Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a spreading skin infection from a collar. How to treat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Cocker Spaniel | Male | neutered | 8 years and 11 months old | 34 lbs

Hello my dog Peyton has a really bad skin infection and seems to be spreading this started one he had a handkerchief around his neck that he got from the groomers. When we removed the handkerchief to find that he was scratching a lot underneath and this has seem to spread over the past week are there any recommendations that you can give me? I'm considering going out tomorrow morning and buy a container of antimicrobial spray for dogs

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 8th, 2017

That looks like a pretty nasty hot spot. Hot spots are caused by chronic moisture against the skin (which is common with a collar or something else wrapped around the neck). The best way to treat a hot spot is to clip the hair from the area so that it can fully dry out. You will need to use buzzing clipper, not a razor or scissors. You can try an OTC pet antimicrobial spray, but often prescription sprays or ointments work a little better since they contain a steroid and real antibiotics. You may also have to get creative in finding ways to prevent Peyton from scratching this area, as that will delay healing and can damage the skin. You can try socks, dog booties, or bandaging the feet to cover the nails. Unfortunately, due to the location, he won't be able to use an e-collar. If the hotspot isn't looking better in 48 hours, I would recommend that you have Peyton checked out by a vet.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This is commonly seen when they get a skin infection (aka hot-spots). The neck is a common place for this to happen, because moisture often gets trapped under their collar and/or loose skin. This looks rather involved and he may need to go to the vet and get treated with antibiotics to clear, but I'll give you a few tips for treating this at home. 1) Clip the hair (preferably with electric grooming clippers) around the area and expose all of the lesions. 2) Wash the area with warm water and a medicated shampoo (can get this at the pet store) once a day. Use a cloth and gently wipe away the scabs. Do not scrub, because it will irritate the skin more. It's OK if all of the scabs do not come off in each washing. 3) Make sure the area is completely dry after washing. 4) Leave the collar off. You should start seeing good results within a week after starting this. It may take a few weeks before it's completely cleared. If two weeks go by and it's not getting any better, then it's best to have a veterinarian exam it. Also, if it appears to get worse, then take him to the vet for treatment. I hope that helps and this gets cleared up soon.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 8th, 2018

    Hot spot is a common term for a skin infection caused by yeast and/or bacteria. The neck is a common place for this to happen, because moisture often gets trapped under their collar and/or loose skin. You can try a couple of things at home to get rid of these. 1) Clip the hair (using electric clippers made for dogs) around the area and expose all of the lesions. 2) Wash the area with warm water and a medicated shampoo (can get this at the pet store) once a day. Use a cloth and gently wipe away the scabs. Do not scrub, because it will irritate the skin more. It's OK if all of the scabs do not come off in each washing. 3) Make sure the area is completely dry after washing. 4) Leave the collar off if it is on the neck. You should start seeing good results within a week after starting this. It may take a few weeks before it's completely cleared. If two weeks go by and it's not getting any better, then it's best to have a veterinarian exam it. Also, if it appears to get worse, then take her to the vet for treatment. I hope that helps and this gets cleared up soon.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored