Veterinarians teach you how to treat hot spots on dogs naturally

Is your dog suddenly chewing a red, moist patch of skin like it’s on fire? Chances are, you're dealing with a hot spot—a painful, itchy skin condition that can spread fast if left untreated. The good news? With the right care, most hot spots can heal quickly and completely.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what hot spots look like, what causes them, how to treat them at home, and how to prevent them from coming back. Plus, discover vet-approved natural remedies that actually work.

 What Are Hot Spots?

Hot spots—also known as acute moist dermatitis—are inflamed, infected skin lesions that often appear suddenly and worsen rapidly. They’re most common in breeds with thick coats (like Golden Retrievers, Labs, and German Shepherds) but can affect any dog.

Common Symptoms:

• Red, raw-looking patches

• Moist, oozing skin with possible crusting

• Foul odor

• Hair loss around the area

• Constant licking, chewing, or scratching

What Causes Hot Spots on Dogs?

Hot spots are usually a result of a dog’s intense licking or scratching due to an underlying trigger:

• Flea or tick bites

• Food or environmental allergies

• Ear infections (common with hot spots around the head/neck)

• Matted fur or poor grooming

• Stress, boredom, or separation anxiety

Once the skin is broken, bacteria (usually Staphylococcus) takes advantage, leading to rapid infection and inflammation.

 Step-by-Step Treatment Plan

Step 1: Trim the Hair

Carefully trim the fur around the hot spot to let air in and reduce moisture. Use pet-safe clippers, or visit your vet/groomer if the area is large.

Step 2: Clean the Area

Use a gentle antiseptic solution or a natural, vet-approved shampoo.

 Recommended: Puainta® Banov Skin Shampoo – Natural cleansing for inflamed skin.

Step 3: Apply Soothing, Anti-Itch Treatment

Try:

• Puainta® Quantum Silver Anti-itch Spray – Targets bacteria, reduces itch without steroids.

• Puainta® Natural Hot Spot Spray – Herbal formula to reduce redness and swelling.

Step 4: Prevent Licking & Scratching

• Use an e-collar or soft recovery cone.

• Consider bitter-tasting deterrent sprays.

Step 5: Treat the Root Cause

• Address fleas with Puainta® Flea & Tick Collar

• Try an elimination diet to identify food allergies

• Use calming aids if your dog licks out of anxiety

Before & After: Real Healing Timeline

When to Call the Vet

• Hot spot is rapidly spreading

• Dog has a fever, lethargy, or signs of deeper infection

• Home care isn’t improving after 2–3 days

• You suspect chronic allergy or internal issue

FAQs About Hot Spots on Dogs

Q: Are hot spots contagious to other dogs or humans?
A: No, but the underlying cause (like fleas) can affect others.

Q: Can I put Neosporin or other human creams on a dog’s hot spot?
A: No. Many human products contain ingredients toxic to dogs.

Q: Will it heal on its own?
A: Rarely. Most hot spots worsen without proper treatment.

Q: Can hot spots come back?
A: Yes—especially if the root cause (like allergies or stress) isn’t addressed.

Vet-Approved Products to Treat Hot Spots Naturally

Your dog doesn’t have to suffer. Hot spots can be treated—and prevented—with the right care, naturally.

⇒Shop All Natural Skin Care for Dogs

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment guidance.