Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis) are acute and painful skin lesions caused by a dog excessively licking or scratching an irritated area of its skin. Typically, these occur due to allergic reactions, excessive moisture, or parasites, and therefore, should receive immediate veterinarian attention to prevent further spreading and/or infection.

Key takeaways

• Hot spots can double in size within just hours and feel warm, moist, and painful
• Allergies are the leading cause of hot spots, followed by trapped moisture in thick coats
• Most hot spots need veterinary care within 24-48 hours
• Treatment includes clipping fur, antibiotics, anti-itch medication, and addressing root causes
• Prevention requires managing underlying allergies and keeping skin dry

What causes hot spots?

Hot spots develop when dogs scratch or lick at irritated skin, breaking the skin barrier and allowing bacteria to multiply.

Allergies (most common cause)

• Environmental allergens (pollen, dust mites)
• Food sensitivities
• Flea allergy dermatitis

Other triggers

• Moisture trapped in coat after swimming or rain
• Ear infections causing head scratching
• Matted fur or skin injuries
• Anxiety-related excessive licking

Dogs with thick coats (such as Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds) are most susceptible.

Why hot spots are serious

• Rapid spread: Lesions can grow from dime-sized to palm-sized in 12-24 hours
• Pain cycle: Itching leads to scratching, which worsens inflammation and creates more itching
• Deep infection risk: Bacteria can penetrate deeper skin layers
• Scarring: Chronic hot spots may cause permanent hair loss

When to see a vet

Seek care within 24-48 hours if:

• Hot spot is larger than a quarter
• Area is spreading quickly
• Your dog shows pain or has multiple spots
• You notice pus, crusting, or foul odor

Since allergies cause most hot spots, ongoing management is key to prevention. Otis specializes in online veterinary allergy care - their veterinarians can diagnose hot spot triggers and create treatment plans through convenient telemedicine visits.

Treatment and prevention

Veterinary treatment typically includes:

• Clipping fur around the hot spot (1-2 inches) to expose the area to air and allow topical treatments to reach the skin
• Oral antibiotics for infection
• Anti-itch medications like Apoquel
• Medicated shampoos or topical treatments
• E-collar to prevent licking

Long-term prevention

• Manage underlying allergies with prescription medication
• Thoroughly dry your dog after water exposure
• Regular grooming to prevent mats
• Year-round flea prevention
• Fish oil supplements for skin health