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My dog has a hot spot. What are safe pet store treatment options?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Hi there. My dog has what I think is a hot spot. Is this what it is. If so what are the treatment options. Are hot spot products sold at the pet store safe to use?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 12th, 2019

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Based on the picture, it does appear that this could be a hot spot. I typically recommend using products that soothe and treat infection. What I would recommend would be Well & Good Hydrocortisone spray (at Petco) and Miconahex + Triz spray and apply both of these twice daily until resolved. If there is no improvement within 7 days, I would recommend taking your dog in to be seen by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps!

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on July 14th, 2017
Clean the area daily with an antibacterial soap and warm water. Dry thoroughly afterwards. You can use a dab of triple antibiotic ointment. You should also use an e-collar (cone) or small tee shirt to prevent licking, chewing or scratching.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 29th, 2019
Yes it looks like a hot spot. You can try this hot spot spray medication. If that does not help after about 5 days then he should go back to the vet. Good idea with the E-collar. Definitely continue using that.

( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-hot-spot-antimicrobial-gel-for-dogs )
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 26th, 2021
It looks like your dog has acute moist dermatitis with an infection. I think your dog needs prescription medications to treat the problem, including an oral antibiotic. I don't think topical or natural treatments are going to be enough so please call a vet and schedule an exam. You could call around to a few different vets and get an estimate to treat a skin infection/hot spot.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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