Many dogs suffer a painful and uncomfortable condition called hot spots. Hot spots are small, scaly, lesions that appear at the surface of a dog's skin. These moist and foul-smelling sores cause a considerable amount of discomfort to dogs and often grow rapidly due to the animal licking, scratching and chewing at them while trying find relief. Any dog can be afflicted with hot spots, but this condition is most common in the longer haired canine breeds such as Collie, Samoyed and German Sheppard. There are numerous causes of hot spots in dogs.
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Insect Allergies
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Allegies to insect bites are a common cause Some dogs will experience allergic reactions to flea or tick bites. Dogs who suffer allergic reactions to fleas or ticks often develop hot spots in the bite area that can cause significant surface damage to the skin. The hot spots may appear and worsen within a considerably short amount of time, ordinarily within 12 to 48 hours of being bitten.
Ear Infections
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Excessive scratching due to ear infection may cause hot spots Many dogs who suffer from ear mites or infections are susceptible to developing hot spots. Generally, hot spots in canines can be induced by anything that irritates or itches the dog's epidermis. Dogs with ear mites or middle to inner ear infections have tendencies to excessively scratch the affected areas which can in some instances lead to the development of hot spots. Seek veterinary attention if you suspect your pet has an ear infection accompanied by hot spots near its ears.
Anal Gland Irritation
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Dogs with anal glandular hot spots may scoot across the carpet Dogs who become afflicted with anal gland irritations are also known to be susceptible to hot spots. When a dog's anal sacs become impacted it experiences a significant amount of itching and discomfort around the anus area. The dog may begin excessively licking and scratching the irritated anal areas, rubbing itself against abrasive objects, or scooting across carpets in attempts to relieve the itching. This type of canine activity often leads to hot spots at the canine anal area,
Poor Grooming and Matted Hair
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Long haired dogs are susceptible to hot spots Breeds of dogs with longer hair such as Afghan Hound or Pomeranian are also prone to developing hot spots. Long haired breeds of dogs need constant brushing and grooming to prevent their coats from becoming knotted and matted down near the skin. When the coat of a long haired dog becomes matted and tangled near the skin surface it begins pulling and tugging at the skin causing a great deal of discomfort for the animal. In attempts to relieve the itching and pulling the dog often bites and chews at the affected area which may ultimately induce hot spots.
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