Why do Dogs get Hot Spots? Common Causes and How to Help

If you’ve ever noticed your dog obsessively licking or chewing at a red, irritated patch of skin, you might be dealing with a hot spot. At Partners Animal Hospital Asheville, we see them more often than you’d think—especially in warmer months or after a trip to the groomer or river.

Hot spots can pop up fast and get worse even faster. The good news? With the right treatment (and a little detective work), they’re very manageable.

What Is a Hot Spot?

Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are inflamed, infected areas on your dog’s skin. They usually start as a small area of irritation but can quickly grow as your dog continues to lick, chew, or scratch at the spot.

You might notice:

• Red, moist, raw-looking skin
  
• Hair loss around the area
  
• Swelling or oozing
  
• An unpleasant odor
  
• Your dog constantly licking or biting at it
  

They’re painful and itchy—and understandably frustrating for both pets and their people.

What Causes Them?

Hot spots don’t just happen out of the blue. They’re usually triggered by something that causes your dog to itch or feel uncomfortable, such as:

• Flea allergies or bug bites
  
• Moisture trapped in the coat (after swimming, bathing, or rain)
  
• Underlying skin allergies
  
• Ear infections (especially in floppy-eared breeds)
  
• Matted fur or poor grooming
  
• Stress, anxiety, or boredom (leading to excessive licking)
  

Once the cycle of licking and irritation starts, it doesn’t take long for bacteria to take hold and turn a small issue into an infected sore. 

How We Treat Hot Spots

Every dog (and every hot spot) is a little different, but treatment often includes:

• Clipping the fur around the area to help it dry and heal
  
• Topical medication or sprays to soothe inflammation and fight infection
  
• Oral antibiotics or steroids if the spot is severe
  
• An e-collar to prevent licking while the skin heals
  

We’ll also talk with you about what likely triggered the hot spot so we can work on preventing future flare-ups.

Prevention Tips for Hot Spot-Prone Dogs

If your dog is prone to skin issues or has had hot spots before, here are a few things that can help:

• Keep up with flea prevention year-round
  
• Dry your dog thoroughly after swimming or baths
  
• Schedule regular grooming to prevent matting
  
• Watch for signs of allergies, like frequent scratching or ear infections
  
• Make sure your dog has plenty of mental stimulation to avoid anxiety-driven licking
  

And of course—don’t hesitate to reach out if you notice skin changes. The sooner we treat a hot spot, the better.

Need Help Soothing Your Dog’s Skin?

If your dog has a hot spot or keeps licking one area of their body, we’re here to help them feel more comfortable fast.

Book a visit with us today