What causes hot spots on dogs?

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites are common culprits behind hot spots on dogs. When these pests bite a dog’s skin, they inject saliva that can cause intense itching and allergic reactions in sensitive animals. One flea bite can trigger days of scratching and licking, especially for a dog with flea allergy dermatitis. This creates the perfect conditions for hot spot development. Regular parasite prevention is crucial, as even dogs that spend limited time outdoors can pick up these irritating pests.

Genetic makeup is a common cause of hot spots on dogs and other dermatological conditions. Some dogs inherit skin that’s more sensitive or has a compromised barrier function. This makes them more prone to irritation and infection. Additionally, dogs with inherited allergic tendencies often experience more frequent and severe hot spots. This is because their immune systems overreact to common environmental triggers.

• Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers: These popular breeds have dense, water-loving coats that retain moisture and are genetically predisposed to skin allergies, creating a perfect storm for hot spot development.
• German Shepherds: Their thick double coats and tendency toward allergic skin conditions make them susceptible to hot spots, particularly around their hips and tail area.
• St. Bernards and Bernese Mountain Dogs: These large, heavy-coated breeds often develop hot spots in skin folds and areas where moisture becomes trapped after activities or in humid weather.
• Rottweilers: This breed has a natural tendency towards allergic skin disease. They also have short but dense coats, which makes them prone to hot spots, especially during seasonal changes.
• Cocker Spaniels: Their long, floppy ears create warm, moist environments perfect for bacterial growth, and their predisposition to ear infections often leads to hot spots from scratching.
• English Bulldogs and other brachycephalic breeds: Their numerous skin folds trap moisture and bacteria, creating multiple potential sites for development, particularly around facial wrinkles.

Bacterial infections are both a cause and a complication of hot spots on dogs. While healthy dog skin has a natural population of bacteria, disruptions to the skin barrier allow these bacteria to multiply and cause infection. Once established, the bacterial infection causes increased itching and discomfort. This prompts more licking and scratching that perpetuates the cycle and allows the infection to spread.

Your environment can increase or limit the development of hot spots on dogs. High humidity and warm temperatures during the summer months create the perfect conditions for bacterial growth. Swimming in lakes, pools, or oceans, followed by inadequate drying can trap moisture in the coat and lead to hot spots in dogs.

Additionally, exposure to irritating substances like lawn chemicals, household cleaners, or certain plants can damage the skin barrier and initiate the hot spot process. Seasonal allergies can further heighten the risk through increased scratching behavior.

When a dog consumes an allergen, their immune system launches an inflammatory response that can manifest in the skin. This can lead to itching, redness, and eventually hot spots. Unlike seasonal allergies, food allergies cause year-round symptoms and may worsen gradually as the immune system becomes sensitized.

What Foods Cause Hot Spots on Dogs

• Protein sources: Beef, chicken, lamb, and dairy products are common protein allergens that can trigger inflammatory skin responses in sensitive dogs, potentially leading to hot spots.
• Grains and carbohydrates: Wheat, corn, and soy are frequently implicated in food sensitivities and may contribute to skin inflammation and itching.
• Food additives and preservatives: Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives can increase a dog’s overall allergic burden and skin reactivity.
• Novel proteins: Surprisingly, exotic proteins like venison or duck can eventually become allergens if the dog develops a sensitivity over time with repeated exposure.
• High-glycemic ingredients: Foods that cause rapid blood sugar spikes may contribute to inflammation throughout the body, potentially exacerbating skin conditions in predisposed dogs.

Professional veterinary assessment is the crucial first step in treating hot spots on dogs. A veterinarian will evaluate the severity of the hot spot, identify any underlying causes like ear infections or parasites. They also rule out other conditions that might mimic hot spots, such as ringworm or immune-mediated skin diseases. During this examination, the vet will likely take samples for cytology to identify the specific bacteria involved, which helps determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.

The treatment process typically begins with carefully clipping hair around and over the hot spot to improve air circulation and allow topical treatments to reach the affected skin. This clipping usually extends about one inch beyond the visible margins of the hot spot to ensure all affected areas are exposed. After clipping, the veterinarian gently cleanses the area with an antiseptic solution. This removes debris and surface bacteria that would otherwise continue to irritate the skin and delay healing.

Topical medications are crucial for hot spot treatment as they directly target the affected area. Veterinarians often prescribe antimicrobial sprays, creams, or ointments containing ingredients like hydrocortisone, antibiotics, or antifungals. These treatments reduce inflammation, fight infection, and prevent itching and pain. Some topical preparations also contain ingredients that dry the area, helping to create a less hospitable environment for bacteria to thrive.

Oral systemic medications often complement topical treatments, especially for larger or more severe cases. Antibiotics are prescribed when a bacterial infection extends beyond the surface. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, may be prescribed for short-term use to reduce inflammation and itching, providing relief and breaking the itch-scratch cycle. In cases where allergies are the underlying cause, antihistamines or other allergy medications might be recommended as part of the treatment protocol and ongoing management.

Preventing recurrence involves addressing the underlying causes of hot spots and implementing protective strategies. Regular grooming with attention to areas prone to moisture retention helps keep the coat clean and dry.

Proper parasite control prevents flea and tick infestations that often trigger hot spots. For dogs with identified food sensitivities, maintaining a strict appropriate diet prevents allergic reactions, and those with environmental allergies may benefit from medications during high-risk seasons.