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Is my dog's constant licking a hotspot, granuloma, allergy, or anxiety?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Parson Russell Terrier | Female | spayed | 7 years and 5 months old | 18 lbs

Is this acral lick granuloma or a hotspot and if the latter, how do I know if it is caused by allergy or anxiety? She is on a prescription diet due to her vets recommendation. She is a service dog, so limiting what kind of surface she will walk on is not really an option and she (hilariously) refuses shoes.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 30th, 2020

It doesn't have the appearance of a lick granuloma. It could be a hotspot. Hot spots typically have an allergic component. You can discuss allergy testing, hydrolyzed diets, food elimination trials and antihistamine use with your veterinarian An e-collar (cone) can be used to prevent licking. Minor hot spots are treated topically. The spot is clipped, cleaned and an antibiotic/steroid ointment is applied until resolved. https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/acral-lick-dermatitis/ https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/hot-spots/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-treat-and-prevent-hot-spots-on-dogs/

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 18th, 2019

    This looks like a possible hot spot or even a lick granuloma from Spike licking it constantly. I would try to put a cone collar on him, put some Neosporin on the top and try some Benadryl. If this doesn't help, I would strongly recommend to have him seen by your vet. Your vet will be able to determine the cause and get him started on the proper oral meds to help him heal. I hope this helps! https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/

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