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Is this red, raw spot on my German Shepherd's tail a hot spot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 5 years and 10 months old | 95 lbs

I'm not sure if this spot on my German Shepard's tail is a hot spot. Out of the blue, on Friday night, there was a half dollar size patch of fur missing. Red and raw. Actually looked like the fur got caught on something and ripped off- red and raw. Because it was a Friday night, we put some neosporin on it, and decided that we'd watch it until Monday when we could get to the vet. It appeared to be healing, pale-ish pink and began to form some scabs. Then tonight, it almost doubles in length

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 8th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. Based on your description and picture, I would suspect this is moist dermatitis (hot spot). I would recommend using a spray such as malacetic conditioning spray and apply to the area until resolved. I would also place a rigid plastic cone around sarges neck to make sure he is not licking at the area and making this worse. If there is no improvement or the skin condition worsens, I would recommend having this rechecked by the veterinarian for further treatment and diagnostic recommendations.I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via consultation if needed.

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