Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

What are affordable home or store treatments for my dog's hotspot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 3 months old | 65 lbs

I think my dog has a “hotspot” on his head. I was hoping you could give me some examples of things I can get at the store or around the house to help it it heal. I would like to avoid the vet because I do not have that kind of money right now. Thanks

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

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

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 16th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about Hunter. This does look like it could be a hot spot. Sometimes topical treatment alone is enough, but sometimes we may need a short course of antibiotics and steroids to clean it up. They can also be painful so I am not sure how much Hunter will allow you to do at home. In the clinic we would normally shave the area with clippers to remove the soiled hair and debris. We would then clean the area with a chlorhexidine scrub. You can find a scrub like this at your drug store under the brand name Hibiclens. For topical treatment we would usually use a Gentocin spray, such as Gentaspray. This product is usually prescription only though. You could try an over the counter hotspot spray from the pet store or the product Zymox Topical Spray which can be purchased online, but these products may not be effective depending on response you may need to make an appointment to see the vet. Best of luck to you and Hunter!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored