A hot spot is caused by excessive moisture, it could be a hot spot, it could also be a lick granulanoma (sp?). The LG is what is caused by boredom ussually, like an excessive habit.

If it is a hot spot (they are ussually moist & smelly) I would not put any vaseline or ointment on the area nor would I bandage the area, as it will only make it worse. You want to keep the area as dry as possible. Shave the fur if possible. Air is the main healing ingredient in hot spots. They do sell an over the counter hot spot medicine/shampoo made by salfodex (sp?) it is found at walmart or the like, it is a small bottle w/ yellow liquid. It does help.

Have you looked his feet all over? Any thorns, cracks, bites, sores, ticks, anything out of the norm? Make sure you check in between the toes.

If you are unsure & the area is getting raw I would make a vet appointment. Good luck