Hot Spot on Dogs: Treatments and Prevention

Hot spots on dogs are a common and frustrating skin issue that can develop quickly and cause significant discomfort. These red, inflamed, and often oozing sores can appear anywhere on a dog’s body but are most commonly found on the head, legs, and hips. Hot spots tend to spread fast, making early treatment essential to prevent infection and further irritation.

Dogs develop hot spots for various reasons, including allergies, moisture buildup, insect bites, and excessive licking or scratching. While external treatments help heal the skin, long-term prevention requires addressing the underlying causes—which often include diet, grooming habits, and overall skin health.

A dog’s nutrition plays a critical role in skin and coat health. Poor-quality dog food with artificial additives, fillers, and low-grade ingredients can contribute to chronic skin irritation, inflammation, and recurring hot spots. On the other hand, a fresh, nutrient-rich diet supports a healthier immune system and can help reduce skin issues over time.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about hot spots on dogs, from what causes them and how to treat them to effective prevention strategies that keep your dog’s skin healthy and irritation-free.

Key Takeaways

• Hot spots on dogs are inflamed, irritated skin lesions that can spread quickly if not treated. They are often caused by allergies, moisture buildup, parasites, or excessive licking and scratching.
• Proper treatment includes cleaning the affected area, applying topical medications, and preventing further irritation to promote healing.
• A fresh, nutrient-rich diet such as Ollie supports skin health and can help reduce the risk of hot spots by strengthening the immune system and minimizing inflammation.

What Is a Hot Spot on a Dog?

A hot spot, also known as acute moist dermatitis, is a localized area of inflamed, infected skin that appears red, swollen, and often oozing. These painful sores can develop rapidly and worsen if left untreated, as dogs tend to lick, bite, or scratch the irritated area, further damaging the skin.

Hot spots can occur anywhere on a dog’s body, but they are most commonly found on the head, neck, chest, hips, and limbs. Certain breeds with thicker coats (such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds) are more prone to hot spots, especially in hot and humid weather, where moisture gets trapped against the skin.

How Do Hot Spots Develop?

Hot spots form when something irritates the skin, prompting a dog to lick, chew, or scratch excessively. This leads to skin damage, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply, causing infection and inflammation. The affected area can become moist, warm, and painful, sometimes emitting a strong odor if an infection is present.

Signs of a Hot Spot

• Red, inflamed skin that appears irritated or raw
• Constant licking, chewing, or scratching at one area
• Hair loss or bald patches around the hot spot
• Oozing, pus, or crusting as the infection progresses
• Foul odor, indicating bacterial overgrowth
• Pain and sensitivity, with dogs reacting when the area is touched

Hot spots can grow rapidly within hours, so early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent further discomfort and infection.

What Causes Hot Spots on Dogs?

Hot spots can develop for a variety of reasons, but they all start with skin irritation that triggers excessive licking, scratching, or chewing. Once a dog begins to damage the skin, bacteria can multiply rapidly, leading to infection and inflammation. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is key to preventing future hot spots.

1. Allergies (Food, Environmental, or Flea Allergies)

Allergic reactions are one of the most common causes of hot spots. Dogs with food allergies or sensitivities may experience chronic itching and skin irritation, leading to excessive licking and scratching. Environmental allergens, such as pollen, mold, and dust mites, can also cause inflammation. Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is another trigger, where a single flea bite can cause an intense allergic reaction, resulting in hot spots.

2. Moisture & Poor Grooming

Excess moisture trapped in the fur, whether from swimming, bathing, or humid weather, creates the perfect environment for bacterial overgrowth. Dogs with thick coats are especially prone to developing hot spots if their fur remains damp for too long. Matted fur can also trap dirt, debris, and moisture, leading to irritation and infection.

3. Parasites (Fleas, Mites, and Ticks)

Fleas, mites, and ticks cause intense itching, prompting dogs to bite, chew, and scratch at their skin. If a dog has an undiagnosed parasite infestation, they may develop multiple hot spots due to constant irritation. Regular flea and tick prevention is crucial in keeping skin healthy.

4. Skin Infections & Bacterial Overgrowth

Once a dog damages their skin by licking or scratching, bacteria can quickly take over the irritated area, leading to inflammation, pus, and further discomfort. If left untreated, these infections can spread, making treatment more difficult.

5. Excessive Licking & Scratching (Due to Stress or Boredom)

Dogs experiencing anxiety, stress, or boredom may resort to excessive licking or chewing, even if there is no underlying skin condition. This compulsive behavior can damage the skin over time, creating painful hot spots. Providing mental stimulation, exercise, and calming solutions can help reduce stress-related licking.

6. Underlying Medical Conditions

Chronic health issues, such as ear infections, hormonal imbalances, or immune system disorders, can make a dog more prone to skin infections and hot spots. If hot spots occur frequently, a deeper medical issue may be the cause.

7. Poor Diet & Nutritional Deficiencies

A dog’s skin and coat health are directly linked to their diet. Low-quality dog food that lacks essential fatty acids, vitamins, and quality protein can contribute to dry, irritated skin and chronic inflammation, increasing the likelihood of hot spots. A human-grade, fresh dog food diet rich in Omega-3s and antioxidants helps maintain healthy skin and a strong immune system, reducing the risk of recurring skin problems.

Dog Hot Spot Treatment: How to Heal Them Fast

Hot spots can worsen quickly, so immediate treatment is essential to stop the infection from spreading and relieve your dog’s discomfort. Proper care involves cleaning the area, preventing further irritation, and addressing the underlying cause to ensure the hot spot heals completely.

Before trying at home treatment options it is typically recommended to speak with your veterinarian for more personalized recommendations and guidance.

Step 1: Trim the Fur Around the Hot Spot

Long or matted fur can trap moisture and bacteria, preventing the hot spot from healing. Using pet-safe clippers (never scissors), carefully trim the hair around the affected area to allow airflow and better access for cleaning and treatment.

Step 2: Clean the Hot Spot

Gently clean the area using a vet-approved antiseptic or chlorhexidine solution to remove bacteria and reduce inflammation. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can further irritate the skin and slow healing.

Step 3: Apply a Topical Treatment

Once the area is clean and dry, apply a veterinarian-recommended antibacterial or anti-itch spray, cream, or medicated ointment to soothe irritation and fight infection. Some common treatments include:

• Antibiotic ointments to prevent bacterial infections.
• Hydrocortisone creams to reduce itching and inflammation.
• Natural remedies like aloe vera or chamomile for mild cases.

Step 4: Prevent Licking & Scratching

Dogs instinctively lick or scratch irritated skin, which can worsen the hot spot and delay healing. To prevent further damage, consider using:

• An Elizabethan (E-collar or “cone”) to block access to the wound.
• Soft recovery collars or bodysuits for a more comfortable alternative.
• Distraction techniques like chew toys or interactive feeders to keep your dog’s mind occupied.

Step 5: Address the Root Cause

While treating the hot spot itself is important, identifying and eliminating the underlying trigger is key to preventing future flare-ups. If the hot spot was caused by allergies, parasites, stress, or poor nutrition, taking proactive steps—such as improving your dog’s diet, using flea prevention, and managing skin allergies—will help stop recurring issues.

Step 6: Monitor for Signs of Infection

Keep a close eye on the hot spot as it heals. If you notice worsening redness, pus, foul odor, swelling, or excessive pain, the infection may require oral antibiotics or prescription treatments from a veterinarian.

Speeding Up Recovery with Proper Nutrition

A fresh, high-quality diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential nutrients helps support skin healing and reduces inflammation. Dogs with chronic skin issues often benefit from eliminating low-quality ingredients and switching to a more balanced, nutrient-dense diet to promote long-term skin health.

When to Expect Healing

With proper care, most hot spots start improving within a few days and heal completely within 1 to 2 weeks. However, if your dog continues to develop hot spots, a deeper issue—such as dietary deficiencies, allergies, or stress-related licking—may need to be addressed.

How to Prevent Hot Spots on Dogs

Preventing hot spots requires a proactive approach to skin health, grooming, and overall well-being. By identifying triggers and making small adjustments to your dog’s routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of recurring hot spots.

1. Maintain Regular Grooming and Keep Fur Dry

Dogs with long or thick coats are more prone to hot spots, especially in humid weather. Regular brushing helps prevent matting, removes debris, and improves air circulation to the skin. After baths or swimming, make sure to thoroughly dry your dog’s coat, as trapped moisture can create the perfect environment for bacterial growth.

2. Use Flea and Parasite Prevention

Fleas, ticks, and mites are common irritants that trigger excessive licking and scratching, leading to hot spots. Using a vet-approved flea and tick prevention routine can help protect your dog’s skin and prevent infestations that cause irritation.

3. Manage Allergies That Cause Skin Irritation

Dogs with food or environmental allergies are more likely to develop hot spots due to chronic itching and skin inflammation. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, flea bites, and certain food ingredients. If your dog frequently suffers from itchy skin, consider working with your vet to identify triggers and make dietary adjustments if needed.

4. Provide Mental Stimulation and Reduce Stress

Excessive licking and chewing can sometimes be caused by boredom, anxiety, or stress rather than a physical skin issue. Providing interactive toys, regular exercise, and mental enrichment can help redirect this behavior and prevent stress-related licking.

5. Feed a High-Quality Diet for Skin and Coat Health

A dog’s skin health is directly linked to their nutrition. Diets that lack essential fatty acids, vitamins, and high-quality proteins can contribute to dry, irritated skin that is more prone to hot spots. Feeding a fresh, well-balanced diet such as Ollie which is rich in Omega-3s and antioxidants helps support skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the skin barrier, making your dog less susceptible to recurring skin issues.

6. Address Underlying Health Conditions

If your dog frequently develops hot spots, an underlying medical condition—such as hormonal imbalances, immune disorders, or chronic infections—may be to blame. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and manage health issues before they lead to recurring skin problems.

Final Thoughts

Hot spots on dogs can develop quickly and cause significant discomfort, but with early treatment and proper prevention, they can be effectively managed. Identifying and addressing the root cause—whether it’s allergies, moisture buildup, parasites, or stress—is key to stopping hot spots before they start.

While cleaning and treating the affected area helps with immediate relief, long-term skin health requires a proactive approach. Regular grooming, parasite prevention, and feeding a nutrient-rich diet all play a crucial role in reducing inflammation and strengthening the skin barrier.

Since poor nutrition can contribute to chronic skin issues, feeding a high-quality, fresh diet with Omega-3s and essential nutrients supports a healthier coat and stronger immune system, making dogs less prone to hot spots and other skin irritations.

By staying ahead of potential triggers and prioritizing skin-friendly nutrition and care, you can help your dog stay comfortable, itch-free, and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Spots

1. What does a hot spot look like on a dog?

A hot spot appears as a red, inflamed, and sometimes oozing sore on the skin. It may have a moist, raw appearance, and dogs often lick, bite, or scratch the area excessively. As the infection progresses, the spot can become larger, more irritated, and may emit a foul odor.

2. Are hot spots contagious to other dogs?

Hot spots themselves are not contagious, but the underlying cause—such as bacterial infections, parasites, or fungal infections—could be. If multiple dogs in the household are experiencing skin irritation, it’s best to consult a vet to rule out contagious conditions.

3. Can I treat my dog’s hot spot at home?

Yes, mild hot spots can often be treated at home by trimming the fur around the area, cleaning it with a vet-approved antiseptic, and applying a topical treatment. However, if the hot spot worsens, spreads, or shows signs of infection (such as pus or a foul odor), a veterinary visit is necessary.

4. Do hot spots go away on their own?

Hot spots rarely heal without intervention and can worsen quickly due to excessive licking and bacterial growth. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread, leading to more severe skin damage. Early treatment is key to preventing complications.

5. Should I cover my dog’s hot spot?

Covering a hot spot is generally not recommended, as air circulation is essential for healing. However, preventing licking and scratching is crucial. An Elizabethan collar (E-collar) or a soft recovery collar can help stop a dog from aggravating the area.

6. Can diet help prevent hot spots?

Yes, nutrition plays a major role in skin health. A diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and essential vitamins helps reduce inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and support overall immune function. Dogs on low-quality diets with fillers and artificial ingredients may be more prone to skin issues, including hot spots.

7. What dog breeds are prone to hot spots?

Breeds with thick coats, long fur, or skin folds are more prone to hot spots, especially in humid conditions. Commonly affected breeds include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Saint Bernards. Regular grooming and proper skin care can help reduce the risk.