Dog Allergies

Hot Spots Defined

• Hot spots are circular, hairless lesions on dogs that are intensely itchy, raw and moist. These can be very painful and are often found on the chest, hip and head areas of dogs. Hot spots often become very inflamed, and grow very quickly, due to dogs biting, scratching and licking the area. While hot spots can indeed happen to any breed of dog, dogs with dense undercoats and long hair are most often impacted.

Causes

• Flea bites may be a primary cause of hot spots. Bites from mites and other insects can also cause these lesions. According to the ASPCA, dogs who are not groomed regularly or who are groomed poorly and have dirty, matted fur are prone to hot spots. Allergies, such as to foods and laundry detergent, are another common cause of acute moist dermatitis due to the itchiness that often results. Ear and skin infections, as well as boredom and stress, can cause chewing and licking that prompts the formation of hot spots. Dogs with anal sac disease and hip dysplasia are also prone to hot spots due to licking their rear ends.

Treatment

• Pay a visit to your veterinarian to try and determine the cause of the hot spot. Minor hot spots are often treated by shaving the hair from the surrounding area and cleansing the spot with gentle antibacterial soap, lukewarm water and an antiseptic. More severe cases may need to be treated with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medications. Cone-shaped collars are used to prevent dogs from irritating the area further. If allergies are confirmed, the dog may require a change in food or hypoallergenic diet.

Prevention

• Prevent hot spots by keeping your dog properly groomed and clipping long-haired dogs short during the warm months of the year. Follow a flea-control program, most of which are quite simple and are offered through your veterinarian. Provide as stress-free an environment as possible for your dog, as well as plenty of exercise and socialization to avoid licking and chewing spurred on by boredom and anxiety.