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Why is my dog sluggish, not eating, with hot spots and a sore tail?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 3 years and 1 month old | 65 lbs

My dog has been sluggish and not eating much I noticed today what seemed like hot spots are all over his body and he has a sore on his tail that looks infected.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 8th, 2017

Poor Chief! Some of these lesions could be deep and all look infected, likely with bacteria. His skin could be making him feel too bad to eat as well as too painful/inflamed to walk/move. I don't think these spots will respond to just over the counter pet shampoos. I recommend your veterinarian do an exam and you discuss topical and oral antibiotics as well as what could have caused this (allergies, insects, immune system issues). In the meantime sometimes boiled chicken/white rice (warmed) could help a dog eat as well as canned food if his normal diet is wet food. Do not give any human pain medication as they can be very toxic to dogs and cause more issues.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Cheif! Looks like he may be having an allergic reaction to something and has a secondary bacterial infection. These sores need to be treated. Try to prevent him from chewing or licking at them. You can purchase a cone collar to help prevent this. Also, I strongly recommend contacting your veterinarian for an exam, possible diagnostics, and medication. Please feel free to contact us again on the forum or set up a consultation if you have additional questions or want more information. Thank you.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Also I want to add that the vet will likely shave these areas, clean them thoroughly and he will need some antibiotics. They may also put him on something for the itching. Unfortunately, I do not believe benadryl will be strong enough.

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