06/02/2026
๐พ Summer Alert: Hot Spots in Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Should Know
Hot, humid weather means more time outdoors with your pup, but it also means higher risk for hot spots (also known as acute moist dermatitis). These painful skin lesions can appear within hours and spread fast, so knowing the signs early makes all the difference! โ๏ธ
๐ What Are Hot Spots? Hot spots are moist, inflamed patches of skin caused by a bacterial infection. They occur when a dog repeatedly scratches, licks, or bites an area often triggered by an underlying irritant. The moisture from saliva and the broken skin creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, which is why they can grow surprisingly quickly.
โ ๏ธ Signs to Watch For:
Constant chewing, licking, or biting at one spot
Redness, swelling, or raw-looking skin
Moist or oozing patches (sometimes with a foul odour)
Hair loss around the affected area
Visible discomfort or restlessness
๐ Most Common Locations:
๐พ Paws โ especially after walks in grass or wet conditions
๐พ Groin area โ warm, moist, and easily irritated
๐พ Armpits โ where fur traps heat and moisture
๐ฟ Common Triggers:
Flea bites or allergies (a single flea bite can set one off!)
Matted or wet fur that doesn't dry properly
Ear infections or a**l gland issues causing a dog to scratch
Boredom or stress-related overgrooming
Swimming or outdoor play in humid conditions
๐ Breeds at Higher Risk: Thick or long-coated breeds tend to be more susceptible โ including Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Saint Bernards โ but any dog can develop hot spots, especially in summer.
๐ก๏ธ Prevention Tips:
Keep your dog's coat clean, trimmed, and fully dry after baths or swims
Stay on top of flea and tick prevention (ask us about Simparica TRIO or Revolution PLUS!)
Brush regularly to prevent matting
Treat underlying allergies or ear infections promptly
๐ฅ When to See Us: Hot spots don't resolve on their own โ they need treatment! A vet visit typically involves cleaning the area, clipping the surrounding fur, and may include topical or oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication. The sooner we catch it, the faster your pup heals. โค๏ธ
๐ 226-738-0411 ๐ง [email protected] ๐ discoveryah.ca