Some dog hot spots include the dog park, the beach, or the local pet shop. However, dog hot spots are also a common, yet very painful condition that many dogs suffer from every year. Essentially, a hot spot is an irritated area on the dog's body that ranges from the size of a quarter to the palm of one's hand. The skin is infected as a result of any number of causes, and then exacerbated as the dog continues to lick and scratch the problem area. While hot spots are very common and agonizing, they can be easily treated and prevented.

Hot spots can appear as a result of many different issues. Dogs with heavy coats are especially prone to skin conditions as their hair can become matted (especially before shedding) and moisture builds up and presses on the skin. It is also harder to spot a hot spot early on when a dog has longer hair. If a dog is plagued with fleas or mites, they tend to scratch and lick at themselves and form moist problem areas. Sometimes a dog may experience an allergy, either from its food or from the air it is breathing. Hot spots are especially common in the summertime when airborne irritants are most prevalent. The inhaled irritants may be present in the dog's home. Dusting and vacuuming often will help to rid the home of harmful allergens. Some dogs suffer from "separation anxiety" and lick a certain area constantly when left alone, resulting in the ultimate bacterial breeding ground. In many cases, the animal's diet does not contain the essential vitamins and nutrients that are necessary to ward off coat and skin conditions. Some dogs are more prone to certain skin conditions than others. In general, dogs with heavy coats are more likely to develop some sort of skin problem. Additionally, certain breeds, such as Newfoundlands and Sheepdogs are inherently prone to skin issues.

Treating an existing spot depends on the severity of the specific spot. In minor cases, ointments such as Neosporin may be applied to the area several times a day until the spot disappears. Many people have had success using powders to try the area; Gold Bond is a good one. In more severe cases, a trip to the Vet may be necessary. A veterinarian will clean and dry the spot, then potentially prescribe an anti-biotic or cream. In every case, it is important to keep the dog from continuing to lick the irritating area. Elizabethan collars are a good way to prevent continuous licking and scratching. Shaving away a patch of matted hair will help prevent a skin condition that can be otherwise impossible to see.

Luckily, there is a solution that will allow your dog to enjoy a happy, hot spots free life. Using supplements, especially those containing lecithin, omega fatty acids and vitamin E can prevent hot spots altogether. IN Diet Supplements for dogs have a 20 year track record of clearing up and preventing hot spots. In case after case, dogs that are prone to constant hot spot break outs begin an IN regiment and never have to deal with anymore painful skin/coat conditions. Supplements can compliment your dog's existing diet and provide all of the vitamins, nutrients and fatty acids that their food is lacking. Dog food is cooked at very high temperatures and as a result, much of the nutritional value is burnt out. Try a supplement and see what a difference it can make.