Dog breeds with thick, double coats, long hair, or skin folds are most prone to hot spots (acute moist dermatitis), particularly during hot, humid weather or after swimming. Key breeds include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Saint Bernards, Rottweilers, Collies, Huskies, and Alaskan Malamutes.

What dogs are prone to hot spots?

Technically called moist dermatitis, hot spots are most common in dogs with long or thick coats, such as Newfoundlands, German Shepherd Dogs and Golden Retrievers. Dogs with drop ears or a hairy coat are most likely to develop this condition.

What can be mistaken for a hot spot on a dog?

Hot spots can be easily confused with other health problems. For instance, ringworm in dogs can manifest similarly at first glance, but ringworm tends to be circular in appearance and is always a fungal infection, while hot spots have irregular borders.

What is the best thing to put on a dog's hot spot?

The best hot spot treatment involves stopping licking/scratching (E-collar), clipping hair, cleaning with antiseptic (chlorhexidine), keeping it dry, and using vet-approved creams/sprays (hydrocortisone, antibiotic), often needing professional prescription meds (steroids, antibiotics, antihistamines) to tackle inflammation and infection, plus addressing underlying causes like allergies or fleas.
 

When should I worry about a hot spot on my dog?

Hot spots in dogs, also called acute moist dermatitis, are rapidly developing skin lesions that can worsen within hours. They need veterinary attention when they show signs of severe infection, rapid spreading, or cause extreme discomfort to your dog.

Hot Spots in dogs | What are they and how do you treat them?

What happens if a hotspot is left untreated?

This common but irritating skin condition occurs most frequently in dogs with longer coats, but dogs of all breeds can be affected. While hot spots themselves aren't necessarily a serious medical issue, they can quickly evolve into severe skin infections, lesions, scarring, and worse without proper treatment.

Do hotspots on dogs spread?

Generally, hot spots are found on the hips, limbs, and head but they can occur anywhere on a dog's body. Due to bacteria that builds up in the hot spots, they can quickly spread to other parts of the dog's body.

How do dogs act when they have hot spots?

Spotting the Signs of Hotspots

You might also notice your dog paying extra attention to the spot by licking, biting, or scratching it excessively. If the hotspot is advanced, it may also ooze pus or have a bad smell. Seeing any of these signs means it's time to call your vet.

How do I stop my dog from getting hotspots?

You should contact your vet to treat allergies and prevent fleas, to reduce the risk of hot spots. Regular grooming and bathing can also help with skin and ear problems.

Do dogs get hotspots from stress?

Stress and Boredom: Dogs that are bored or stressed may lick or chew their skin excessively as a coping mechanism, which can cause hot spots. Ear or Skin Infections: Chronic ear or skin infections can also contribute. Dogs may scratch the infected area excessively, causing skin trauma.

What human foods relieve dog itching?

Omega fatty acids are essential for healthy skin and a shiny coat. They help reduce inflammation, relieve itching, and moisturise the skin. Look for foods that contain fish oils, coconut oil, or flaxseed. We highly recommend our Seafood Bundle to provide your pup with high omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.

Where are hotspots most common on dogs?

Canine hot spots, also known as pyotraumatic dermatitis or acute moist dermatitis, are red, inflamed skin lesions that appear quickly, ooze, and may contain pus. Hot spots can be found anywhere on a dog's body, but the most common sites are the head, legs, and hips.

Why do hot spots keep coming back?

When hot spots keep coming back, it is often a sign that an underlying issue has not been properly addressed. Recurrence could be due to an allergy that hasn't been identified, a parasite infestation that hasn't been fully eradicated, or an undiagnosed medical condition.

Are dog hot spots fungal or bacterial?

Hot Spots can seemingly appear spontaneously anywhere on a dog's body and the area involved can rapidly spread. This raw, unsightly skin disorder has a variety of causes but the most consistent factor is a bacterial infection.

How do vets treat hot spots?

There are many approaches to treating the hot spots, and your veterinarian will help select one for your pup. Most treatments will including shaving and cleaning the wound, preventing licking and biting, and using medication to make the area more comfortable and less likely to get worse.

Why does my dog keep licking his tail raw?

Allergies, especially a food allergy, can cause inflammation of the anal glands, which is irritating to the dog. Other potential causes of a dog licking the base of the tail include fleas in the area, hot spots, perianal fistulas, and perianal tumors.

Which human antibiotic ointment is safe for dogs?

The best way to treat a dog's minor wounds at home

Gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth, taking care not to irritate the wound further. Next, apply a small amount of a pet-safe antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, unless your vet advises otherwise.

How do hot spots start?

Hot spots can occur any time of year, although warm weather usually causes more cases. Allergies and external parasites, such as fleas, are primary causes. Ear infections, often caused by wet ears from activities like swimming, can lead to hot spots under the ear. It's even more likely if a dog has drop ears.

What age do dogs get hot spots?

While any dog can develop hot spots, they occur more commonly in dogs less than 4 years of age and develop more frequently in certain breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Saint Bernards, and German Shepherds.

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