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My dog has a bald, red patch. Is it a hot spot? Vet or home care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 67 lbs

Hi I'm wondering if someone can help me out with this. My German Shepherd mix has a bald, red patch on his butt cheek/back leg that we noticed. The fur is gone and he keeps trying to bite at it. We thought it was hot spots but aren't sure. We have his yearly vet visit next week and want to know if this is something we need to address sooner or what we should do for him at home.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 20th, 2017

I am sorry to hear about Tyson! A hot spot is definitely a possibility for a lesion like this. It is hard to tell in the photo, but if the lesion is raised from the skin we also worry about skin tumors/growths. You can try cleaning the area with mild soap Or hibiclens (available at drug stores) and applying a topical hydrocortisone but you will need to put an e-collar on Tyson to prevent him from licking the area. If it is a hot spot we often need a short course of steroids and antibiotics as well. If it is getting larger or he is really bothering at it, I would try to get him into your vet sooner.

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 6th, 2017

    This looks as if it could be acute moist dermatitis also known as a "hot spot". These often do require veterinary care if they aren't resolving on their own. We usually shave around the lesion to be sure that it isn't staying wet/moist, and sometimes treat with a course of oral antibiotics and oral steroids or NSAIDs as these are often quite inflammed and painful. Occasionally in mild cases we may see resolution with a topical hydrocortisone and antibiotic spray such as Gentocin spray. I would put an e-collar on him to prevent him from licking it further until it resolves/he is able to see the vet. More info on this condition can be found at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2714

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