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My dog's ear has an oily, crusty patch. Is it a hot spot or dry skin?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 6 years and 3 months old | 120 lbs

My lab has a patch near his ear that is kind of oily and crusty. Other dogs try licking it and seems like his skin is dry overall

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 14th, 2020

This presentation could be due to a localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). This type of skin infection is commonly called hot spot.
A check up, appropriate disinfection and antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem.
Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking/scratching.

Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on November 13th, 2017
It looks like it could be what we call moist dermatitis, or a hot spot. This is commonly started off by allergies and scratching, then the skin becomes infected and it gets red and inflamed within hours. These typically respond well to antibiotic therapy and sometimes steroids are added as well if it is really inflamed. I would encourage you to have her seen by a veterinarian tomorrow. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on August 6th, 2017
This is moist dermatitis or more commonly called a hot spot. I recommend trimming the fur so the air can get in better, washing it with antibacterial soap, rinsing it well and applying a cortisone cream and antibacterial ointment on it. You need to prevent further scratching so the area will heal. These are common in the summer due to increased heat and humidity. They sometimes are the result of itching from an ear infection or flea bite, so check the ears for discharge and make sure there are no fleas. If you can't get it healed a veterinary exam is indicated. They can give prescription medication to control the itching and systemic antibiotics if needed. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for your dog.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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This is a healing hot spot or moist dermatitis. This usually is from scratching or excess licking. You can clean it with antibacterial soap, rinse well and then apply antibacterial ointment on it. It should heal quickly if there is no further licking or scratching. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Jaxx.

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