by Jaron Lukas
What Are Dog Hot Spots?
A dog hot spot is a bacterial skin infection, also known as an acute moist dermatitis. The term “hot spot” is pretty much just something that was made up by vets to describe a certain type of bacterial skin infection, and it’s not very scientific or medical. In any case, they are pretty common. Dogs get them when they scratch themselves in the same place over and over again until their skin gets irritated and sore. It usually starts with an itchy area somewhere on your dog’s body. Your dog scratches at it until he breaks the skin, which allows bacteria from his environment to enter his body. If left untreated, the infection can spread rapidly and become extremely uncomfortable for your dog!
Hot spots can be treated with some simple home remedies (which I’ll share below), but if you want to speed up healing or if your dog has other health issues (like diabetes), you should see a veterinarian for treatment. Also, because hot spots are contagious, it's important to make sure that no other dogs will be exposed to them while they are still contagious!
Why Does My Dog Get Hot Spots?
A hot spot is an area of skin that has become irritated and infected through scratching, licking, or biting. This can occur due to allergies, fleas and other parasites, poor grooming habits, or chronic skin conditions like yeast infections. Often the pets that experience hot spots have thick hair coats; however, it is a misconception to think your pet is not susceptible if they do not have a double coat. It is especially important during summer months to keep your pet's coat clipped short and clean so that moisture does not accumulate between skin folds.
How to Treat Dog Hot Spots
Treatment for hot spots is twofold, and it's important to contact a veterinarian before treating your dog at home. Your first step should be to call your vet or local animal hospital and set up an appointment. They will likely prescribe oral antibiotics or a topical antibiotic spray to treat the infection, so that the underlying cause of the hot spot (bacteria) can be eradicated.
In addition to these prescription medicines, home remedies can help speed healing, prevent further damage to your pet's skin, and relieve pain. Some popular home remedies include:
Coconut oil (applied topically)
Aloe vera gel (applied topically)
Colloidal silver (sprayed on the area)
What About Dog Hot Spot Home Remedies?
You should never treat your dog’s hot spot at home without first consulting your veterinarian. A vet can tell you if a hot spot is severe enough to require medication, or if using a home remedy like coconut oil would be effective instead. They can also help you determine the cause of the hot spot and offer tips on how to prevent future outbreaks, preventing stress and discomfort for both you and your dog.
Coconut Oil for Dogs Can Help Prevent Hot Spots Too
Coconut oil is incredibly effective for preventing hot spots and other skin conditions in dogs. As outlined above, coconut oil can help reduce itchiness caused by hot spots, it is a natural flea repellent to prevent them from occurring in the first place, and its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties fight and reduce any existing ones.
Like mentioned above in the section 'Using Coconut Oil To Treat Hot Spots In Dogs', one of the best ways to use coconut oil to prevent hot spots is simply by applying it generously over your dog's coat - particularly on their neck and back as these are the most common areas where hot spots develop.
If your dog has a hot spot, you can treat it with coconut oil.
Coconut oil has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which make it an excellent choice for cleaning and treating dog hot spots. It also helps moisturize the skin to help the area heal faster. Apply a generous amount of coconut oil to the area at least 3 times daily, or as needed. It is safe to lather your dog in coconut oil if you are unable to isolate only the infected areas. Coconut oil can also be applied topically to any other cuts or wounds that your dog may have. It's best added directly to food as well, as this will help coat their GI tract and boost their immune system from within!
Other natural remedies that can be used on hot spots include:
Apple cider vinegar (dilute one part vinegar with 4 parts water)
Baking soda (make a paste with water)
Honey (use raw honey when possible)
Note: If your dog’s hot spot does not heal after 2 weeks, bring him in for an examination. Some dogs may need antibiotics due to secondary infections and allergies that contribute to their skin issues.
