Q&A for How to Treat Hot Spots in Dogs

I wouldn't recommend it. Coconut oil is said to have antibacterial properties, but these are very mild. There's a greater risk that the oil will reduce the air circulation to the skin and prevent the skin from drying up.

It's a good idea to clip the fur around the area to let more air get to the skin (do this carefully so you don't damage the skin). Also, keep the hot spot as clean as possible by bathing it with weak salt water twice daily. If the hot spot is very sticky or sore, then see a vet immediately.

Some people do use diluted apple cider vinegar for hot spots because of its mild antibacterial properties. However, make sure it is well diluted (as it will sting) and do not use it if the skin is very sore or inflamed. Always see a vet is the hot spot is deeply infected.

You need to get a good look at the skin, which means trimming the fur and then wiping away any sticky discharge. Typically with a wound you will still see signs of trauma such as scratch marks or a puncture wound. A hot spot however tends to be sore and inflamed, but with the absence of a focal point such as a bite mark.

Some breeds are prone to hot spots and no-one is 100% certain why, so there's a distinct chance it's just "one of those things" for your dog. To reduce the chances keep him well groomed and his fur trimmed so as to get as much air circulating over the skin as possible. Be vigilant for the early signs of a hot spot and treat it right away, in order to minimize the severity. Also, keep up to date with parasite treatments, so there's less chance of him scratching and traumatizing the skin.