French Bulldog Hot Spots- Causes and Treatment!

French bulldog hot spots are a very painful condition that affects the dog’s quality of life. They occur suddenly and can be caused by different factors. Thanks to multiple folds on their bodies, Frenchies are naturally prone to hot spots at the neck, face, and hips.

What are French bulldog hot spots?

We can describe French bulldog hot spots as moist, red, and painful lesions. They require immediate treatment in order to escape severe infections and spreading to bigger areas of the body. Sometimes, lesions also release an unusual smelly odor which strength depends on the severity of the condition.

What causes hot spots of Frenchies?

Hot spots are often caused by trapped skin moisture between the folds. That’s why it’s extremely important to weekly clean them from dirt and skin oils. Another cause of hot spots can be licking the irritated area. Frenchies who suffer from allergies are on a higher tendency to develop this condition. They’ll lick their paws and other body parts, and scratch the skin that often becomes covered with moisture and painful lesions. French bulldog hot spots can spread quickly, so that’s why it’s essential to immediately search for a help of a vet.

Other triggers that affect developing hot spots are:

• Mites
• Flea bites
• Warm weather
• Ticks
• Bacterial infections
• Allergies

How to treat hot spots on your French bulldog?

The successful treatment will be the one that includes discovered cause of the problem. Your vet will prescribe you topical and oral treatments to soothe discomfort and itchiness.

Other treatments you can prepare at home include:

• Rinsing hot spots with cool water
• Placing a cold and antibacterial compress on the affected spot
• Put an Elizabethan Collar around your Frenchie’s neck to prevent him/her from further licking.
• Apply the topical cream or solution your vet has prescribed.
• Antibiotic creams or antibiotic oral therapy is often required and you should not include them on your own.

Tips to prevent French bulldog hot spots in the future:

• Add omega 3 and omega 6 supplements to your French bulldog’s diet
• Apply coconut oil to injured and inflamed spots. This ingredient has antibacterial properties and releases itchiness.
• Regularly clean the place between your Frenchie’s folds and make sure they’re left dry after bathing. Absorb the excess moisture and water with a towel and put a little bit of cornstarch inside.
• Discover what allergen triggers itchiness in your Frenchie. Consult your vet to determine whether your pooch suffers from food or environmental allergies.
• Protect your Frenchie from fleas, ticks, and mosquitos by putting a protective tick and flea collar around his neck.

• Clean your French bulldog’s paws from sand, dirt, and plant pieces every time you get back from the walk. Apply a protective paw balm to soothe cracked and dry paw pads throughout the year.

• Feed your pooch with antioxidants such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. These fruits represent great sources of vitamins that boost the dog’s immunity.