What Are Hot Spots on Dogs?
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are painful, red areas of infected skin that appear to be irritated and are sometimes raised.
Hot spots on dogs can occur anywhere on the body, but they are commonly found on the face, neck, limbs or hips. The size and appearance of the lesions can vary slightly in each location, but most will look similar regardless of where they are.
These spots can appear quickly, usually with some degree of hair loss, and they become much larger in a matter of days.
Hot spots on dogs can be relatively minor and heal quickly, but they do have the potential to cause more serious issues, such as widespread infection or deeper skin ulcerations.
What Do Dog Hot Spots Look Like?
The actual hot spot lesion can range in size but is usually red, inflamed, and raw, and may bleed intermittently.
The area will become moist and painful and typically spreads due to licking, chewing, and/or scratching.
Hot spots on dogs will usually look different than other skin conditions, such as ringworm or mange, because the skin is very moist and inflamed.
Ringworm, as well as some parasitic skin infections, will have associated hair loss but are usually drier in appearance compared to hot spots.
How to Treat a Hot Spot on a Dog
While some hot spots can be treated at home, the underlying cause of the hot spot should always be identified, if possible, to prevent further hot spots from occurring.
To determine the underlying cause, and especially for large or overly infected hot spots on dogs, a veterinary exam is necessary.
It’s even more urgent if the affected area is:
You should also seek veterinary attention sooner if you cannot keep your pet from licking/scratching it.
Bandaging My Dog’s Leg | Lick Wound?
Noticed a hot spot on your dog? They’re extremely common during the warmer months, when temperatures get human and bugs are on the prowl. Don’t let hot spots cramp your summer adventures. With the right treatment and care, your dog will feel better in just a few days.