What it is
A hot spot starts with an itch. The dog licks, chews or scratches, the skin breaks, and the moisture and warmth under the fur let bacteria thrive. That makes the patch sorer and itchier, the dog works at it harder, and within hours a small irritation can become a raw, weeping patch the size of a palm.
Something always sets it off: fleas, an allergy, an ear infection, a scrape, or a dense coat that stays damp after a swim or a bath. A thick coat and warm, humid weather make the conditions easier.
The patch hurts, so your dog may not want it touched and may be grumpy about being handled there. A coat that is kept brushed and dried well after it gets wet leaves less room for the damp warmth hot spots like. Because there is always a trigger behind them, a hot spot that keeps coming back is worth looking into.
Signs you may notice
- Licking or scratching one spot
- Damp, matted or missing fur
- Red, moist patch of skin
- Warm and tender to the touch
- Unpleasant smell from the patch
You may notice the dog going back again and again to lick or scratch one spot, where the fur is matted, damp or missing even though everything looked fine the day before. The patch may feel warm and be tender to the touch.
When to see a vet
Book a visit promptly once you spot a hot spot: it can spread fast, and a vet should decide what to do and look for the trigger behind it. If it is large or very painful, or the dog seems unwell, go the same day.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.