Hot Spots in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What are hot spots in dogs?

Hot spots are localised bacterial skin infections, also known as acute moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis.

• They usually appear suddenly as moist, inflamed, and painful areas of skin
• Commonly triggered by biting, licking, or scratching at an itchy spot
• Can spread quickly and may be larger than they first appear once the hair is clipped away
• Often linked to allergies, parasites, ear or anal gland issues
• More common in summer months, or in hot and humid environments

Common causes include:

• Fleas and flea allergy dermatitis
• Food or environmental allergies
• Ear disease
• Anal gland disease
• Wounds, insect bites, or trauma
• Matted fur that traps heat and moisture
• Stress, pain, or boredom leading to over-grooming

Untreated hot spots can rapidly worsen and become very painful. Always consult a vet if you suspect your dog has one.

Symptoms of hot spots

Hot spots commonly affect the head, neck, chest, or hips, but they can appear anywhere.

Typical signs include:

• Red, inflamed skin that feels warm
• Moist, oozing, or weeping patches
• A foul smell from the affected area
• Localised hair loss
• Swelling and sensitivity to touch
• Constant licking, biting, or scratching at one spot

Other signs may include:

• Lethargy or restlessness from discomfort
• Reduced appetite if pain is significant

In Dubai, factors like long-haired coats, limited indoor cooling, or frequent swimming can make hot spots worse. Dogs that are not dried properly after swimming or bathing are especially at risk.

Dogs at more risk of hot spots

Any dog can develop a hot spot, but certain factors increase the risk:

• Breeds prone to allergies: Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs, Spaniels, Poodles, Westies
• Dogs with ear or anal gland problems: Cavaliers, Cocker Spaniels, Retrievers, Pugs
• Long-haired or thick-coated breeds: Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, German Shepherds
• Overweight dogs: skin folds trap moisture and heat
• Dogs that swim often: moisture trapped in fur, especially if not dried properly
• Hot, humid climates: heat and humidity can accelerate skin irritation

How vets diagnose hot spots

Most hot spots can be diagnosed by their typical appearance. However, if the infection keeps coming back or isn’t healing, your vet may recommend further tests:

• Skin swabs, scrapes, or biopsies to rule out mites, fungi, or resistant bacteria
• Ear swabs and flushes, if linked to ear disease
• Blood or urine tests to check for underlying illness
• Allergy testing or strict food trials if allergies are suspected
• Imaging: X-rays if pain or joint issues may be triggering over-grooming

Vet treatment for hot spots

Treatment depends on severity, but usually includes:

• Clipping the fur around the lesion to expose the full area
• Cleaning the skin with an antiseptic solution
• Prescription medications: antibiotics, anti-itch medication (such as steroids), antifungals, if yeast is involved, and pain relief
• Parasite treatment: fleas, mites, ticks

Your vet will advise sedation for clipping and cleaning if the area is painful to handle.

Home care for a dog with a hot spot

Your vet will guide you on the best products, but you can support recovery by:

• Using a buster (cone) collar to prevent trauma from licking or scratching
• Keeping the area clean and dry
• Following advice on medicated shampoos, mousses, or creams
• Feeding supplements rich in omega oils to support skin health
• Trialling a strict allergy diet if recommended
• Keeping up with vet-approved parasite prevention for all pets in the household

Tips to prevent hot spots in dogs

• Maintain year-round parasite control for fleas, mites, and ticks
• Wash bedding, collars, and bowls regularly
• Brush your dog’s coat at least once a week to prevent matting
• Ensure that dogs that swim are thoroughly dried afterwards
• Feed a high-quality diet, and consider a skin-support formula with omega oils
• Keep your dog at a healthy weight: overweight dogs are more prone to skin infections
• Avoid prolonged exposure to high heat and humidity, and provide access to cool indoor spaces

Can people or other animals catch hot spots?

Hot spots themselves are not contagious to humans. Most causes, such as allergies, are not transmissible. Rarely, underlying conditions like mange or ringworm could be spread to people or other pets. Talk to your doctor or vet if you are concerned.

When to worry

See your vet if:

• Your dog is extremely itchy or uncomfortable
• The hot spot is spreading or not healing with treatment
• You are unsure what is causing your dog’s skin problems

Early treatment prevents complications and ensures your dog stays comfortable.

Worried your dog may have a hot spot? Book a check-up or same-day appointment at Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai. Their experienced team can diagnose and treat skin infections quickly, helping relieve your dog’s discomfort and prevent the problem from spreading. From routine skin care advice to urgent treatment, Modern Vet Hospital offers compassionate, professional veterinary care tailored to your dog’s needs.