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My dog has a red, inflamed rash from licking. Is it a hot spot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 20 lbs

My dog has a reddish skin rash may look like because he keeps licking its inflammated and i don't know what it is.. can you help me

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 14th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for your post! From the pictures you posted, it looks like Chico may have a hot spot (moist dermatitis) area in front of his prepuce / penis. Some of the area appears to be yellow and this might indicate it is infected. I would get your vet to check this out so that Chico can receive the appropriate treatment. Most likely he will need an oral antibiotic and some topical ointments to treat the area. If he is constantly licking the area, I would get a plastic cone to keep around his head to prevent him from licking the area and making it worse. I hope this helps! Please feel free to contact me with any other questions / concerns you may have. I am also available via consultation.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 19th, 2018

    This looks a lot like a hot spot. It usually is caused by something that made him start licking and then they lick it until there is a raw area and it is infected. I would put a cone collar on him to prevent the licking (he is likely still licking even though you aren't seeing him). You can also clean it with some mild soap and water (be sure to rinse it well) and give him some Benadryl twice a day to help. See link below. Finally, I would put some type of antibiotic ointment on it. If it isn't improving soon or starts to get worse, I would strongly recommend to have your vet take a look at it to see if he needs some oral antibiotics or stronger allergy meds. https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/#!

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on October 2nd, 2017

    The pictures are suspicious for moist dermatitis, or hot spot. Typically these need antibiotics and sometimes a steroid to resolve. Also it is important to keep his mouth off of it as licking and chewing won’t allow it to heal. I would recommend that he be seen by a veterinarian soon. I hope he improves quickly!

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