Jan 27 2009
Hot Spots in Dogs
Hot spots are more common in dogs with thicker undercoats in which dampness can accumulate, but can occur in any dog. If you notice a localized area of your dog’s skin which is inflammed and itchy, and the hair around it is looking moist, it’s possible this is a hot spot. I would keep this area clean of hair and debris, disinfected, and less itchy/ spreadable.
If you need to, clip a bit of hair nearby so it doesn’t fall into this area.
I’d gently clean the spot with a betadine (iodine) diluted 1 part to 10 parts warm water. Gently dab dry. If you can get a topical antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream (they do sell some OTC in human pharmacies), this can be applied, just a thin layer. A topical antibiotic cream, like Neosporin, is ok for infected sores and warding off bacterial infections, but does nothing for the itch of the spot nor the inflammatory process and histamine release, which is what causes these.
Many people also choose to give some oral diphenhydramine (benadryl) at a dose of 1mg per pound of body weight, which can be rounded slightly up or down for easier dosing, but it may cause some drowsiness in sensitive dogs, though no need to worry if it does. It can be repeated every 12 hours. Only give to otherwise healthy dogs with no medication problems in the past.
Allergies are a common reason for hot spots to occur, and the moisture build up on skin is what eventually causes this spot that turns itchy and inflamed.
You will want to do your best to keep your dog in a drier area, and a t-shirt or e-collar may be needed to prevent them further self-irritating this spot while it’s healing.
Christine, LVT
