How to Treat Hot Spots on Your Dog

Hot spots can cause your dog pain and an infection if not treated quickly and properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sulfadene
• Shaver

1. BE WATCHFUL
   
   A hot spot will usually start out the size of a quarter. Many times there will be a foul smell and perhaps even puss on them. The dog may lick or chew at the hot spots. If you have a breed prone to hot spots, be extra vigilant in watching for them. Newfoundlands, St. Bernards, Shar-Pei dogs with allergies, white dogs...

2. EARLY TREATMENT
   
   If caught early, apply sulfadene to the hot spots. Sulfadene is a product that you can often find in pet supply stores near the shampoos.

3. SHAVE IF NECESSARY
   
   Sometimes it may be necessary to shave the dog's hair off the hot spot area to enable more effective treatment and cleanliness.

4. HAVE DOG VETTED IF IT WORSENS
   
   If the hot spot worsens or you did not catch it early, a vet will need to see the dog as the hot spot could turn into a full blown infection causing your dog a fever as well. Antibiotics will need to be prescribed.

5. FIND THE CAUSE
   
   Sometimes hot spots are caused by allergies, improper drying of a heavy coat among other reasons. Have your veterinarian help you discover the cause so you can prevent future hot spots if at all possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Hot spots are more prevalent in the summertime

Resources

• Our Coonhound Kennel

[berry2009]

on 9/25/2009 Great post on dog hot spots I have learned something from this keep the great work up.

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[AuntPhyl]

on 5/20/2008 Thanks for the tips! It helps knowing when to self-treat and when to see the vet.

[amylaine]

on 5/19/2008 Interesting, great article.