Summer brings sunshine, outdoor adventures, and unfortunately for many furry friends, the dreaded hot spots. As a dog parent who’s battled these painful skin irritations more times than I care to admit, I know firsthand how quickly a tiny red spot can transform into a serious problem. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about preventing and treating these uncomfortable skin conditions that plague our canine companions when temperatures rise, let’s get started with how to prevent dog hot spots during the summer!

What Are Hot Spots and Why Do They Happen in Summer?

Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis) are those angry, red, moist lesions that seem to appear overnight on your dog’s skin. They’re particularly common during summer months when heat, humidity, and outdoor activities create the perfect storm for skin problems.

But what exactly causes these painful patches?*

Hot spots develop when bacteria on the skin’s surface multiply rapidly, usually after something irritates your dog’s skin and they respond by licking, scratching, or chewing the area. This creates a vicious cycle: irritation leads to scratching, which creates more irritation, leading to more scratching… you get the picture.

Common summer triggers include:

• Moisture trapped in thick fur after swimming or bathing

• Insect bites from fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes

• Heat rash from excessive panting and sweating

• Allergic reactions to environmental factors like pollen or grass

• Poor grooming: allowing debris to accumulate near the skin

Can Dogs Get Heat Rash?

Yes, dogs absolutely can get heat rash! Just like humans, dogs can develop heat-related skin irritations when they’re exposed to hot, humid conditions for extended periods.

Heat rash in dogs typically appears as small red bumps or pimple-like lesions, usually in areas where heat gets trapped—like skin folds, armpits, or the groin area. Dogs with thick double coats are particularly susceptible as their dense fur traps heat against their skin.

Identifying Hot Spots Before They Worsen

Early detection is crucial for preventing minor irritations from becoming full-blown hot spots. Here’s what to watch for:

• Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing at a particular area

• Red, inflamed skin that may appear moist or oozing

• Hair loss around the affected area

• Unpleasant odor from the affected skin

• Visible discomfort when the area is touched

Make it a habit to run your hands through your dog’s coat daily during summer months. You’ll catch potential problems before they escalate while strengthening your bond!*

Effective Prevention Strategies for Summer Skin Health

1. Strategic Grooming Practices

Does grooming help with dog hot spots? Absolutely! In fact, proper grooming is your first line of defense.

For dogs with thick or double coats:

• Consider a summer trim (but never shave completely—their coat provides sun protection)

• Brush daily to remove loose fur, debris, and prevent matting

• Use grooming wipes on areas prone to moisture after outdoor activities

For all dogs:

• Ensure they’re completely dry after swimming or bathing

• Pay special attention to areas where skin folds create warm, moist environments

• Use gentle, hypoallergenic shampoos designed for sensitive skin

2. Environmental Management

• Provide shaded areas and limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours

• Use cooling mats or vests for dogs who struggle in heat

• Rinse your dog with clean water after swimming in lakes, oceans, or pools

• Consider protective clothing for dogs with known allergies during high pollen days

3. Nutrition and Hydration

What your dog eats directly impacts their skin health. Consider:

• Omega-3 fatty acids to support skin barrier function

• Probiotics to support gut health (which affects skin health)

• Fresh, clean water available at all times to maintain hydration

• Limited inflammatory ingredients like certain grains or proteins if your dog has food sensitivities

4. Parasite Prevention

Many hot spots begin with the irritation from a single flea bite. Maintain year-round:

• Flea and tick prevention appropriate for your dog’s size and age

• Regular checks for ticks after outdoor adventures

• Environmental treatment if necessary

Treating Hot Spots When Prevention Falls Short

Despite our best efforts, sometimes hot spots develop anyway. Here’s what to do:

• Trim the hair around the affected area (carefully!)

• Gently clean with a mild antiseptic solution recommended by your vet

• Apply appropriate treatment – your vet may recommend:

Never apply human products without veterinary approval, as many contain ingredients toxic to dogs when licked.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While minor irritations might respond to home care, don’t hesitate to contact your vet if:

• The hot spot is larger than a quarter

• Your dog seems unusually uncomfortable or in pain

• The area is spreading rapidly

• You notice pus, excessive bleeding, or a foul odor

• Your dog has a history of skin problems

• You’re unsure about proper treatment

Our Experience with Prevention

We have learned through trial and error that consistency is key. Our weekly summer routine includes:

• Monday brush-outs to start the week fresh

• Post-adventure rinses after hiking or swimming

• Evening “skin checks” while we cuddle on the couch

• Keeping a small “hot spot emergency kit” with vet-approved products ready

Hot spots and summer skin irritations don’t have to be inevitable for your dog. With thoughtful prevention strategies, early intervention, and a good relationship with your veterinarian and groomer, you can help your furry friend enjoy summer adventures without the misery of skin problems. How to prevent dog hot spots in the summer is a crucial step in your seasonal vet care!

Remember that different breeds have different needs—what works for a short-coated Boxer might not be sufficient for a fluffy Samoyed. Tailor your approach to your specific dog, and don’t be afraid to adjust your strategy as you learn what works best. After all how to prevent dog hot spots during the summer is an important step in any seasonal Summer care!

What summer skin care routines have worked for your dog? Have you found creative solutions to prevent hot spots? Share your experiences in the comments below or on Instagram!