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My dog bites a growing skin spot. Is it an infection or hot spot?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Male | 1 year and 1 month old | 80 lbs

So my dog got this about a week ago. I didnt think much of it because he plays outside with another dog and I thought it was just a scab. Well it started growing and every now and then he would wine when he would try to stand. Now he bites at it from time to time. What is this?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 2nd, 2017

It looks like the skin in this area has become infected. It could have started as a simple wound, like you said, and then progressively became infected.

To help the area heal, keep the wound clean and dry. Wash it 2x a day with a gentle antibacterial soap. You can apply some triple antibiotic ointment to it as well. You will need to keep Boomer from licking the area as best as you can. The best way to do this is by placing an E-collar on him.

If this does not help the area heal in 3-5 days or if the area around the wound is swollen at all, I would recommend taking Boomer to the vet to have it evaluated. He may need oral antibiotics to get it cleared up.

I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach! Judging from the photo and the description, I would suspect this to be a hot spot. What initially caused this I am unable to tell you but the biggest factor for this becoming worse is him licking / chewing at it. I would get him checked out by your vet to ensure this is not a tumor and is indeed a hot spot. Your vet will likely have an ointment to apply to the area. I would recommend you place a plastic cone around Boomer's head to ensure he is not licking or chewing at this area so that it does not become worse. I would say this is not an emergency and that it could wait until next week to be seen. I would use the cone in the meantime over the weekend though until you get in to the vet. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via phone or text consultation if needed.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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