Best Home Remedies For Dog Hot Spots: Top Picks

James Vega | 13-02-2026

Hot spots can quickly turn from a minor irritation into a major source of discomfort for your dog. These inflamed, itchy patches often lead to excessive licking, scratching, and even open wounds, making it tough for pets to relax and heal. For pet owners, finding a safe, effective, and easy-to-apply solution is essential to restore your dog’s comfort and prevent further skin issues.

This guide reviews the best home remedies for dog hot spots, including sprays, gels, and balms designed for fast relief and gentle care. We break down the strengths of each product, highlight what sets them apart, and help you choose the right option based on your dog’s needs, skin sensitivity, and your preferred application method.

Editor's Choice
PetArmor Hot Spot Skin Remedy Spray
PetArmor Hot Spot Skin Remedy Spray
Premium Pick
Vetericyn Plus Hot Spot Spray
Vetericyn Plus Hot Spot Spray
Budget Pick
Pet MD Hydrocortisone Itch Relief Spray
Pet MD Hydrocortisone Itch Relief Spray

Top 8 Best Home Remedies For Dog Hot Spots

Finding the right Home Remedies For Dog Hot Spots isn’t always straightforward. To simplify the process, we compared leading products and shortlisted the ones that truly stand out.

1. Pet Honesty Restore + Soothe Hot Spot Spray

Best for Sensitive Skin and Odor Control
Pet Honesty Restore + Soothe Hot Spot Spray
8

Pet Honesty

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Hot spots can cause relentless itching and discomfort for dogs, often leading to excessive licking and further irritation. A gentle, targeted spray can make a big difference in soothing these inflamed areas and supporting healing.

Pet Honesty Restore + Soothe Hot Spot Spray stands out for its gentle, alcohol-free formula that calms irritation and reduces odor. It's especially well-suited for pets with sensitive skin or those prone to recurring hot spots. The light lavender scent is a bonus for keeping your dog smelling fresh without harsh chemicals.

  • MicroSilver BG and aloe vera: Soothes and protects inflamed skin without stinging
  • No alcohol, parabens, or sulfates: Safe for daily use on sensitive pets
  • Light lavender scent: Helps manage odor and keeps coats smelling clean

Compared to typical hot spot sprays, this formula prioritizes gentle, natural ingredients and odor control. While it may not be the fastest-acting for severe cases, it's a reliable choice for ongoing comfort and daily care.

Strength
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Reduces odor
  • No harsh chemicals
  • Light lavender scent
  • Safe for cats and dogs
Weakness
  • Not the fastest for severe spots
  • May require frequent reapplication

2. PetArmor Hot Spot Skin Remedy Spray

Best for Multi-Purpose First Aid
PetArmor Hot Spot Skin Remedy Spray
9.5

Petarmor

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Hot spots, cuts, and abrasions can all cause discomfort and risk infection in dogs. A versatile spray that addresses multiple skin issues can be a practical addition to your pet care kit.

PetArmor Hot Spot Skin Remedy Spray is designed for fast-acting relief from hot spots and minor wounds. It's suitable for dogs over six weeks old and works as a first aid solution for superficial injuries, making it ideal for active pets or households with multiple dogs.

  • Fast-acting formula: Quickly soothes hot spots and minor skin injuries
  • First aid use: Effective for cuts, scrapes, and abrasions
  • Reduces inflammation: Helps prevent infection and supports healing

Unlike some single-purpose sprays, PetArmor offers broader wound care benefits. The main tradeoff is that it may not be as specialized for odor control or sensitive skin as other options.

Strength
  • Fast relief for hot spots
  • Doubles as first aid spray
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Easy to apply
  • Suitable for puppies over six weeks
Weakness
  • Less focus on odor control
  • Not formulated for cats

3. Vetericyn Plus Hot Spot Spray

Best Non-Toxic Daily Use Option
Vetericyn Plus Hot Spot Spray
9.5

Vetericyn

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Persistent itching and irritation from hot spots can disrupt your dog's daily life. A safe, non-toxic spray is essential for frequent use, especially if your pet is prone to licking treated areas.

Vetericyn Plus Hot Spot Spray uses hypochlorous technology to provide itch relief and support healing without harsh chemicals. It's pH-balanced, non-toxic, and safe if licked, making it a strong choice for daily care and peace of mind for pet owners.

  • Hypochlorous technology: Delivers non-toxic, pH-balanced relief
  • Safe if licked: Suitable for pets that groom themselves
  • Veterinarian recommended: Trusted for at-home animal care

Compared to medicated sprays, Vetericyn prioritizes safety and gentle daily use. It may not provide the rapid inflammation relief of hydrocortisone-based products but is ideal for ongoing management and sensitive pets.

Strength
  • Non-toxic formula
  • Safe for frequent use
  • No stinging or harsh chemicals
  • pH-balanced
  • Veterinarian recommended
Weakness
  • Slower relief for severe cases
  • No added scent for odor control

4. Forticept Blue Butter Hot Spot Gel

Best for Visual Coverage and Healing
Forticept Blue Butter Hot Spot Gel
8.9

Forticept

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Hot spots and skin irritations often need targeted, lasting coverage to promote healing and prevent infection. A gel that stays in place can be more effective for certain wounds and active pets.

Forticept Blue Butter Hot Spot Gel offers a first-aid solution that disinfects wounds and creates an optimal healing environment. The blue color helps visualize coverage, and the thyme scent provides a pleasant, natural aroma. It's suitable for both dogs and cats, especially when you need to monitor application.

  • Blue color for coverage: Easy to see where gel is applied
  • Thyme oil scent: Naturally pleasant and safe for pets
  • Disinfects and protects: Supports healing and infection prevention

Unlike sprays, this gel stays put and is easy to monitor, but it may temporarily stain light-colored coats and requires preventing pets from licking the area for best results.

Strength
  • Visible application
  • Pleasant thyme scent
  • Suitable for dogs and cats
  • Disinfects wounds
  • Supports healing environment
Weakness
  • May stain light fur
  • Requires wound protection from licking

5. Sulfodene Hot Spot & Itch Relief Spray

Best Medicated Moisturizing Formula
Sulfodene Hot Spot & Itch Relief Spray
9.1

Sulfodene

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Itchy, irritated skin from hot spots and allergies can lead to constant scratching and discomfort. A medicated spray with moisturizing properties can provide both relief and skin support.

Sulfodene Hot Spot & Itch Relief Spray combines medicated ingredients with a moisturizing formula to soothe hot spots, scrapes, and abrasions. The easy spray application makes it convenient for quick treatment, especially for dogs with recurring skin issues.

  • Medicated formula: Targets itching and irritation from hot spots
  • Moisturizing benefits: Helps prevent dryness and supports healing
  • Spray application: Quick and easy to use on affected areas

Compared to non-medicated options, Sulfodene offers stronger relief for moderate hot spots but may not be suitable for pets with very sensitive skin or those needing a scent-free solution.

Strength
  • Medicated for itch relief
  • Moisturizes skin
  • Easy spray application
  • Trusted brand
  • Good for recurring issues
Weakness
  • Not for very sensitive skin
  • Contains medicated scent

6. HICC PET Dog Wound Care Hydro Gel

Best Protective Barrier Gel
HICC PET Dog Wound Care Hydro Gel
8.5

Hicc Pet

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Open wounds and hot spots can be vulnerable to infection and further irritation. A hydro gel that forms a protective film can help isolate the area and promote healing.

HICC PET Dog Wound Care Hydro Gel uses high-purity HOCl to soothe inflammation and create a safe barrier against pollutants. It's gentle enough for sensitive areas and daily use, making it a good choice for pets prone to recurring skin issues or those needing extra protection.

  • Forms protective film: Shields wounds from irritants and infection
  • High-purity HOCl: Offers strong anti-inflammatory action
  • Safe for sensitive areas: Suitable for eyes, ears, and nose

Unlike sprays that may evaporate quickly, this gel stays in place and hydrates the skin. The main tradeoff is that it may require more careful application and monitoring to prevent licking.

Strength
  • Protective barrier effect
  • Gentle for daily use
  • Hydrates skin
  • Safe for sensitive zones
  • Veterinarian formulated
Weakness
  • Requires careful application
  • Not ideal for heavy lickers

7. Natural Dog Company Skin Soother Balm

Best All-Natural Balm Option
Natural Dog Company Skin Soother Balm
8.3

Natural Dog Company

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Seasonal allergies and dry, irritated skin can make dogs miserable, especially during weather changes. A natural balm can offer gentle, hydrating relief without synthetic ingredients.

Natural Dog Company Skin Soother Balm uses chamomile, cocoa butter, and calendula to moisturize and calm irritated skin. It's easy to apply and safe if licked, making it a good fit for pet owners seeking a natural, mess-free solution for mild to moderate hot spots.

  • All-natural ingredients: Chamomile, cocoa butter, and calendula for soothing
  • Mess-free balm: Simple, targeted application
  • Safe if licked: No harsh chemicals or toxins

Compared to sprays and gels, this balm is best for mild irritation and daily moisture. It may not be as effective for severe hot spots or pets needing rapid inflammation relief.

Strength
  • 100% natural formula
  • Hydrates and soothes
  • Easy to apply
  • Safe for licking
  • No artificial additives
Weakness
  • Less effective for severe spots
  • May require frequent reapplication

8. Paw Science Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Lotion

Best for Sensitive Areas
Paw Science Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Lotion
8.7

Paw Science

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Hot spots and itching in sensitive areas like face folds, paws, and underarms require a gentle yet effective solution. A lotion that absorbs quickly and stays in place can help calm irritation without mess.

Paw Science Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Lotion is formulated with hydrocortisone and aloe vera for fast relief. It's lightweight, non-greasy, and safe for delicate skin, making it ideal for targeted use on hard-to-treat spots.

  • Hydrocortisone and aloe: Rapidly soothes inflammation and itching
  • Non-greasy lotion: Absorbs quickly and stays put
  • Safe for sensitive zones: Suitable for face folds and paws

Compared to sprays, this lotion offers better control and less mess in tricky areas. However, it may not be as convenient for large or heavily furred areas.

Strength
  • Fast-acting relief
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Absorbs quickly
  • No mess or residue
  • Made in the USA
Weakness
  • Not ideal for large areas
  • May need frequent application

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Home Remedy for Dog Hot Spots

Hot spot treatments for dogs come in a variety of forms, each with its own strengths and limitations. Choosing the right remedy involves balancing effectiveness, gentleness, and ease of application. Many buyers assume all hot spot products work the same, but differences in ingredients, application style, and suitability for sensitive skin can make a big impact on your dog's comfort and healing.

Choosing Between Sprays, Gels, and Balms

The form of the product affects both application and effectiveness. Sprays are best for covering larger or hard-to-reach areas, while gels and balms are ideal for targeted, lasting coverage or sensitive zones. If your dog is active or prone to licking, a gel or balm that stays in place may be preferable.

Medicated vs. Natural Ingredients

Some dogs need the rapid relief of medicated sprays, especially during acute flare-ups. Others benefit from gentle, plant-based or all-natural formulas for ongoing care. Consider your dog's sensitivity, history of allergies, and whether you need a product for daily use or occasional emergencies.

Odor Control and Scent Preferences

Products with added scents or odor-reducing ingredients can help keep your dog smelling fresh, but not all pets tolerate fragrances. If odor is a concern, look for sprays with light, natural scents or those specifically formulated for odor control.

Application for Sensitive or Hard-to-Treat Areas

Some products are formulated for use on delicate areas like face folds, paws, or underarms. Lotions and gels often provide better control and less mess in these spots, while sprays are best for general coverage.

Final Buying Advice

Choosing the right hot spot remedy comes down to your dog's specific needs and your preferred application style. Consider the severity of the hot spot, your pet's skin sensitivity, and how often you'll need to apply the product.

FAQ For Home Remedies For Dog Hot Spots

1. What is the fastest way to treat dog hot spots at home?

Medicated sprays with hydrocortisone or similar ingredients provide the quickest relief for inflammation and itching. For ongoing care, gentle non-toxic sprays or gels can help prevent recurrence.

2. Are natural hot spot remedies as effective as medicated ones?

Natural remedies are gentler and safer for daily use, but may take longer to relieve severe symptoms. Medicated products are better for acute flare-ups but should be used as directed.

3. Can I use these products on cats as well as dogs?

Some products are safe for both cats and dogs, but always check the label. Avoid medicated sprays on cats unless specifically approved for feline use.

4. How often should I apply hot spot treatments?

Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Most sprays and gels can be applied 2–4 times daily until the area heals, but frequency may vary by product and severity.

5. What should I do if my dog licks the treated area?

Choose lick-safe, non-toxic formulas if your dog is prone to licking. For medicated or colored gels, use a cone or distraction to prevent licking until the product is absorbed.

6. When should I see a vet for my dog's hot spot?

If the hot spot worsens, spreads, or shows signs of infection (pus, odor, swelling), consult your veterinarian. Persistent or severe cases may require prescription treatment.

James Vega

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