Hot Spot on Dog: Natural Remedy
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is a Hot Spot on a Dog?
The Medical Term for Hot Spots
Breeds Prone to Developing Hot Spots
How Hot Spots Develop
Causes
and Risk Factors for Hot Spots in Dogs
Allergies
Moisture
and Humidity
Parasites
Anxiety,
Stress and Boredom
Existing Skin Conditions
Seasonal
and Temperature Factors
Signs and Symptoms of Hot Spots
Location
of Lesions
Physical
Characteristics
Behavioral
Changes
Differentiating
Hot Spots from Other Skin Conditions
Conventional Veterinary Treatments for Hot
Spots
Antibiotics
Steroids
Antiseptic
Shampoos
Elizabethan
Collars
Topical
Ointments and Sprays
Side
Effects of Medications
Seeking
Prompt Veterinary Care
Holistic and Natural Remedies for Hot Spots
Dietary
Considerations and Changes
Grain-Free
Diets
Limited
Ingredient Diets
Supplements
Home
Remedies and Topical Treatments
Apple
Cider Vinegar
Tea
Tree Oil
Aloe
Vera Gel
Witch
Hazel
Other
Remedies
Lifestyle
Changes to Prevent Hot Spots
Controlling
Moisture and Humidity
Reducing
Stress and Anxiety
Tick
and Flea Prevention
Improving
Overall Diet and Nutrition
Treating Secondary Skin Infections
Signs
of Skin Infection
Obtaining
a Sample for Testing
Common
Oral Antibiotics Prescribed
Topical
Antibiotics and Antifungals
Keeping
the Area Clean
When to See a Veterinarian
Lack
of Improvement
Enlarging
or New Sores
Worsening
Symptoms
Signs
of Infection
Excessive
Licking and Chewing
Frequent
Recurrence
Preventing Hot Spots from Recurring
Allergy
Testing and Hyposensitization
Medicated
Shampoos and Conditioners
Regular
Grooming and Fur Trimming
Moisturizing
Skin Creams
Stress
and Anxiety Reduction
Conclusion
FAQs About Hot Spots on Dogs
Introduction
Hot spots, also referred to as
acute moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis, are a very common skin
condition affecting dogs. These red, oozing, irritated lesions seem to appear
out of nowhere causing significant pain and discomfort for dogs. While our
first reaction may be to reach for conventional treatments like antibiotics and
steroids to provide relief, natural remedies can also be extremely effective in
both healing the current hot spots and preventing their recurrence. 🐶
This comprehensive guide will
provide dog owners an in-depth look at hot spots - what they are, what causes
them, and the multitude of symptoms they produce. Both conventional medical
treatments and holistic natural remedies will be discussed in detail providing
a wide array of options to treat hot spots based on severity and individual
circumstances. Special sections provide guidance on how to differentiate and
treat secondary skin infections, when it is essential to seek veterinary care,
as well as how to make lifestyle adjustments to prevent hot spots from
recurring in the future.
What is a Hot Spot on a Dog?
A hot spot refers to a specific
area of a dog's skin that is inflamed, irritated, and oozing. These painful
lesions seem to emerge out of nowhere and can worsen rapidly if left untreated.
Hot spots typically have a reddish appearance due to inflammation and dilation
of the capillaries and may leak serum or pus. The skin may have an ulcerated
look and will often have surrounding hair loss.
The Medical Term for Hot Spots
The medical terminology for this
skin condition provides additional insight about the characteristics of hot
spots. They are referred to as either:
- Acute moist dermatitis -
Indicates the skin is inflamed and contains an excessive amount of moisture
- Pyotraumatic dermatitis -
Refers to inflammation that is trauma-induced, often by scratching, licking, or
biting
Both terms accurately reflect
causes and symptoms - the irritated skin lesion develops rapidly (acute) in a
moist environment and is often self-induced trauma from the dog licking and
scratching.
Breeds Prone to Developing Hot
Spots
While any breed of dog can
develop hot spots, some breeds seem to be more vulnerable. Dogs with long,
thick coats like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and
spaniels tend to be predisposed. Their heavy coats trap in moisture against the
skin allowing yeast, bacteria and other microbes to thrive.
Short-haired breeds including
Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, and Greyhounds are also frequent victims of hot
spots, often due to dry, flaky skin in colder weather. Seasonal allergies in
the spring and summer lead to skin irritation and itching those results in hot
spots for many breeds.
How Hot Spots Develop
Hot spots seem to appear out of
nowhere, but there is a typical sequence of events that leads to their
development:
1. The skin begins to itch, often
due to an existing allergy or skin condition. The dog scratches or chews the
area to relieve irritation.
2. This self-trauma breaks the
skin, allowing bacteria to enter hair follicles and sebaceous glands located in
the dermis skin layer.
3. As bacteria multiply, the skin
reddens and inflames. There is an influx of neutrophils, the white blood cells
that fight infection. This results in pus and fluid leaking from the wound.
4. The warm, moist environment
encourages yeast overgrowth. The dog continues to paw, lick, and scratch at the
itchy spot.
5. The scratched area rapidly
enlarges into a red, oozing sore with ragged edges. The sore weeps serum, pus
and has a foul odor. Hair surrounding the lesion falls out.
6. Without treatment, the sore
continues to expand and deepen due to the dog's trauma. It can develop into an
open ulcer. The enlarged wound is ripe for secondary skin infections which
complicates treatment.
This sequence makes it evident
why hot spots seem to erupt instantly - the initial skin irritation prompts the
dog to scratch or lick at it. This allows rapid infiltration of microbes
leading to the sudden appearance of an inflamed, oozing skin wound. The dog's
natural instinct to continue licking and chewing the sore causes it to quickly
enlarge and become more painful.
Causes and Risk Factors for Hot
Spots in Dogs
Given how suddenly hot spots
appear in dogs, it is reasonable for owners to wonder what causes them to
develop in the first place. There are a number of potential underlying causes
and risk factors that can make a dog more prone to experiencing hot spots.
Allergies
Dogs plagued by allergies
affecting the skin are at increased risk for acute moist dermatitis lesions.
Both environmental allergies to pollen, grasses, dust mites and mold as well as
food allergies can cause generalized itching and skin irritation. As the dog
self-traumatizes the itchy areas by chewing and scratching, a hot spot rapidly
forms.
For dogs with seasonal allergies
in spring and summer, the feet, ears, groin, armpits and skin folds are often
targeted areas resulting in hot spots. Dogs allergic to proteins in their food
may develop irritated, red skin and hot spots anywhere on the body, but
especially the hind legs, paws, and abdomen. Those with both food and inhalant
allergies suffer year-round skin issues and repeated hot spots.
Moisture and Humidity
Hot, humid weather predisposes
dogs to developing hot spots in a couple ways. Thick coats tend to hold
moisture close to the skin providing the perfect damp environment for yeast and
bacteria to thrive. Dogs also tend to have increased seasonal allergy symptoms
when humidity is high.
Additionally, dogs love playing
in water to cool off but wet fur takes time to fully dry. Lingering dampness
against the skin again allows microbial overgrowth. Frequent swimming or
bathing followed by incomplete drying can lead to recurring acute moist dermatitis
lesions.
Even dogs with short hair can
develop hot spots when high ambient humidity causes the skin surface to remain
excessively moist. Areas with folding skin like the neck, tails, and ears are
especially prone to irritation and infection.
Parasites
External parasites like fleas,
ticks, and sarcoptic mites cause relentless itching when they bite and burrow
into the skin. A dog infested with these parasites will scratch and chew itself
raw trying to relieve the sensation. This self-trauma sets the stage for
damaged skin to become increasingly inflamed and infected.
Flea allergy dermatitis is one of
the most common causes of severe itching and acute moist lesions in dogs. Even
a few flea bites can trigger intense irritation and hot spots with secondary
infections in flea-allergic dogs. Ticks attaching anywhere on the body and
sarcoptic mange mites burrowing into the skin also elicit significant
scratching behavior.
Anxiety, Stress and Boredom
Dogs prone to anxiety or stressed
due to changes in routine, lack of exercise, or inadequate mental stimulation
may begin compulsively licking, chewing, or scratching at themselves. This
neurotic self-grooming behavior called acral lick dermatitis often focuses on a
particular area like the flank or paws.
The persistent licking, chewing
or scratching damages the skin integrity allowing normal bacteria to infiltrate
and expand into a hot spot. These dogs create hot spots simply due to anxiety,
stress and boredom rather than an inciting allergy or skin condition.
Existing Skin Conditions
If a dog suffers from an existing
skin condition causing irritation or itching, they are much more likely to
develop hot spots. Skin disorders like seborrhea, allergic dermatitis, pyoderma
and yeast infections all make the skin vulnerable to self-inflicted injury from
scratching.
The inflammation, redness, skin
discharge and hair loss associated with these conditions also compromises the
skin's natural protective barrier. Damaged skin is easily infected by
opportunistic bacteria and microbiomes. Targeted treatment of the underlying
skin disease is necessary to both resolve hot spots and prevent recurrence.
Seasonal and Temperature Factors
Changes in seasons and ambient
temperatures influence hot spot development as well. Many dogs develop acute
moist lesions during summer when allergies and humidity peak. Airborne
allergens and parasite loads also increase during warmer months.
Short-haired breeds prone to dry,
flaky skin may suffer more hot spots in winter when low humidity further
desiccates the skin surface. These microscopic fissures in the skin allow
ingress of infectious organisms leading to acute moist dermatitis sores. Checking
skin conditions daily helps detect issues promptly.
While the specific trigger may
vary, the common thread is that all these factors create irritated, compromised
skin and provoke self-trauma. This allows normal microbial flora to rapidly
infiltrate and expand into a painful hot spot. Eliminating underlying causes is
key to preventing recurrence of this miserable skin condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Hot Spots
Hot spots produce several
characteristic signs and symptoms though severity can vary based on size of the
lesion and whether infection is present. Being familiar with the typical
clinical presentation helps dog owners identify acute moist dermatitis early
and distinguish it from other potential skin problems.
Location of Lesions
Hot spots can occur anywhere on a
dog’s body but certain locations are more common including:
- Hip/flank region
- Chest/abdomen
- Feet/paws
- Lower back/base of tail
- Inner thighs/groin
- Ears/face/neck
- Armpits
The hip and flank area in
particular tends to be a prime target for hot spots since dogs can easily reach
the area to lick and chew at it. Lesions in areas like the paws, ears and
armpits are also frequently seen due to moisture accumulation in skin folds
trapping infectious microbes.
Dogs with allergies often get hot
spots on areas in direct contact with allergens like feet, ears, face and skin
folds. Parasites lead to lesions wherever they are biting and burrowing into
the skin. If multiple hot spots are present, it suggests a systemic issue like
allergy or skin condition versus a localized irritant.
Physical Characteristics
Typical physical symptoms of hot
spots include:
- Patch of red, moist, oozing
skin
- Pus or serum weeping from the
sore
- Skin inflammation and warmth at
the site
- Hair loss around the lesion
- Crusting and scabbing as the
sore dries out
- Raised, thickened skin edges
with ragged margins
- Unpleasant odor from the
exudate
- Sudden onset that worsens
rapidly
- Increased pain when sore is
touched or palpated
The lesion starts as a small,
reddened area but the dog’s incessant licking and chewing rapidly expands the
size and leads to ulceration, more exudate and a worsening smell. Secondary
infections may develop if sores become large, deep or neglected for too long.
Behavioral Changes
The discomfort and pain caused by
hot spots also produces very noticeable behavioral changes in dogs including:
- Frequent licking, biting, or
scratching at the affected area
- Disinterest in play, walks and
normal activities
- Decreased appetite or refusal
to eat
- Aggression or intolerance of
handling near the sore
- Whimpering, restlessness and
pacing
- Rubbing sore against furniture
or walls for relief
- Increased lethargy and
sleepiness
These behavioral shifts make
sense given how painful hot spots become. The dog desperately tries to soothe
the discomfort through licking and chewing but this makes the problem worse.
Recognizing these subtle behavioral changes facilitates early intervention.
Differentiating Hot Spots from Other
Skin Conditions
There are some other common dog
skin conditions like rashes, insect bites and pressure sores that may initially
look similar to hot spots but have distinguishing characteristics:
Rashes - Often cover larger skin
areas versus a localized lesion. Not typically self-induced trauma. Minimal
fluid discharge or odor.
Insect/spider bites - One or two
bite marks visible. Spotty redness and swelling around bite site rather than
large, spreading lesion.
Abscesses - Swelling and pain but
no significant moisture or odor. May be signs of a puncture wound.
Pressure sores - Found only over
bony prominences like elbows, hips, hocks where pressure restricts blood flow.
Examining the lesion carefully helps determine
whether the symptoms truly indicate a hot spot. The location, appearance,
smell, discharge, and the dog’s apparent pain all contribute to an accurate
diagnosis.
Conventional Veterinary Treatments
for Hot Spots
Once a sore is determined to be a
hot spot, most dog owners reasonably look to their veterinarian for the
quickest treatment to resolve the problem. Conventional remedies often employed
include:
Antibiotics
The infected nature of hot spots
with myriad bacteria present means systemic or topical antibiotics are commonly
prescribed. Oral antibiotics like cephalexin provide full-body treatment while
topical triple antibiotic ointment applied directly to the sore delivers more
targeted relief.
Antibiotics work to:
- Kill pathogenic bacteria
colonizing the lesion
- Prevent further microbial
infiltration of damaged skin
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Help dry the weeping wound
- Resolve any secondary skin
infection
Getting the infection under
control is key before other healing can proceed. Antibiotics provide the most
rapid means to control the bacterial load.
Steroids
Steroids like prednisone or
dexamethasone given orally or by injection provide an anti-inflammatory effect
to reduce swelling, pain and itching of hot spots. By suppressing the immune
response, these drugs quickly improve the dog’s comfort and diminish self-trauma.
However, steroids also have
immune-suppressing side effects with longer duration use and do not address the
underlying cause. They treat the symptom not the problem. Topical
hydrocortisone creams offer more localized anti-inflammatory effects.
Antiseptic Shampoos
Veterinary shampoos containing
chlorhexidine, benzoyl peroxide or ethyl lactate are often prescribed to wash
the affected areas. These solutions have antimicrobial properties and also act
to physically wash away infectious organisms and debris.
Frequent shampooing keeps the
lesion clean to facilitate healing and reduces odor. After shampooing, the fur
should be thoroughly dried to avoid trapping moisture against the skin.
Elizabethan Collars
The plastic cone collar worn
around the neck prevents the dog from excessively licking, chewing and
scratching at the hot spot while it heals. These “E collars” or “cones of
shame” restrict self-trauma that delays healing.
Dogs will make every effort to
remove them however. Other options include bitter tasting topical sprays to
deter licking or inflatable fabric collars that are less abrasive to the neck.
Those with anxiety may require anti-anxiety medication as well.
Topical Ointments and Sprays
Numerous over-the-counter topical
products are marketed to dog owners for treating hot spots and skin infections.
Sprays like Vet Solutions Itch Relief contain hydrocortisone, lidocaine, aloe
and oxyquinoline. Ointments like Genesis Topical spray combine antibacterial
and antifungal medications.
These provide symptomatic relief
and aid healing but caution is advised when applying anything to damaged skin.
Monitor for any adverse reactions. Keeping the area lightly covered with gauze
allows topicals to soak in without oral contact.
Side Effects of Medications
While conventional treatments
provide rapid improvement in most hot spots, some potential side effects may
occur with extensive use including:
- Antibiotic resistance from
chronic antibiotic use
- Immune suppression and adrenal
effects of steroids
- Abdominal upset from oral
medications
- Pain or irritation from topical
chemicals
- Ineffectiveness if underlying
cause remains
Working closely with your
veterinarian allows prompt intervention while avoiding complications from
medications. Follow all label instructions carefully when using any topical
product on your dog.
Seeking Prompt Veterinary Care
While mild cases of acute moist
dermatitis may be treated at home, moderate or severe hot spots do require
prompt veterinary attention. Reasons to schedule an examination of your dog’s
hot spots include:
- The sore continues to spread
after 2-3 days of home treatment
- Symptoms like pain, oozing and
redness are worsening
- Signs of secondary infection
are noted
- New hot spots appear while
existing ones remain
- Your dog constantly aggravates
the wound by licking or chewing it
- Recurrent cases of hot spots
occur frequently
Your vet has access to
prescription antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, medicated shampoos, and
advanced topical treatments that can resolve severe or complex cases. They can
also perform cytology and cultures to identify any underlying infections complicating
healing. Addressing both the current hot spot while searching for contributing
factors are pivotal to preventing recurrence.
Holistic and Natural Remedies for
Hot Spots
While conventional medicine
offers quick symptomatic relief, dog owners interested in more natural
treatments do have several excellent holistic options to treat hot spots and
support the innate healing process. Natural remedies also help strengthen skin
health and prevent recurrence.
Dietary Considerations and Changes
Making some adjustments to your
dog’s diet is often one of the first and most beneficial natural interventions
for hot spots. What your dog eats directly impacts skin health.
Grain-Free Diets
For dogs with suspected food
allergies or sensitivities, removing grains and white potatoes that are common
triggers may significantly diminish skin inflammation and itching. Grain-free,
limited ingredient diets frequently improve many skin disorders.
Carbohydrate sources like sweet
potatoes, chickpeas and lentils are less likely to cause adverse reactions.
Meat should be an easily digested protein source like rabbit, duck or fish.
Monitoring skin health while eliminating allergenic foods is key.
Limited Ingredient Diets
Commercial dog foods containing a
single protein and carbohydrate source are ideal for identifying food triggers
through elimination. Diets using an unusual protein like kangaroo or bison
avoid common allergens.
Hydrolyzed protein foods where
proteins are broken down for easy digestion are another excellent option for
dogs with food allergies affecting the skin and gastrointestinal tract.
Supplements
Specific nutritional supplements
also promote skin health and healing:
- Omega-3 fatty acids - Found in
fish oils. Reduce inflammation and skin infections.
- Probiotics - Support healthy
gut flora and may dampen immune response. Helpful for atopic dogs.
- Antioxidants - Vitamins E, C
and A fight damage from free radicals exacerbating skin disease.
- Zinc - Supports skin integrity
and healing. Often deficient in affected dogs.
- Digestive enzymes - Improve
assimilation of nutrients that maintain skin health.
A combination of dietary changes
and nutritional supplements often produces substantial improvement in hot spots
and other skin conditions caused by allergies or nutritional deficiencies.
Home Remedies and Topical Treatments
Numerous homeopathic remedies can
be applied topically to hot spots to help control infection, reduce
inflammation and promote faster healing. These natural treatments are safe if
used correctly for most dogs.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Diluted apple cider vinegar
applied directly to the hot spot twice daily helps restore normal pH and
prevents yeast overgrowth. It also acts as a gentle antiseptic. Mix one part
vinegar with one part water before applying.
Tea Tree Oil
Several drops of tea tree oil
mixed with coconut or olive oil provides antifungal, antibacterial and
anti-inflammatory effects without toxicity. Limit applications to once daily.
Monitor for any skin reactions.
Aloe Vera Gel
The mucopolysaccharides in aloe
vera provide immediate soothing relief for painful hot spots. Apply liberally
as often as needed. It also functions as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory
for skin wounds.
Witch Hazel
The tannins in witch hazel have
natural astringent properties to dry out oozing sores. Soak a cotton ball in
the solution and gently wipe the hot spot 2-3 times per day. Avoid contact with
eyes.
Other Remedies
Other supportive natural topicals
include raw organic honey, colloidal oatmeal, jojoba oil, calendula and coconut
oil. Essential oils of lavender, clove, rosemary and myrrh also have
antibacterial and antifungal activity when diluted before applying. Observe
your dog’s response to each.
These remedies often provide
symptomatic relief while also addressing the underlying skin imbalance
perpetuating the hot spots. Used collectively, they promote faster, more
holistic healing. Integrating them into conventional treatment allows
medication dosages to be lowered and shortened.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Hot
Spots
Making adjustments to your dog’s
daily care and environment can significantly decrease hot spot recurrence and
improve skin health long term:
Controlling Moisture and
Humidity
- Brush coat regularly to remove
dirt and distribute oils evenly
- Clip long fur around feet,
ears, belly, armpits, groin where moisture collects
- Bathe only when necessary using
gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo
- Thoroughly dry coat after
swimming or baths paying special attention to skin folds
- Use cool air from a blow dryer
after towel drying to fully dry coat
- Avoid exposing your dog to
humidity and dampness outside
- Consider using a dehumidifier
in your home during humid months
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
- Provide a predictable routine
and schedule each day
- Ensure your dog gets adequate,
regular exercise
- Incorporate playtime,
interactive toys and training activities
- Try calming supplements like
melatonin, hemp, valerian
- Use an Adaptil pheromone collar
or diffuser
- Consider anti-anxiety
medication if stress is severe
Tick and Flea Prevention
- Use veterinary approved topical
tick/flea preventives monthly
- Vacuum home and launder pet
bedding frequently
- Check your dog’s coat daily and
remove any parasites
- Treat your yard and outdoor
spaces for fleas and ticks
- Keep grass mowed short since
ticks thrive in high brush
Improving Overall Diet and Nutrition
- Feed a high quality commercial
or homemade diet
- Incorporate fatty acid
supplements
- Ensure your dog always has
access to fresh water
- Work closely with your vet to
identify food triggers
- Address any nutritional
deficiencies with supplements
Lifestyle adjustments to promote
healthy skin go hand in hand with treating the visible hot spots. Preventing
recurrence involves identifying and managing the underlying cause while
optimizing your dog’s environment and care.
Treating Secondary Skin Infections
Left untreated, hot spots often
become colonized with pathogenic bacteria and yeast leading to secondary
infections which complicate treatment and resolution. Catching these infections
early is key to restoring skin health.
Signs of Skin Infection
Indicators that the hot spot has
become further infected include:
- Expansion of redness, swelling
and inflammation
- Increased pain at the site
- Development of pustules and
abscesses
- Purulent, foul-smelling
discharge
- Oozing that becomes thick and
opaque
- Crusting and scabbing with
extensive hair loss
- Formation of ulcers with loss
of multiple skin layers
Rapid worsening of the lesion
along with these symptoms signifies a bacterial or fungal infection has taken
hold. immediate veterinary care is needed.
Obtaining a Sample for Testing
To identify the type of infection
present, your vet will collect samples of the discharge and affected skin cells
for cytology and cultures. Common modalities used include:
- Impression smears - Pressing a
glass slide against oozing skin to collect microbes
- Swabbing - Rubbing a sterile
cotton swab over the lesion to gather a culture
- Skin scraping - Using a scalpel
blade to collect skin cells for microscopy
- Biopsy - Surgically removing a
small section of skin for staining
Cytology and culture analysis in
the lab determines the microbial species present and their antibiotic
susceptibility to target treatment most effectively.
Common Oral Antibiotics Prescribed
Based on cytology results, the
veterinarian will select an appropriate oral antibiotic to resolve the
secondary infection. Cephalexin, clindamycin, trimethoprim-sulfa and
doxycycline are examples of common oral antibiotics prescribed for infected hot
spots.
Dosage is calculated based on the
dog’s weight and may need to be given for several weeks. Monitor the lesion for
any changes while antibiotic therapy is underway. Alert your vet to any
concerns.
Topical Antibiotics and Antifungals
Mupirocin, miconazole and
ketoconazole are topical ointments frequently dispensed to treat yeast and
fungal overgrowth on hot spots. Silver sulfadiazine cream also has broad
spectrum antibacterial effects for skin infections.
Direct application allows high
concentrations to penetrate the infection while minimizing any systemic
effects. Combining oral and topical therapy provides comprehensive treatment.
Keeping the Area Clean
Regardless of medications given,
gently cleaning the infected hot spot 2-3 times per day using dilute
chlorhexidine or antisepticwash is imperative. This removes debris and
discharge that interferes with healing.
Hair surrounding the lesion may
need to be clipped if matted or contaminated. Allow the site to air dry after
cleansing. Use an e-collar if your dog continues to lick or bite at the area.
Consistent cleaning paired with
appropriate medications helps resolve these frustrating secondary skin
infections more quickly.
When to See a Veterinarian
It is always a good idea to have
your veterinarian evaluate any new hot spot on your dog to ensure appropriate
treatment. However, certain situations require urgent veterinary attention to
avoid complications.
Lack of Improvement
If the hot spot is not showing
signs of drying up and shrinking in size after 2-3 days of home treatment,
veterinary assessment is warranted. The sooner more aggressive medication
therapy can be initiated, the lower the likelihood of the lesion worsening.
Enlarging or New Sores
Rapid expansion of the original
hot spot or appearance of additional lesions indicates the skin condition is
advancing despite initial efforts to treat it. Prompt intervention can halt
progression.
Worsening Symptoms
If the sore seems to be becoming
increasingly inflamed and painful despite your treatment attempts, infection is
likely taking hold. Seeing the veterinarian promptly helps prevent a minor
problem from becoming major.
Signs of Infection
Purulent discharge, foul odor,
extensive crusting or ulceration signify secondary infections have set in. Your
dog needs prescription oral and topical antibiotics and antifungals to gain
control of the pathogenic microbes colonizing the skin.
Excessive Licking and Chewing
If the dog continues to
compulsively lick, scratch and bite at the hot spot preventing it from healing,
medication may be needed to curb this instinctive trauma. Anti-anxiety drugs,
e-collars and bitter tasting topicals can dissuade this behavior.
Frequent Recurrence
Dogs plagued by frequent episodes
of acute moist dermatitis need differentiation of the underlying trigger.
Allergy testing, skin scrapings and medication trials may be needed to prevent
repeated hot spots.
Do not allow the sore to worsen
needlessly when a simple veterinary exam and treatment may quickly resolve the
problem. Trust your instincts if your dog seems to be in misery or the lesion
appears to be deteriorating. Prompt intervention prevents complications down
the road.
Preventing Hot Spots from Recurring
Managing episodic hot spots on
your dog can be frustrating for both owners and pets alike. While it is
imperative to resolve the current problem, preventing recurrence is equally
important for your dog’s future comfort and wellbeing.
Allergy Testing and
Hyposensitization
For dogs with environmental
allergies contributing to repeated hot spots, specialized skin testing can
identify specific allergens to target with desensitization injections
(allergen-specific immunotherapy). This helps reprogram the immune system's
hypersensitivity over time. Food allergy testing is also available. Avoiding
triggers is key.
Medicated Shampoos and Conditioners
Your veterinarian may recommend
regular bathing with prescription shampoos like Allercain, Malaseb or Sulfodene
which have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties to
improve skin health. Conditioners further hydrate the coat. Follow directions
closely.
Regular Grooming and Fur Trimming
Keeping the coat free of mats and
debris while clipping hair around the feet, ears, belly and folds prevents
moisture accumulation and skin issues. Removing undercoat helps air circulate
to keep skin drier.
Moisturizing Skin Creams
For dry, flaky skin predisposing
dogs to lesions, daily application of moisturizing creams containing colloidal
oatmeal, ceramides, and vitamins C and E helps restore epidermal barrier
function. This protects against inflammation and infection.
Stress and Anxiety Reduction
Medication, pheromones, routines
and enrichment all help nervous, high-strung dogs prone to acral lick
dermatitis. Preventing self-trauma from compulsive licking and chewing is
imperative. Acupuncture can also balance energy flow.
A multifaceted approach works
best for reducing hot spot recurrence. Identify and manage the original
inciting cause, optimize your dog’s skin health daily, and employ both
conventional and natural treatments as needed. With some diligence by owners,
hot spots can usually be well controlled.
Conclusion
Hot spots represent a very common
skin complaint among our canine companions causing miserable discomfort. Though
they appear suddenly, hot spots develop in response to an underlying irritation
or skin condition that provokes the dog to traumatize the area by licking,
chewing and scratching. This allows normal microbial flora to rapidly
infiltrate and expand into a painful, oozing skin lesion.
While our first impulse is to
treat the visible skin wound, holistic approaches also encourage determining
and addressing the initial source of irritation or itchiness. Dogs plagued by
allergies, moisture against the skin, parasites, anxiety, stress or an existing
skin disorder are prime candidates for acute moist dermatitis. Conventional
medicines and natural remedies can be combined to provide immediate relief of
hot spots while pursuing long term prevention.
By recognizing common causes,
symptoms, and risk factors, dog owners can identify hot spots early and be
prepared to partner with their veterinarian to resolve the problem. Ongoing
management using gentle skin care, nutritional support and lifestyle adjustments
reduces recurrence of this frustrating condition. With patience and
perseverance, hot spots can be overcome for a happier, healthier dog. 🐶
FAQs About Hot Spots on Dogs
What does a hot spot look like when
it first starts?
A hot spot begins as a localized
area of red, moist, irritated skin that your dog excessively licks or
scratches. It may only be the size of a dime when first noticed but expands
rapidly if not treated. The area will become increasingly inflamed and may leak
serum.
What home remedy is most effective
for hot spots on dogs?
Diluted apple cider vinegar
applied to the affected area several times a day is very helpful for hot spots.
It helps restore normal pH, inhibits bacterial and fungal overgrowth, reduces
inflammation, dries out the lesion and prevents expansion of the sore.
Can I put Neosporin on my dog’s hot
spot?
Plain Neosporin (not the formula
with pain relief medication) is generally safe to apply to hot spots but
contains petroleum jelly which can cause irritation. Check with your vet first.
Monitor the skin for any adverse reaction. Topicals must be prevented from
being licked off.
Should I shave the hair around my
dog's hot spot?
Shaving the hair too closely can
further irritate the skin. Instead, carefully clip the hair about 2 inches out
from the margins of the hot spot using blunt tipped scissors. This removes
contaminated hair and allows you to closely monitor the lesion while permitting
air circulation.
What helps drain a hot spot on a
dog?
Hot spots filled with pus may
need the veterinarian to lance and drain accumulated fluid. Warm compresses can
help encourage drainage at home. Avoid squeezing as this can further damage
skin. Keeping the area shaved, clean and dry will allow it to naturally drain
while healing.
Can I put anything on my dog's hot
spot to make it feel better?
Do not apply anything to a hot
spot without consulting your veterinarian. Even natural remedies can cause a
reaction in broken skin. Medicated shampoos and antibiotic ointments promote
healing. Alternatively, a cool compress with chamomile tea may provide relief.
Avoid salves that are oil based.
Are hot spots contagious between
dogs?
No, hot spots themselves are not
contagious to other pets. However, the underlying allergies, parasites or skin
infections causing them can be transmitted between dogs. It is advisable to
keep dogs with active hot spots separate from other pets in the household.
Can hot spots recur in the same
spot?
Yes, recurrent hot spots are
common if the original inciting cause was not resolved. Allergies, moisture,
stress or skin disorders may result in repetitive hot spots in the same areas.
It’s important to determine the perpetuating factor for long term prevention.
Do I need to bandage my dog's hot
spot?
Veterinarians do not recommend
bandaging or wrapping hot spots as this trap in moisture and bacteria worsening
the lesion. Leaving it open to breathe is better. Use an e-collar to prevent
your dog disturbing the healing site through licking instead.
How long does it take for a hot spot
to heal?
With appropriate treatment, most
hot spots begin to heal and dry up within 3-5 days but complete resolution can
take 1-2 weeks depending on the size and severity. Very large or infected sores
may take a month. Recurrence is common if underlying causes are not addressed.