My dog is scratching one spot raw and red. Could it be a hot spot?

Question

My dog Shih Tzu keeps itching in one spot. He has scratched so much he skin looks red under his coat. Please Help. Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 30 days old | 6 lbs

Dr. Rachel · Accepted Answer

Hi there, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like Blaze has what we call a "hot spot". This happens when dogs focus on a small area and begin licking and scratching it until an infection develops. This infection in turn is very itchy, which perpetuates the cycle. The best thing to do first is stop him from itching the area. This can usually be accomplished with a cone collar, a t-shirt or bandage (depending on where it is). Many times these infections require antibiotics to clear up. And of course, we need to determine why he started itching that area in the first place. He may have some underlying allergies. Your local veterinarian can work with you to manage the problem and hopefully prevent it from recurring in the future.

My dog is scratching one spot raw and red. Could it be a hot spot?

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