The Teacup Pomeranian is a tiny bundle of joy, but it requires special care to thrive. They weigh between 3-7 pounds and stand about 6-10 inches tall.
To ensure your Teacup Pomeranian stays healthy, regular grooming is essential. Their thick double coat sheds heavily, so be prepared for daily brushing.
Their small size also makes them prone to hypoglycemia, so a balanced diet is crucial. Feed them 3-4 times a day to maintain stable energy levels.
With the right care, your Teacup Pomeranian can live up to 12-15 years. That's a long time to enjoy their playful, affectionate nature.
Appearance
The Teacup Pomeranian's appearance is a big part of their charm. They're tiny dogs with a very distinct look.
Their ears are small, erect, and sit high on the head, giving them a fox-like appearance. Their eyes are dark and bright, medium-sized and almond-shaped, and are one of their most striking features.
Their nose is black, but can also be self-colored in blue-gray, chocolate, or beaver breeds. Their double coat is made up of short, thick fur below and an abundant coarse outer coat.
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Pomeranians come in a wide range of colors, including orange and red-toned coats, which are the most common. They also have a thickly plumed tail that's set high up on the back and lies flat.
Here are some key features of the Teacup Pomeranian's appearance:
- Ears: Small, erect, and high on the head
- Eyes: Dark, bright, medium-sized, and almond-shaped
- Nose: Black or self-colored
- Coat: Double, with short fur below and a coarse outer coat
- Coat Color: 2 dozen options, including patterns and markings
- Tail: Thickly plumed, set high on the back, and lies flat
Temperament
Pomeranians are known for their happy-go-lucky nature, making them a great companion for people of all ages.
They're incredibly social and love being around others, which is why they're often described as perky and alert to their surroundings.
Pomeranians are intelligent and easy to train, which is a bonus for their owners. They're listed fairly high in the dog intelligence ranks, making them a great breed for first-time dog owners.
However, they can be a bit stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are key when training them.
Pomeranians are naturally wary of strangers, but they make up for it with their enthusiasm and energy. They're great watchdogs, but they may bark excessively at times.
It's essential to socialize your Pomeranian well, especially if you have young children, as they can be a bit fragile due to their small size.
Despite their small stature, Pomeranians are full of energy and love to play, which means they need regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
They're also known to be fearless, which can sometimes lead to unfortunate situations if you're not vigilant when they're around larger animals.
Grooming a Miniature
Grooming a Miniature Pomeranian requires regular attention to their thick coat.
Use a wire pin brush or a two-level steel comb to gently remove tangles and mats, ideally three times a week.
A complete grooming package, which includes bathing, brushing, and a haircut, is recommended every four to six weeks.
Brushing their teeth a few times a week, or even daily, is crucial to prevent dental issues.
Tap a professional groomer if you're not comfortable handling sensitive areas, such as cleaning the ears or anal glands.
Recommended read: Welsh Corgi Grooming
Regular nail clipping is also essential to prevent overgrowth.
A Miniature Pomeranian's adult coat should be brushed at most three times a week, unless they're shedding heavily, in which case daily brushing may be necessary.
Using a slicker brush with a bubble or polished tip can help detangle their coat and reduce shedding.
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Health
As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your Teacup Pomeranian.
Pomeranians are generally healthy canines, but they can be prone to some health problems related to their tiny bodies. Patellar luxation, which is when the kneecap pops out of place, can be painful and cause your Pom to limp or develop arthritis.
Collapsing tracheas can also occur in Poms, causing symptoms ranging from a mild goose honking cough to severe respiratory distress. A harness is a better choice than a traditional neck collar when walking your Pom to avoid putting pressure on the trachea.
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Hypothyroidism is a common issue in Poms, causing signs such as lethargy, hair thinning, a dry coat, and an increase in weight without eating more kibble. A vet can diagnose this issue with a blood test and it can typically be regulated with medications.
Pomeranians can also be susceptible to hypoglycemia, a condition of low blood sugar that can cause symptoms like weakness, sleepiness, and seizures. Keeping your puppy fed on a regular schedule helps prevent this issue, and most pups outgrow it as they mature.
Here's a summary of some common health issues in Teacup Pomeranians:
- Hypoglycemia: low blood sugar that can cause weakness, sleepiness, and seizures
- Liver shunts: a congenital problem that can cause abnormally small body size, excessive urination, and various other symptoms
- Fragile bones: smaller bones that are more prone to fractures and breaks
In some cases, surgery may be needed to correct issues like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. It's essential to work closely with a veterinarian to monitor your Pom's health and address any potential issues early on.
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Care and Upkeep
Pomeranians are active little dogs, but their small size means they don't need a lot of space to get their exercise. They can thrive in a yard or even an apartment if you take them for daily leash walks.
Their coat care is relatively low maintenance, but it does require regular brushing - at least twice a week, and more often when they're shedding. This helps prevent matting and tangling, and reduces the risk of painful skin conditions.
Pomeranians can be prone to certain health issues, including patellar luxation, which is a dislocation of the kneecap. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary, but with proper care and attention, many Poms can live happy, healthy lives.
Dog Growth
A Teacup Pomeranian should grow between 6 and 10 inches in height.
They're actually quite close to the size of a regular Pomeranian, which grows as tall as 11 inches.
To stay within their guidelines, breeders try to keep them on the smaller side so they don't weigh too little for their height.
Teacup Pomeranians usually weigh the same as regular Pomeranians, just a bit more compact.
You can expect your Teacup Pomeranian to reach their full height within the first year of life.
Teacup Pomeranians are bred in the same colors as regular Pomeranians, including white, brown, gray, and black.
They also come in a lovely rust color coat that is usually quite desired.
Don't be surprised if your Teacup Pomeranian sheds a lot, especially during shedding season.
Their double-coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
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Dog Care
Pomeranians are super smart and enjoy learning new skills, making them a joy to train.
They're also active little pups, but their short legs mean they don't need a lot of space to get their exercise in.
In fact, a short walk out in public is fine, just keep it to around 15 minutes, and they'll be happy.
Their small size makes them ideal for owners who live in apartments, and they can even get enough exercise in their own home.
Their thick coats require regular brushing, ideally twice a week, especially when they're shedding.
Be aware that some Poms can suffer from a painless disorder called alopecia X, or black skin disease, which causes hair loss and exposed skin to turn black.
Pomeranians also have a high incidence of patellar luxation, a dislocation of the kneecap, which can cause them to hop to avoid using the impaired leg.
In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the issue.
Diet and Nutrition
Your Teacup Pomeranian's diet is a crucial aspect of their overall health and well-being.
For a complete and balanced diet, you can choose either commercially prepared food or homemade meals, but be sure to run your homemade concoctions by your vet to ensure they meet your pet's nutritional needs.
It's essential to consider your Teacup Pom's age when selecting the right kibble, which means puppy food for young dogs, adult food for adult animals, and a senior diet for your elderly Pomeranian.
Treats are a vital part of a dog's diet, especially during training and as rewards for good behavior. However, don't go overboard with treats, as serving too-large portions can lead to an overweight Pom.
Always keep fresh water available for your pup to stay hydrated.
Consult your vet for the best serving size for your Teacup Pomeranian, based on their weight. Even regular Pomeranians only eat up to one cup of food per day, so your Teacup variant will eat even less than that.
It's vital that they consume nutritious foods and drink plenty of water to maintain their overall health.
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Exercise and Activity
Regular exercise is essential for your Teacup Pomeranian, and a daily activity of around 30 minutes should do the trick. This can be broken down into short walks, ideally 15 minutes, to keep them entertained and active.
Pomeranians are super smart and love learning new skills, so make sure to include some mental stimulation in their daily routine. They're also active little pups that can tire themselves out in minutes, so be kind and recognize their limitations.
A great way to keep your Teacup Pomeranian entertained is to create an indoor obstacle course, which can also serve as a training opportunity and part of playtime. Alternatively, try playing hide and seek or using a bubble wand to create a fun and engaging experience for your pup.
Exercising Your Dog
Exercise is essential for your Pomeranian, so get them off your lap and into the backyard or park for some run-around time. A 20-minute walk a couple of times a day should do the trick.
Regular exercise is crucial for Pomeranians, and it's not just about burning off energy. It's also about keeping them safe, as they can easily slip through holes in fences or get swooped up by hawks.
Keep your Pomeranian on a leash when out in fields or open areas, as they may resemble small rodents and attract predators. Staying aware of your surroundings is also essential.
Pomeranians are friendly and adaptable, making them a great fit for nearly any family. They'll happily reside in small condos or larger homes with a posse of pets and kids.
A 30-minute daily activity is all your Teacup Pomeranian needs, despite their high energy levels. This is because of their small size, which means they tire quickly.
Short walks of around 15 minutes are perfect for Teacup Pomeranians, and they're ideal for apartment owners due to their small size.
Do Miniature Dogs Like Water?
Miniature dogs can enjoy going in the water, but it's essential to ensure they feel safe and aren't left alone.
Some miniature dogs like swimming, while others prefer to avoid it altogether, so it's crucial to understand their individual preferences.
Teacup size miniature dogs, in particular, require close supervision near any body of water due to their tiny size and potential health issues.
Their health problems can be easily exacerbated with the slightest mistake, making it vital to be cautious when introducing them to water activities.
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Training and Behavior
Training a Teacup Pomeranian requires patience and consideration, especially with their smaller bladders that need to be taken out every 30 minutes or so.
Pomeranians are intelligent dogs, but they can be energetic and prone to jumping, so mastering the "off" or "down" command early on is crucial to prevent injuries.
To prevent accidents, it's essential to use training pads or a non-slip backing for potty training, especially with tiny pups.
Teacup Pomeranians are fragile, so it's best to use a harness with a front clip, rather than a neck collar and leash, to prevent hurting them during leash training.
Do Poms Have Separation Anxiety?
Poms can suffer from separation anxiety, which is a serious issue that can cause them to get scared, anxious, and stressed when left alone.
Separation anxiety can kick in after just an hour, which is a severe case, but it shows how common this type of anxiety is.
Some Poms are more anxious than others, just like humans, and it's not necessarily related to their past experiences.
Pomeranians are one of the many breeds that are prone to separation anxiety, and it's not about being too clingy, but rather being frightened of being left behind.
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Training Dogs
Training your Pomeranian requires patience and consideration, as they're intelligent but energetic dogs. With the right approach, you can teach them to sit, stay, and speak.
Housebreaking is a crucial part of Pomeranian training, and accidents can happen due to their small bladders. Training pads, like the Pet Parents washable dog pee pads, can be a helpful solution.
Pomeranians are prone to jumping, especially on chairs, couches, and beds, so teaching the "off" or "down" command is essential to prevent injuries. This command can help prevent energetic Poms from leaping onto furniture.
Teacup Pomeranians are relatively easy to train with patience and control. Their intelligence makes them responsive to training sessions, but it's essential to stay in control.
Leash training is critical for Teacup Pomeranians, and a harness is a better option than a neck collar. A front clip harness keeps the dog at your heels and allows you to monitor them closely.
Short walks of around 15 minutes are suitable for Teacup Pomeranians, as they only need half an hour of exercise per day. This makes them ideal for apartment living.
Do Dogs Bark?
Dogs bark for various reasons, including alerting their owners to potential threats or expressing excitement.
Barking can be a natural tendency in some breeds, such as Teacup Pomeranians, which can bark at everything if left untrained.
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Training from a young age can make a big difference, as it helps dogs become more intelligent and responsive to commands.
Toy Pomeranians, in particular, can make excellent guard dogs if given proper care and training.
Their alert nature can be a valuable asset, but it requires attention and guidance to channel their energy in a positive way.
Purchasing and Ownership
When you've decided on a breeder, it's time to think about purchasing and ownership. Pomeranian breeding isn't a great practice, so be cautious.
Never pay any money up-front when buying a Teacup Pomeranian from a breeder. You want to ask questions about the sale and get photos of the litter with their mother.
Stay in contact with the breeder throughout the weeks leading up to pickup, and don't trust breeders who won't supply photos or refuse to give updates.
If this caught your attention, see: When Can I Breed My Female Dog
Puppy Average Price
The average price for a Teacup Pomeranian Puppy is between $500 to $1500.
If you're looking for a bigger breed, the average price for a Labrador Retriever Puppy is around $800 to $1200.
A Pomeranian Puppy from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from $1000 to $2000.
The price of a puppy can vary depending on factors like location and bloodline.
Consider reading: How Much Is Irish Wolfhound
Adoption Options
Adoption Options can be a bit tricky for Teacup Poms. It's difficult to adopt a Teacup Pom because they aren't usually left at shelters.
You can try checking your local shelters, but keep in mind they might not have any. You can also look online for a Teacup Pomeranian rescue center.
Finding a Good Breeder
Don't just search for puppies for sale, do some research to find a reputable breeder. You want to ask a lot of questions about the sale, so be prepared to do some digging.
Never pay any money up-front, as this is a red flag. You should be wary of breeders who ask for large deposits or unprotected money transfers.
Get photos of the litter for sale with their mother, as well as solo photos of that particular puppy. This will give you an idea of the puppy's health and temperament.
Breeders who won't supply photos or refuse to give updates on the sale shouldn't be trusted. If this happens, it's best to move on to other breeders.
Take care of yourself and your finances first, and don't rush into a sale. There will always be other puppies for sale elsewhere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a teacup Pomeranian?
Teacup Pomeranians can range from $1500 to $6500+, influenced by factors like breeder, age, location, and health status. The price varies significantly depending on these factors, making it essential to research and understand what affects the cost.
How big do teacup poms get?
Teacup Pomeranians typically weigh 2-6 pounds and stand 6-11 inches tall, reaching full size by 9-10 months old.
What is the lifespan of a teacup Pomeranian?
A Teacup Pomeranian's average lifespan is 12-16 years, with proper care potentially increasing its life expectancy.
Sources
- Pomeranian Dog Breed: Characteristics, Care & Photos (chewy.com)
- PetMD - Pomeranian (petmd.com)
- American Kennel Club - Pomeranian (akc.org)
- Teacup Pomeranian: Breed Facts, Temperament, and ... (petside.com)
- bred for dwarfism (hillspet.com)
- 15 Teacup Dog Breeds That Are Tiny and Adorable (rd.com)
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