Hot Spot Skin Conditions on Dogs

Hot spots, with a clinical name of acute moist dermatitis, are a skin condition that occurs in dogs and usually begins as an allergic reaction that then becomes an infection. Hot spots occur most often in dogs with long hair or thick coats. They can be identified by a raw patch in the dog's coat that dogs will often lick and gnaw at. Though they can be painful and uncomfortable for dogs, they are not dangerous and will go away with proper treatment.

Causes
- Many hot spots stem from an allergic reaction such as an insect bite, especially a flea bite. Other allergies such inhalant allergies and food allergies can also cause a hot spot breakout. In some cases, ear infections, poor grooming, burs, hip dysplasia or arthritis, or anal gland disease may cause a hot spot.
Identification
- Hot spots are usually found on the head, hip or side of the chest and are more common in dogs with thick coats. The lesions are circular and can vary in size. They will be free of hair and the skin will be raw in this area. Breakouts tend to occur more in warmer weather than in the winter. Because they irritate dogs, a dog will often lick or gnaw at a hot spot, causing it to grow far larger in a short amount of time.
Treatment
- Hair should be clipped around the area of the hot spot to help stop the spread of the infection. An antiseptic solution or an antibiotic powder should be applied to the area to treat the infection. A cortisone powder can also be used to reduce the itching and inflammation. If the hot spot continues to grow in size, and if the dog continues to gnaw at the area, visit your veterinarian, who may prescribe an oral antibiotic.
Prevention
- Dogs that are prone to hot spots may suffer from several outbreaks during their life. Regular grooming may help reduce hot spot outbreaks. Keep fur combed and always dry the dog's coat after bathing or swimming. Use a flea preventative, especially during warmer months to reduce your dog's exposure to insect bites.