An abnormal area of the body that loses fur, and perhaps leaks a fluid or becomes dry and patchy might indicate that your dog has dog hot spots. These skin lesions result from bacterial infestation of the area, but usually require some type of environmental cause that allows the bacteria to get a foothold. The technical term for these lesions is pyotraumatic dermatitis, and the underlying cause can be related to poor grooming, allergies, or behavioral issues.

Hot spots develop when the skin is irritated in some manner and infection is allowed to set in. This might be for a variety of reasons, including allergic reactions to food or environs, mats of fur that do not allow sufficient air circulation, or a behavioral problem such as excessive licking. Aside from licking, excessive scratching can also result in this problem.

It's always recommended to take your dog to the veterinarian, just in case the issue is more serious than it appears. After clipping the fur around the affected area, you or the vet will wash it regularly with a gentle antiseptic or other cleanser until it heals. Sores that were created by scratching or licking may require the use of an e-collar for a short period of time while the area heals.

Treating the problem behind the skin infection is important in making sure that the situation completely resolves. If only the end result is treated, these problematic spots will often recur. Determining the ultimate cause of the irritation is thus necessary for effective treatment.

For dogs that have developed these issues because of improper grooming, better and more frequent grooming is indicated. Regular grooming sessions (twice a week or more) are necessary for the hygiene and health of dogs with long coats. Mats need to be removed at each grooming session, or they can result in excess moisture buildup against the skin. Clipping these mats out is sometimes necessary if they refuse to be detangled. Some owners are unable to provide their dogs with the necessary grooming needed for their health-- these owners can and should take their dog to a groomer regularly.

Allergic reactions are a bit harder to deal with, as the allergy might be to almost anything in the dog's environment. Enlist your veterinarian's help in where to start, but generally, changing the dog's diet to a low-allergen food, cleaning up any fleas in the house and putting the dog on an anti-flea preparation, and vacuuming the home to remove allergens are called for. An antihistamine (either topical or oral) can help in some cases, as well.

Behavioral issues such as licking can be the most difficult to treat. Usually, affected dogs are either bored or anxious. Treating these problems can help resolve the licking. Bored dogs will benefit from more exercise and training and toys to tire out the body and mind, and anxious dogs will benefit from similar help, as well as other exercises suggested by a trainer or behaviorist. Sometimes, anti-anxiety medications are called for.

Dog hot spots are an indication that something else is wrong with your pet. Aside from treatment for the issue itself, get some suggestions from your veterinarian as to how to resolve the larger issue. With appropriate care, most dogs can recover from the underlying problem and the skin issues will resolve themselves.