How do I know if the spot on my dog is a hot spot?

My dog has a red, sore spot on his neck, my dad said it started from a lump but I'm not sure if it actually did, I haven't touched it so I don't know if its hot but how do I tell if it is a hot spot. My dad has had problems recently so can't afford to take him to the vets so if I touch it and its hot does that mean its a hot spot? And if its not a hot spot what else could it be??He never wears a collar because my dad doesn't like them

Could just be his collar rubbing against his neck

I don't know what the spot could be - perhaps from scratching or some irritation? Is it where you recently applied a flea medication? Could have been a little sore that had a scab that fell off.Hot spots happen from an area being irritated and the dog will scratch at it. The scratching irritates it more so he continues to scratch or bite at it. This becomes a vicious cycle until the fur is missing and it is raw and sometimes bloody. At this point a vet visit is needed to stop the cycle. Often the area is shaved, cleaned and an anti itch injection is usually given. Antibiotics are sometimes given also. Often it is not known what started it.

Even if it is a hot spot, the vet is not necessarily needed. Get a good hot spot treatment from the pet store, I like Espree Hot Spot Foam and Vet's Best Hot Spot Spray. If these hot spots keep appearing it could be an allergy from something like the food you feed. Feed a high quality grain free kibble to avoid skin issues. Wellness and Instinct are both great brands.