When should I call the vet if my dog keeps getting hot spots and sores?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your dog keeps getting hot spots and sores, it’s sensible to call the vet if the problem is recurring, spreading, smelly, very sore, or not improving with basic care. Repeated flare-ups often have more than one possible cause, such as irritation, allergies, moisture, parasites, or a skin infection, and it’s not always possible to tell which at home.

Things To Check

1. Check where the sores are appearing and whether they keep returning in the same place.

2. Look for redness, crusting, discharge, broken skin, hair loss, swelling or a warm patch of skin.

3. Note whether your dog is licking, chewing, scratching or rubbing the area more than usual.

4. Think about any triggers such as washing, grooming, swimming, muddy walks, new bedding, or changes in food, detergent or shampoo.

5. Check for fleas, flea dirt, mites or signs of other parasites, especially if the itching seems to start suddenly.

6. See whether the skin looks damp, sticky or has a strong smell, which can happen when infection is involved.

7. Make a note of how long each flare-up lasts and whether it is getting more frequent or more severe.

Common Causes

The most common reasons are irritation from licking or scratching, allergies, moist skin after swimming or wet weather, and skin infections that develop after the skin barrier has been damaged. Flea bites and other parasites can also set off repeated sore patches in some dogs.

Less commonly, repeated sores may be linked to deeper skin problems, hormone-related conditions, or another underlying health issue that makes the skin more vulnerable. A vet can help work out what is driving the cycle rather than just treating each flare-up on its own.

What To Do

Keep the area as clean and dry as you reasonably can, and stop your dog from licking or scratching if possible. If the skin is sore or broken, avoid using human creams or anything scented, as these can sometimes make things worse.

Write down when the flare-ups happen, what they look like, and anything that may have triggered them. That record can be very helpful if you do need to contact the vet.

If the skin is only mildly affected, you can also review your dog's routine for anything that might be irritating it, such as frequent washing, damp bedding, dirty collars, or rough grooming.

When To Contact A Vet

Contact your vet if the hot spots or sores keep coming back, are spreading, seem painful, smell bad, or are not improving within a day or two of sensible home care. You should also get veterinary advice sooner if your dog seems unwell, the skin is very swollen or oozing, or the itching is intense enough to stop them resting.

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