hot spots after your plan starts and waiting periods end.
If you're a pet parent, you know how concerning it can be when your pup starts persistently scratching, licking, or biting at one spot on their skin. This behavior may develop into what’s commonly known as a hot spot (sometimes described as skin sores on dogs).
While it may look alarming, the good news is that hot spots are treatable and, with the right approach, even preventable.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hot spots on dogs, including how to identify, treat, and prevent them.
What are hot spots on dogs?
A hot spot, scientifically referred to as acute moist dermatitis, is a localized area of infected and inflamed skin. These spots develop when a dog continuously scratches, bites, or licks an area, which causes the skin to break and become irritated. Once the skin is exposed, it provides a fertile ground for bacteria, which can often lead to infection.
Common characteristics of hot spots
Appearance: Red, moist, and irritated skin that may ooze pus.
Texture: Raised lesions that can crust over as they heal.
Cause: Triggered by itching or irritation and worsened with excessive licking or scratching.
Hot spots can appear and spread rapidly, so early intervention is crucial.
What causes hot spots in dogs?
Hot spots often arise when a dog’s skin becomes irritated and its natural defenses are compromised. When the skin barrier is weakened, it becomes vulnerable to bacterial growth. This leads to inflammation and the rapid onset of painful, infected areas.
These problems often stem from underlying factors such as:
Allergies
Allergies in dogs, environmental factors, food sensitivities, and flea allergies can cause intense itching and skin irritation and initiate a cycle of discomfort and self-trauma.
Fleas and parasites
Fleas and parasites irritate a dog’s skin through their bites which often leads to scratching and licking that breaks down the skin’s defenses.
Excess moisture
Activities such as bathing, swimming, or drooling can leave the fur damp and create a humid environment that fosters bacterial growth and skin irritation.
Skin irritations
Minor wounds or scratches — whether from outdoor adventures or other causes — can quickly worsen if a dog repeatedly licks or chews the area.
Stress or boredom
Stress, boredom, and repetitive behaviors can lead to hot spots in dogs. Repeated grooming behaviors such as excessive licking, chewing, or biting are often triggered by anxiety or lack of stimulation and can damage the skin and contribute to hot spot formation.
Underlying conditions
Underlying conditions such as joint pain, seasonal allergies or skin infections can lead to hot spots on dogs. These chronic irritations prompt self-grooming behaviors that damage the skin and leave it vulnerable to infection.
How to identify a hot spot on your dog
Regularly checking your dog for hot spots is helpful for early detection and treatment, and the best opportunities to do this are often during grooming sessions or after outdoor activities when you can quickly catch and address any conditions.
Here’s what to look out for:
Red, moist skin that suddenly appears.
Frequent scratching or licking of one area.
Hair loss or matting around the affected spot.
Scabbing or crusting as the area starts to heal.
If your dog has a fever, is severely painful, the area is rapidly spreading, there’s foul-smelling discharge, or your dog seems lethargic, go to the veterinary ER.
Common locations include under the ears, on the neck, hips, or limbs. If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to take action and give your veterinarian a call.
How to treat a hot spot on a dog
If you catch hot spots early enough, you can provide home care treatments to help with healing, but if they worsen or fail to improve, you may need to visit a veterinarian for stronger medication. Keep reading to find tips on how to treat an open sore on a dog.
Clean the affected area
Start by gently trimming the fur around the hot spot to prevent further irritation and allow proper cleaning. Clean any irritated areas with a mild antiseptic solution or warm water and pat them dry with a clean towel to avoid infection.
Use pet-safe clippers or scissors like the Casufy Dog Hair Clippers to keep any irritated areas clean of matting or debris. Pet scissors are much safer to use than regular scissors as they have rounded edges to avoid any nicks to the skin, the Pet Magasin Dog & Cat Scissors are a great option.
Treat the infection
Apply a veterinarian-recommended topical antibiotic or antimicrobial cream to the hot spot to reduce bacterial growth and soothe irritation. For severe infections, your veterinarian may prescribe oral antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications to address the issue from within and expedite healing.
Always follow your veterinarian's dosage and application instructions carefully.
Prevent further irritation
To avoid exacerbating the issue, keep your pet from licking or scratching the hot spot by using an Elizabethan collar, also known as an e-collar, or other protective garment. Additionally, maintain a clean and dry area, trim the fur if necessary, and follow your vet's monitoring and care guidelines.
Monitor progress
Check the hot spot daily for signs of improvement, such as reduced redness or swelling. Contact your veterinarian if the area worsens and your dog keeps trying to itch. If inflammation persists or healing doesn’t progress, additional treatment may be necessary.
A Pumpkin Pet Insurance plan could help reimburse eligible veterinary bills for exams, diagnostics, and medications related to hot spots that arise after coverage begins and waiting periods end.
Hot spot prevention tips
Preventing hot spots starts with maintaining your dog’s overall skin and coat health.
Regular grooming is essential. You should brush your dog frequently to prevent matting and remove loose fur, which promotes excess moisture and contributes to inflammation.
Bathing with a gentle shampoo helps keep the skin clean, but avoid over-bathing as it can strip away natural oils.
Keep your dog dry, especially after swimming or bathing, as damp fur fosters the kind of warm, humid environment hot spots thrive in.
Ensure a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids to support skin health.
You should always monitor your dog’s behavior for signs of excessive licking or scratching. Address these triggers promptly by consulting your veterinarian to reduce the risk of recurrent hot spots.
When should you see the veterinarian?
Sudden severe swelling, intense pain, fever, or fast-worsening lesions warrant urgent or emergency care — don’t wait.
Even if it isn’t an emergency, there are times when a veterinary visit is necessary. Here’s when to seek professional help:
The hot spot worsens after 24-48 hours of home treatment.
The affected area spreads or multiplies.
Your dog shows signs of pain, lethargy, or a lack of appetite.
You suspect an underlying issue, such as allergies, parasites, or infections.
Prevention is always the best cure
Hot spots on dogs may look concerning, but they’re manageable with prompt action. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and taking steps to prevent them, you can keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and itch-free.
Pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatments for hot spots, including veterinary consultations and medications.
Want to see what a Pumpkin Pet Insurance plan includes? Fetch a free quote »
FAQs
What is the fastest way to heal a hot spot on a dog?
The fastest way to heal a hot spot is to keep the area clean, apply a veterinarian-approved topical treatment, and prevent your dog from licking or scratching. Visiting your veterinarian ensures proper care and addresses any underlying causes for effective healing.
Can I use human creams on my dog’s hot spot?
No, you should not use human creams on your dog’s hot spot. Many human products contain ingredients that can be toxic to dogs or irritate their skin further. Always opt for recommended treatments from your veterinarian that are specifically formulated for pets to ensure safety and effective healing.
How long does it take for a hot spot to heal?
The healing time for a hot spot typically ranges from a few days to two weeks, depending on severity and treatment. Proper care and timely intervention can speed up recovery.
Is a cone necessary for treating hot spots?
Preventing a dog from licking its hot spot is crucial for healing, as licking can worsen irritation and delay recovery. Using an Elizabethan collar or body suit helps minimize access to the affected area, promoting proper healing and reducing the risk of infection.
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