Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are red, inflamed, and often oozing skin lesions that can develop rapidly. Hot spots are usually the result of a dog repeatedly licking, chewing, or scratching one area until the skin barrier breaks down. Once the skin is damaged, bacteria can multiply quickly, worsening the lesion.
They typically appear as:
Red, raw patches
Moist or weeping skin
Hair loss in a circular area
Painful or warm-to-touch spots
Rapid enlargement within hours
Hot spots often seem to “appear overnight."
This is because:
Moisture and warmth accelerate inflammation and infection, which is why hot spots can expand rapidly.
Hot spots are usually secondary to an underlying trigger. Identifying that trigger is critical to preventing recurrence.
Environmental Allergies
Pollen, grass, mold, and dust mites can cause itching that leads to scratching and skin damage.
Fleas and Parasites
Even one flea bite can trigger intense itching in sensitive dogs.
Food Sensitivities
Certain ingredients may trigger systemic inflammation, increasing itchiness and skin irritation.
Excess Moisture
Swimming, rain exposure, or thick coats that retain moisture can create ideal conditions for bacterial growth.
Grooming or Coat Matting
Poor air circulation in dense fur can trap moisture and heat.
Stress or Anxiety
Excessive licking due to stress can damage the skin.
Hot spots are rarely the primary problem. They are usually the result of underlying inflammation.
When inflammation increases:
Food sensitivities can contribute to this inflammatory state. When the immune system reacts to certain ingredients, it may heighten itchiness in areas like:
| Hot spots may be linked to food sensitivities if you notice: |
|---|
| Year-round itching |
| Ear infections |
| Soft stools |
| Paw licking |
| Multiple allergy-related symptoms together |
| Food-related symptoms tend to persist regardless of season. |
Hot spots can worsen quickly and often require veterinary attention.
Seek immediate veterinary care if:
Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or topical treatments to control infection and pain.
Treating the lesion is only part of the solution. Preventing recurrence requires addressing the underlying trigger.
Prevention strategies include:
For dogs sensitive to common proteins, simplifying the diet may help reduce systemic inflammation.
Novel proteins such as:
are less commonly fed and may reduce immune stimulation in sensitive dogs.
Switching to a single-protein, chicken-free formula may help:
Consistency during the trial period is essential.
Wild Kangaroo & Apples
Hypoallergenic, high-protein formula with novel kangaroo protein, free from chicken.
Viva La Venison
A grain-free, venison-based formula ideal for sensitive skin and stomachs, with no chicken.
Zen Vegetarian
A plant-based formula that’s gentle on sensitive systems, free from all animal proteins.
Outback Kangaroo Feast
A novel protein dog food that’s air-dried to preserve nutrients, helping to reduce itching and inflammation associated with food sensitivities.
Venison & Cranberry Dinner
A delicious, air-dried dog food made from novel venison protein—perfect for pets with food sensitivities.
Venison Meaty Bites
A tasty, venison-based treat that helps support healthy digestion and skin for sensitive pets. These treats are perfect for reducing inflammation.
Short, impactful quotes from real customers highlighting their pets’ improvement after switching to Addiction’s chicken-free diets.
At Addiction, we’re dedicated to providing the best food for your pet. Our chicken-free, high-quality formulas are made with natural New Zealand ingredients, designed to support your pet’s digestive and overall health.
We use novel proteins, like kangaroo and venison, that are not only easy on sensitive stomachs but also less likely to cause allergic reactions. Our formulas are free from artificial preservatives and additives, ensuring your pet gets only the best nutrition.
From our ethical sourcing to our advanced manufacturing standards, we ensure every meal is made with the utmost care and dedication. Addiction’s food is designed to help your pet feel their best, with formulas that support digestive health, skin and coat, and overall vitality.
Our Sensitive Care Range without Chicken
We use novel proteins to avoid allergic reactions and digestive issues in our Sensitive Care range.
No Artificial Colors and Flavors
Only wholesome ingredients for your pet’s health.
Made in New Zealand
With the cleanest ingredients, from the purest source.
Hot spots are usually caused by excessive scratching due to allergies, parasites, moisture, or food sensitivities.
No. Hot spots are not contagious, but they can spread quickly on the same dog.
Food sensitivities can contribute to systemic inflammation and itching, which may increase the risk of hot spots.
With treatment, mild hot spots may improve within a few days. Severe cases require veterinary care.
Clipping and keeping the area dry is usually recommended, but always follow veterinary guidance.
They can recur if the underlying trigger is not addressed.
Hot Spots can be a sign of underlying irritation or food sensitivities. Switching to a simplified, chicken-free diet may help reduce inflammation and support healthier skin over time.
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