Dog Hot Spots Prevention and Care

Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis) are painful localized skin infections in dogs that require prompt treatment and identification of underlying causes.

Key Facts

Hot spots develop rapidly - from normal skin to severely infected area within hours
They most commonly affect golden retrievers, Labradors, and thick-coated breeds
Underlying triggers include allergies, insect bites, moisture, and poor grooming
Dogs lick and chew the area compulsively, worsening the infection
Treatment requires clipping the affected area, cleaning, and topical or systemic antibiotics
Elizabethan collars prevent self-trauma during healing
Recurrent hot spots indicate an underlying cause requiring investigation
Summer heat and humidity increase hot spot incidence in susceptible dogs

Welfare Considerations

Hot spots cause significant pain and discomfort - the intense itching and burning drives dogs to self-mutilate the area, creating a vicious cycle of trauma and worsening infection. Dogs in obvious discomfort from hot spots need prompt veterinary attention. Clipping the area exposes the wound to air and removes matted fur that traps moisture - this immediate intervention provides rapid relief. The underlying cause must be addressed to prevent recurrence: allergies managed, grooming improved, and moisture-retaining fur regularly trimmed in summer. Untreated hot spots rapidly expand and deepen, causing increasing pain.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary care promptly for any rapidly developing skin lesion in dogs
Keep fur trimmed around ears, armpits, and under the tail in susceptible breeds
Use an Elizabethan collar to prevent self-trauma during hot spot healing
Investigate allergies if hot spots recur frequently
Dry dogs thoroughly after swimming or bathing to prevent moisture-related hot spots