Hots Spots are a bacterial infection on a dog's skin, that can start very small and often go un-noticed until they are larger in size. 
A dog will lose fur in the area of the hot spot. In the early stages, the skin will be red and moist and will often appear round. The skin will be warm and your dog will constantly be itching at the area. Because of the irritation and the constant itching of the area, the bacteria  and infection spreads fast. 
As the hot spot progresses it can start to ooze pus and smell. 

The two main causes of Hot Spots are Moisture and Irritations. Sometimes the initial cause is one or both of these issues.
Moisture sitting on a dogs skin, especially under a thick coat of fur, is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Dogs who are water lovers are especially prone to hot spots, due to the constant moisture within their coat. Additional factors that help keep moisture on a dog's skin is thick, knotted, matted or unmaintained fur, collars that don't allow the skin to breath or wearing coats/jackets without having a totally dry coat underneath. 
Irritations  that cause a dog to scratch and itch constantly can lead to a hot spot in that area. Obsessive itching can be caused from a number of different reasons, including skin irritations, allergies, fleas, parasites etc. 
In this case, the hot spot and the cause of the irritation need to be treated at the same time, to prevent reoccurrence.  

A visit to your vet is needed. The area will likely be shaved to allow it to air and heal fast and your vet will prescribe the appropriate medication needed for a speedy recovery. 
It's also important to provide your vet with as much information as possible about the possible cause of the hot spot, as preventative measures may be able to be taken to prevent a flare up in the future. 

You can find more information on Hot Spots from our information brochure HERE. 

Origin:
The first Pomeranians bred, in the early 1800’s weighed up to 13kgs and were used as sheep herders. They were developed by breeding several ancient Spitz breeds together.
It wasn’t until the late 1800’s when Queen Victoria began showing and breeding the Pomeranian that she started to breed them down in size to the dog we know today.

Purpose:
Starting off as sheep herding and guard dogs, the Pomeranian we know today is more suited to agility tasks and performing tricks, making them popular as show dogs.  

Coat care:
The Pomeranian’s long, thick, double coat requires daily maintenance to avoid matting and skin problems. It should be brushed thoroughly daily as well as daily eye cleaning as they are prone to discharge build up. They shed all year round with twice yearly undercoat sheds.

Health & Temperament:
The Pom, as common with other smaller breeds of dogs, are prone to a luxating patella (dislocating kneecap.) This is something that can easily correct itself, sometimes with human assistance so its important owners are educated in this.  Skin and heart problems are often seen within the breed too. They are also prone to eye and teeth conditions so regular check-ups at the vet can help prevent these develop into serious issues.
They are a high energy, bouncy breed of dog. They are very smart, willing to learn and need to be set boundaries from a young age, to avoid an unruly, dominant, bossy dog developing. With rules and boundaries in place, you will have a very loving, loyal and calm companion. Their size makes them ideal for smaller households, providing they get regular daily walks, even if only short.
They are a very brave breed of dog, with no fear. It’s important they are socialised from a young age to avoid aggression issues as an adult. They can also act as a good guard dog, having no hesitation in using their voice to warn off any strangers.
Their life expectancy is around 15 years.