The "Hot Spot" Guide

What is a Dog Hot Spot? How to Spot, Soothe, and Prevent Them

It usually happens overnight. You go to bed with a happy dog, and you wake up to find them obsessively chewing a raw, red, oozing patch of skin on their hip or neck.

This is Acute Moist Dermatitis—commonly known as a "Hot Spot." In humid Australian climates, hot spots spread like wildfire because bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments (like a wet dog coat).

What Causes Hot Spots?

A hot spot is rarely the primary issue; it is usually a reaction to an itch.

1. Your dog gets a bug bite, a tick, or a grass allergy.

2. They lick or chew the spot.

3. The moisture from their saliva, combined with body heat, causes a massive bacterial overgrowth.

4. The skin becomes infected, painful, and highly itchy, creating a vicious cycle.

How to Manage a Hot Spot Naturally

Disclaimer: If the hot spot is severely infected, spreading rapidly, or your dog is in extreme pain, visit your vet immediately. For minor or emerging hot spots, you can manage them at home.

Step 1: Clear the Area Bacteria need hair to trap moisture. If possible, carefully trim the hair around the hot spot to let the skin breathe.

Step 2: Sanitize Gently Do not use harsh human antiseptics (like Dettol), which will burn and traumatize the dog. Instead, gently lather the area with the Barkmere Soap Bar. The natural oils will cleanse the bacteria without stinging. Rinse thoroughly and pat it completely dry.

Step 3: Soothe and Protect Once dry, apply a dab of Bark Butter Balm.

• Why this works: The Calendula and Sunflower extract in the balm are renowned for their natural soothing properties, helping to calm the angry red tissue. The Beeswax creates a light protective seal, making it harder for the dog's saliva to re-infect the area if they try to lick it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Should I bandage a hot spot? Usually, no. Hot spots need air to dry out and heal. Bandaging them traps the moisture and heat, which makes the bacterial infection worse.

Why do Golden Retrievers get so many hot spots? Dogs with thick double coats (Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Collies) trap heat and moisture near the skin easily, especially if they aren't dried properly after swimming.