The Cause Of Dog Hot Spots Can Be Difficult To Determine

When a dog looses hair in a certain areas of its body it can be a sign of an infection called dog hot spots. Sometimes you may see that the area can be wet as well as have minimal hair on it. The infection is often caused by a bacterium that is in the dog's environment.

The bacteria will grow in certain conditions. If you have been neglecting the grooming of your dog you may find that the bacteria have been growing on him. Some allergies and behavioral issues can cause this infection to develop.

It is common for healthy dogs to experience skin irritation at the beginning of an infection. There may be many reasons for this such as being allergic to parasites or food, environmental changes, matted fur that results in concentration of moisture or dirt, etc. Continued licking or scratching of certain body parts due to the presence of allergens, boredom or sometimes behavioral problems may also result in the condition. A skin irritation can be the result of allergies caused by parasites or it may again be due to food. Even dogs with good immunity can fall prey to this problem.

When infections are involved and you are unable to ascertain the problem, you will require supervision from a veterinarian. At times they will suggest clipping around the area that is affected and washing with a gentle cleanser or antiseptic solution. If the area is caused by constant licking or scratching, an e-collar may be recommended until the area heals.

However, it is recommended to try to treat the cause of the condition as well, not just the condition itself. Trying to determine the cause is the only way to stop this problem for good. Irritating skin conditions can be onset by boredom, anxiety and other behavioural issues.

In case the condition is caused by poor grooming, then more frequent grooming sessions with more care will be required. It is necessary to remove all matted portions from the dog's fur more regularly. Two times a week or even more may be necessary so as to prevent skin infections. The matted portions can be cut off and removed to disentangle the hair. Services of a professional groomer may be sought in case the owner is not in a position to provide sufficient attention.

When you come across the problem of dog hot spots, it is important to look for the underlying cause and the issue is more complicated than a simple skin infection. Getting correct treatment is important, thus the need to speak to your vet as they have a vast experience in what can cause these problems.

When it comes to dog hot spots regular exercise is necessary. Plenty of play things to keep them busy and healthy can be a huge help to prevent boredom. Along with this, regular grooming and observation of your pet is needed.