Hot Spot Remedies For Dogs In Need

As devoted pet parents, we tirelessly pursue our furry companions' health, happiness, and security. Watching our beloved pups suffer through the distressing itch and irritation of hot spots—those pesky, inflamed patches of skin that seem to appear out of nowhere—is as challenging for us as it is for them.

It’s essential to arm ourselves with knowledge and effective treatments to combat these uncomfortable outbreaks. Dive into this detailed guide to uncover proven hot spot relief strategies, holistic remedies, and advanced care techniques that promise to soothe your dog's skin, restore their comfort, and return the wag to their tail.

1. What are hot spots?

Hot spots are a common skin disorder in dogs. Their appearance can be abrupt, frustrating, and harmful to our pup’s health & happiness.

Also known as acute moist dermatitis, hot spots are localized areas of skin inflammation & infection that can spread quickly and develop into large, oozing lesions. These lesions often become hot, red, raw, and irritated.

2. What causes hot spots?

Hot spots are usually worsened by licking, scratching, or chewing. There are many potential causes:

• Allergies (food & environmental)
• Ear infections, bacterial infections, yeast infections
• Insect bites
• Pyoderma & other skin infections
• Anxiety & excessive scratching, picking, or grooming
• Bad habits
• Poor grooming
• Chronic or acute injury
• Anal gland inflammation & infected areas
• Orthopedic conditions & issues

Although they can be very painful, hot spots are treatable and usually preventable with proper care.

As always, consult a trusted veterinarian before starting any new treatments, supplements, or routines.

3. CBD and Inflammation

Hot spots become inflamed. That inflammation & infection worsens over time and from licking.

Because of its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, CBD is a popular choice for treating inflammation both topically and internally.

The endocannabinoid system heavily regulates our pup’s immune system. The immune system plays a large role in the balance between inflammation and anti-inflammation.

Inflammation is a necessary response the body uses to protect and heal itself from injury. It is when white blood cells accumulate at an injury site. White blood cells fight infection by attacking bacteria, viruses, and germs.

Most of these cells eat harmful bacteria and clean out debris caused by trauma. Inflammation’s purpose is to eliminate the initial cause of injury and damaged cells, then start repairing.

The problem is when our pup’s immune system (and ours!) is out of balance, causing excessive or chronic inflammation. This can lead to various health conditions & issues, hot spots being one possibility.

White blood cells also contain cannabinoid receptors - which CBD interacts with and influences. So consistently giving our pet CBD oil and CBD dog treats can help these cells communicate consistently, which may not only help prevent inflammatory skin conditions but also treat them.

4. How are hot spots treated?

Hot spots are generally treated by addressing the infection’s root cause, anti-inflammatory medications, and topicals to soothe the itching & inflammation. The affected area is often cleaned & clipped, so pet parents can more easily apply balms.

Fortunately, Bailey’s has topical CBD and oral CBD oil pet products to help dogs in need of hot spot relief!

These include our hemp-infused CBD paw & nose balm, CBD pet shampoo, CBD oil for dogs, 2:1 CBD and CBG oil for dogs, and world famous CBD dog treats.

5. Bailey’s CBD hot spot remedies for dogs

6. Hemp Paw & Nose Balm for hot spots in dogs

Our hemp-infused paw & nose balm with naturally-occurring CBD is a popular choice for pups struggling with hot spots. Put it directly on the affected, cleaned area as needed.

Other reasons pet parents choose our balm are:

• Dry nose relief
• Dry paw relief
• Rash relief
• Cracked/affected area relief
• Wound care
• Wart relief
• Topical inflammation relief
• Reducing skin irritation

As the name implies, Bailey’s Paw & Nose Balm is also used regularly for the nose and paws.

Our dog’s nose is one of their most important organs, containing fifty times more receptors than humans! This contributes to both their amazing sense of smell and their overall bodily function.

Although wear & tear on our pup’s paws is normal, dry & cracked paws are highly overlooked. This is unfortunate because they are very common, causing our dogs pain & discomfort.

This balm contains 200mg of single-sourced, full-spectrum hemp extract from a small family farm who hand harvests their hemp. It also has beeswax, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, and aloe leaf juice.

6.1 Beeswax

Non-toxic to dogs and safe for licking, beeswax is explored for its antiseptic properties. It’s often used as a sealant, repelling daily dirt & grime for paws, wounds, and affected areas.

6.2 Sunflower Seed Oil (helianthus annuus)

A highly-absorbent carrier oil used to moisturize dogs’ skin, sunflower oil’s linoleic acid is effective for protection against bacteria & germs. Studies show sunflower oil’s potential for wound healing due to its oleic acid content.

6.3 Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa)

Shea butter is used as a moisturizer and skin protectant. Since it’s dog-safe when applied in reasonable amounts, we also love using it to soothe dry paws, noses, elbows, and other patches.

6.4 Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice

Aloe is loved for its potential antioxidant and antibacterial abilities. A favorite for itchy skin & sunburns, it is used for various skin issues like eczema, allergies, flaking, hot spots, and rashes.

Anti-inflammatory and cooling, aloe juice is a great choice for hot spot relief.

Give your pup’s nose and paws daily love for maximum benefits. Not to mention, you can moisturize your hands at the same time!

7. CBD Pet Shampoo

Our ph-balanced CBD pet shampoo is specifically formulated for dogs and cats with sensitive skin. Reasons dogs use Bailey’s CBD Pet Shampoo include:

• Itchy skin relief
• Flea & tick side effect treatment
• Redness reduction
• Skin allergies
• Hot spots
• Natural regular cleanser & anti-infective
• More compliments (as if your dog doesn’t get enough already!)

Our CBD shampoo is cruelty-free, third party lab-tested, & vegan with no added sulfites, gluten, phthalates, or parabens. It contains 300mg CBD from full-spectrum hemp extract, organic aloe, provitamin B5, avocado oil, and colloidal oatmeal extract.

7.1 Provitamin B5

Provitamin B5 is used to help condition, moisturize, improve manageability, and repair damage in all coat types.

7.2 Avocado Oil

Avocado oil contains a high percentage of Vitamin E, potassium, lecithin, and many other nutrients used to nourish our dog’s skin.

Avocado oil’s oleic acid promotes collagen production, which helps new skin growth and healing acceleration. This can be very beneficial for issues like hot spots!

7.3 Colloidal Oatmeal Extract

Colloidal oatmeal extract retains and suspends water over the skin, helping skin hydration. This slow-release method ensures our dog’s skin stays hydrated and moisturized for a longer time period.

Regularly using a CBD shampoo that targets skin health, growth, & wound repair may help treat and prevent hot spots in dogs.

8. CBD oil and treats for dogs with hot spots

A dual approach with CBD topicals & oral products is often best for any condition, including hot spot relief. This is due to how CBD impacts the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system controls the immune, endocrine, nervous, & digestive systems, along with other vital functions. It maintains homeostasis: the body’s inner physiological balance.

Taking CBD internally focuses on the whole-body issue instead of only the symptoms, while topicals can soothe localized areas. Consuming CBD daily may help prevent issues from recurring and aid topical effectiveness. 

We recommend combining our CBD pet shampoo & hemp-infused balm with internal CBD oil & CBD treats for maximum hot spot relief.

9. Bailey’s CBD oil for dogs with hot spots

Bailey’s CBD oil for dogs comes in a variety of strengths and bottle sizes. Oils can be mixed in with your dog’s food, treats, placed on their paw to be licked, or put in their mouth. They can also be used directly on affected areas for a concentrated topical dose!

10. CBG for hot spots

We also have a high-CBG oil for dogs.

Known as “the mother of all cannabinoids”, CBG plays a big part in hemp’s benefits, its non-psychoactive nature particularly appealing for pets. Studies explore its potential benefits for skin disorders & infections, chronic pain, wound & bone repair, high blood pressure, inflammation, gastrointestinal issues, glaucoma, and so much more.

11. Bailey’s CBD soft chew treats for dogs with hot spots

Bailey’s has a line of different CBD soft chew treats for dogs that focus on wellness, inflammation, pain relief, and overall health.

For dogs who are picky or prefer CBD treats, Bailey’s soft chews are an easy and delicious way to give your pup hemp!

12. How else can I help my dog’s hot spots?

Ok so you’ve already gone to the vet and have your trusted CBD pet products.

In addition to regular CBD supplementation and topical treatment, we can try other things to best help our pet find relief and healing.

12.1 Environmental factors

Check your dog’s environment for any allergies, irritating inhalants, fleas or pests, or any other compound that could possibly be causing your dog’s hot spot. Like us, our pups may be sensitive to something they come into contact with every day.

12.2 Food allergies

Also like us, dogs can have food allergies and sensitivities. These can manifest as skin conditions and develop into painful hot spots, especially when coupled with scratching.

Keep an eye on your dog’s nutrition, noticing if any foods act as a trigger. Consult your veterinarian for appropriate dietary replacements & assistance.

12.3 Quality food & ingredients

Even if our dog doesn’t have a food allergy, their diet still impacts their overall health. Food with low-quality or inflammatory ingredients may cause skin irritations and health conditions.

Always buy food and products from companies you trust who care about your dog as much as you do!

12.4 Anxiety and emotional turmoil

Dogs deal with anxiety and depression too. Whether it’s chronic, environmental (fireworks, loud noises, traumatic events), separation or travel anxiety, or other reasons, they find a way to cope.

Sometimes this coping leads to anxious picking, chewing, licking, or scratching. Sometimes they even pick out of boredom. Address the cause of the anxious habits and give your pup lots of love so they know they’re safe.

A CBD dog treat for calming support and overall stress relief plus quality best friend time may be what they need!

12.5 Orthopedic and chronic health issues

Orthopedic conditions or chronic health issues that cause pain, illness, or fatigue may also contribute to hot spots.

If your dog suffers from arthritis or osteoporosis, they may struggle with mobility or repetitively lay on one area of the body. This may potentially cause bed sores that develop into hot spots.

Likewise, other chronic conditions may cause inflammation, skin issues, or wounds that become painful hot spots. Always consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health conditions. 

13. Bailey’s CBD for pets

No matter what the cause, hot spots are painful, and we hate seeing our dogs in pain. When choosing CBD for pets, make sure you trust the product!

We work hard to make sure you can trust Bailey’s CBD. All products are veterinarian-formulated & third party lab-tested. Not to mention tested by our own pups! We love using a combination of CBD oil, CBD treats, and CBD topicals for hot spots.

We believe a healthy pet is a happy pet!

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any condition. Please consult a licensed healthcare physician before consuming new supplements or herbs.

14. SOURCES

Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs

Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs

Cannabinoid receptor type 1 and 2 expression in the skin of healthy dogs and dogs with atopic dermatitis

Hemp in Veterinary Medicine

Canadian dog owners’ use and perceptions of cannabis products

Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Skin Health and Disorders