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What should I do if my dog has a hot spot? How can I treat it at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bulldog | Female | unspayed | 7 months and 30 days old | 26 lbs

How to treat a hot spot at home

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

I like to trim the hair around the hot spot to open up the skin to the air. Then wash it with antibacterial soap to remove the discharge. After drying it then apply thin film of antibacterial ointment on it. You can also apply some cortisone cream on it to reduce the itch. It's best to use a restraint collar to prevent licking and scratching so it will heal. Make sure there are no fleas or ear infection as these can cause itching resulting in hot spots. If they are severe and you are unable to get them to heal then I would bring Princess to your veterinarian for treatment. They may give an injection to prevent scratching and an oral antibiotic to heal the skin infection. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Princess.

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