What Are Dog Hot Spots And How To Treat Them

An abnormal area of the body that loses fur, and perhaps leaks a fluid or becomes dry and patchy might indicate that your dog has dog hot spots. These skin lesions result from bacterial infestation of the area, but usually require some type of environmental cause that allows the bacteria to get a foothold. The technical term for these lesions is pyotraumatic dermatitis, and the underlying cause can be related to poor grooming, allergies, or behavioral issues.

A dog with a normal immune system does not develop spontaneous skin infections. Some kind of underlying cause is responsible for the development of these lesions in otherwise healthy animals. This underlying cause can be as simple as moisture buildup behind a mat of fur, or as complicated as self-mutilation due to excessive licking, brought on by an unknown mental issue.

If your dog exhibits signs of this problem, take them to the veterinarian. The vet will probably suggest that the fur around the area be clipped short, and that the infected skin be gently washed and dried on a regular basis with an antiseptic solution. If the problem was caused behaviorally (via excessive licking or scratching), an e-collar might be indicated until it heals.

The issue behind the skin infection must be addressed if the problem is to be completely resolved. Treating the infection itself is important, but will not prevent the recurrence of the same issue. Successfully treating the root of the problem can help keep it from coming back.

For dogs that have developed these issues because of improper grooming, better and more frequent grooming is indicated. Regular grooming sessions (twice a week or more) are necessary for the hygiene and health of dogs with long coats. Mats need to be removed at each grooming session, or they can result in excess moisture buildup against the skin. Clipping these mats out is sometimes necessary if they refuse to be detangled. Some owners are unable to provide their dogs with the necessary grooming needed for their health-- these owners can and should take their dog to a groomer regularly.

Unfortunately, allergies that manifest as skin irritation can be to almost anything in the household. Cleaning up any fleas and other parasites and treating the dog with an anti-parasitic medication are usually indicated, as is changing the diet to a low-allergen one and vacuuming and otherwise removing dust and pollen. Sometimes, treatment with an antihistamine medication is necessary as well.

Scratching is usually related to itchiness, but licking can sometimes be related to boredom or anxiety in dogs. These dogs will benefit from the input of a behaviorist, but generally, more exercise, more training, and more entertaining toys will be helpful in keeping the dog mentally and physically stimulated and make them less likely to self-mutilate. For anxious dogs, anti-anxiety medications may be helpful in some cases.

Dog hot spots indicate a greater problem that is manifesting as a skin infection. Clearing up the bigger issue is generally more complicated than resolving the skin infection, but is necessary in order to prevent recurrences. Getting proper treatment for underlying issues can make the difference between a happy dog and one that is miserable.

I'm a dog health guru who specializes in pet skin care.