What should I check if my dog has a bald, raw patch on its skin?
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If your dog has a bald, raw patch, the first things to check are whether it looks wet, sore, hot, itchy or spreading. A hot spot is one possible cause, but similar patches can also come from licking, scratching, allergies, bites, rubbing or a minor skin infection.
Things To Check
1. Check how quickly the patch appeared and whether it seems to be getting bigger over a few hours or days.
2. Look for redness, broken skin, crusts, discharge, swelling or obvious heat in the area.
3. Notice whether your dog is licking, chewing, rubbing or scratching the patch more than usual.
4. Check the surrounding coat and skin for fleas, other biting insects, mats, dirt or anything stuck to the fur.
5. Think about recent grooming, bathing, swimming, wet weather, collar rubbing or harness friction.
6. Check for signs of discomfort elsewhere, such as shaking, general itchiness, ear irritation or sore paws.
7. Make a note of anything new in the environment, diet, bedding or routine that might have irritated the skin.
Common Causes
Hot spots are a common reason for a bald, raw patch, especially if the skin is damp, inflamed and being licked or scratched.
Allergy-related irritation is another common cause and may make a dog scratch, lick or rub one area until the skin breaks down.
Minor bites, stings, matting, collar rub or a small wound can also create a raw patch that becomes worse with licking.
Less commonly, a skin infection, sore skin condition or another underlying issue may be involved, particularly if the patch keeps returning or doesn't settle.
What To Do
Try to stop your dog making the area worse by reducing licking, chewing or rubbing as much as you can.
Keep the patch clean and dry, and avoid using human creams, sprays or home remedies unless your vet has advised them.
If the fur is matted around the area, be careful not to pull at it, as that can make the skin sore and more irritated.
It can help to note when the patch started, whether it seems itchy, and what was happening beforehand, such as exercise, bathing or time outdoors.
If the skin looks moist or very sore, or if the patch is spreading, a vet can help confirm what is going on and suggest the right next step.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the patch is rapidly enlarging, very painful, oozing, smelly, or your dog seems unwell. You should also get advice if it doesn't improve within a day or two, keeps coming back, or your dog is bothering it enough to keep making it worse.
Products That May Help
If your dog is prone to skin irritation, gentle grooming and routine coat care may help you stay on top of dirt, moisture and debris that can make the area harder to monitor.
Related Questions
Could fleas or allergies cause a hot spot?
Should I stop my dog licking a raw patch?
When does a hot spot need a vet?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.