Hot Spots on Dogs: A Raw Diet Can Help
Hot spots on dogs, also called acute moist dermatitis, are irritated patches of skin that result from an initial irritation but develop into something much worse by a bacterial infection. The most common places where hot spots on dogs form are the neck, hips, head or limbs. The red, moist patches can become very painful and cause oozing, scabbing, matted fur, and loss of fur at the affected area. While hot spots are usually localized to a specific area, treatment must focus on the underlying cause.
Why Do Dogs Get Hot Spots?
A hot spot on dogs can develop when your pup has irritated skin that becomes imbalanced or infected from repeated scratching or gnawing. Any one of the following culprits can be the initial cause of the skin irritation:
- Food Allergies
- Insect Bites
- Splinters or Thorns
- Ear Infection
- Anal Gland Infection
- Obsessive Chewing or Licking (from boredom or stress)
The warmth and humidity during the summer months can exacerbate open cuts or scrapes on long-haired dogs, especially those with matted fur. Bacteria is commonly introduced by biting, scratching and chewing the site of irritation. Bacterial growth can then cause your dog's immune system to respond with inflammation, redness, itching, heat and pain.
Symptoms of Hot Spots on Dogs
Symptoms of a hot spot may include one or more of the following:
- Localized Inflammation and Redness of the Affected Area
- Painful, Itchy Patch of Skin
- Constant Licking, Scratching or Chewing
- Oozing Sores or Crusty Scabs
- Hair Loss With Dry Scaly Skin
- Moist Matted Fur
- Foul Odor Coming From Hot Spot Lesion(s)
- Unusual Aggression Associated With Pain
- Lethargy or Depression Associated With Pain
Effective Treatments For Hot Spots on Dogs
- Clean the Area: Gently clean the hot spot with a mild, pet-safe antiseptic to remove debris and bacteria, reducing the risk of infection.
- Apply Topical Treatments: Use an over-the-counter or vet-recommended topical ointment or spray to soothe irritation and promote healing.
- Prevent Licking and Scratching: Use an Elizabethan collar or an alternative to prevent your dog from further irritating the hot spot by licking or scratching.
- Manage Underlying Causes: Address any underlying issues such as allergies, flea infestations, or infections that may be contributing to the hot spots.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Regularly groom your dog and keep their coat clean and dry to prevent moisture buildup that can exacerbate hot spots.
- Consider Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Consult your veterinarian about appropriate anti-inflammatory or antihistamine medications to reduce itching and inflammation.
- Ensure Proper Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet with essential fatty acids to support skin health and resilience against irritants. Raw diets can be particularly effective as they are rich in high-quality proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness.
Best Dog Food for Hot Spots
Feeding a raw diet can be one of the most effective ways to support skin health and reduce these hot spot flare-ups. Raw food provides dogs with high-quality, minimally processed protein, natural fats, and essential nutrients that are closer to what their bodies are designed to digest. These nutrients help maintain a strong immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin and coat. Unlike many commercial kibble formulas, raw diets avoid fillers, artificial preservatives, and grains that can trigger sensitivities, making it an ideal choice for dogs prone to hot spots.
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