If you're looking for a small dog breed that's perfect for apartment living or has a low-shedding coat, the Pomeranian is a great choice. They typically weigh between 3-7 pounds and stand about 6-11 inches tall.
One of the best things about Pomeranians is their friendly and outgoing personalities. They make great companions for people of all ages and are often described as "velcro dogs" because they love to be close to their owners.
Pomeranians are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise. They need daily walks, but they're happy with short, gentle strolls rather than long, strenuous runs. This makes them a great choice for people who don't have a lot of time to devote to exercise.
Consider reading: Are Pomeranians Chihuahuas
Similar Dog Breeds
If you're looking for dog breeds like Pomeranians, you might want to consider the Affenpinscher, a spitz-type breed that's also known for its intelligence and affectionate nature.
The Affenpinscher is a great companion breed, weighing in at around 7-13 pounds, and requiring moderate exercise. They're also highly trainable, which makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners.
If you're looking for a breed that's similar to the Pomeranian's big personality in a small package, the Affenpinscher is definitely worth considering.
For another approach, see: Cute Affenpinscher
Pomsky
The Pomsky is a popular designer dog, often sought after by breeders and buyers alike. It's called a Pomsky when a Husky is mixed with a Pomeranian.
This adorable mix is known for its varying sizes, ranging from a smaller Pomeranian-like size to a larger Husky size. The average size of a Pomsky is around 20-30 pounds.
Pomskies are quite pricey, with breeders selling them for over $1000.
Take a look at this: Miniature Husky Mix Puppies
Poodle Pompoodle
The Poodle Pomeranian Mix, also known as the Pompoodle, is a popular designer dog that's a cross between a Pomeranian and a Toy Poodle.
This cute toy dog tends to be very active and requires more investment for grooming.
Daily brushing and regular haircuts every few months will help you avoid the fur and shedding saga.
The Pompoodle is more popular as a single family member and needs supervision around children.
Early and consistent training is essential to save you from surprises, such as "gifts" from time to time, as this dog might like to chase small preys.
The owner needs to be assertive and firm to train and handle a Pompoodle, as it tends to be intelligent and likes to be the alpha.
Check this out: Popular Pomeranian Dog
Boxer Pomoxer
The Boxer Pomoxer is a rare mixed breed that's definitely worth mentioning. They're also known as Pomoxers.
This breed can have a Boxer or Pomeranian mother, and it's not uncommon for them to inherit the dominant Boxer personality.
Pomoxers are often described as calmer yet playful, making them a great companion for families.
They're prone to genetic disorders commonly found in purebred dogs, so regular check-ups with a vet are a must.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a high maintenance dog that requires regular grooming to prevent excessive shedding. It needs to be brushed often and visits to a professional groomer at least every other month will make shedding bearable.
This breed prefers warm temperatures and gets cold easily, so owners in cooler climates may need to take extra precautions to keep their Cocker Spaniel comfortable.
The Cocker Spaniel is a very agile and playful dog, making it a great companion for active owners.
For more insights, see: Are Cocker Spaniels Good Apartment Dogs
Blue Heeler
The Blue Heeler is a breed known for its intelligence and energy. It's a mix of various breeds, but its exact origins are unclear.
They're often used as working dogs, particularly on farms. Their herding ability is one of their most notable traits.
Blue Heelers have a strong immune system, which is a benefit of being a hybrid breed. This is due to the genetic diversity that comes with being a mix of different parent breeds.
They're generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. A mix of Pomeranian and Blue Heeler, known as a Bluanian, is also believed to have a strong immune system.
The Bluanian, a rare mix of Blue Heeler and Pomeranian, will have erect ears. This is a distinct feature that sets them apart from other breeds.
Small Dog Breeds
Small dog breeds are perfect for city living or for families with smaller spaces. They require less exercise and food, making them a great option for those who want a low-maintenance pet.
The Pomeranian, for example, is a small dog breed that weighs between 3-7 pounds and stands about 6-11 inches tall. They are known for their thick double coat, which sheds heavily.
Some other small dog breeds include the Chihuahua, which is the smallest dog breed in the world, weighing as little as 2 pounds. They are also known for their big ears and long lifespan.
Consider reading: Breeds of Dogs under 25 Pounds
Pitpom
The Pitpom is a rare hybrid that's a mix of a Pitbull and a Pomeranian. It's not recommended for first-time owners due to its unpredictable personality.
This dog's nature is hard to guess because its parents are very different. A firm owner with experience is needed to train it early on to get a sociable and well-mannered dog.
Small Dog Breed
Pomeranians are one of the world's most popular toy breeds, weighing less than seven pounds but with a commanding presence and big personality.
They thrive on companionship and are highly intelligent, mastering tricks with ease, and often competing in canine sports or working as therapy dogs. Poms are also pocket-sized watchdogs and can be prolific alert barkers.
Pomeranians are known for their huge personalities and equally huge coats, coming in a variety of colors including orange, red, sable, black, brown, cream, and blue merle.
They are intelligent and genuinely enjoy learning, so they do quite well with training and tend to be one-person dogs, bonding particularly tightly with one family member.
Pomeranians are a popular breed, ranking 22nd on the American Kennel Club's most popular dog breed list, making it relatively easy to find a breeder in your area.
Finding a breeder shouldn't be too difficult, with over 350 puppy litters listed on the AKC Marketplace at the time of writing.
Chihuahua Pomahua
The Chihuahua Pomahua is a small, foxy-looking hybrid that's often treated too gently due to its toy dog status. This can lead to a recipe for disaster, making it essential to socialize this dog from an early age.
Chihuahua Pomahua, also known as Pomahua or Chipom, needs to be treated like any other dog to prevent anxiety, barking, and biting.
It's crucial to pay close attention to grooming, as Pomahua tends to have sensitive skin.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a great breed for families with kids, they're warm and friendly, and tend to prefer licks over barks.
They're also very witty and know how to get attention from their human pack.
However, it's worth noting that Shih Tzus can get jealous easily if you pet another animal, so it's best to only have one dog or train them to socialize with other pets from an early age.
This breed is also good with strangers, but it's essential to keep a close eye on them to prevent potential harm or kidnapping.
Larger Breeds
Larger breeds can be a great fit for families with yards, as they require plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Some larger breeds can weigh up to 100 pounds.
If you're considering a larger breed, you'll want to make sure you have enough space in your home for them to move around comfortably. Pomeranians, for example, are small dogs that don't require a lot of space, but some larger breeds can take up a lot of room.
Larger breeds often have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds, typically living between 10-12 years.
Labrador
Labrador mixes are known to be family dogs that thrive on attention and companionship. They don't do well being left outside alone like a guard dog. Labradors need to be with their pack.
Labradors have a moderate energy level, making them suitable for seniors who have more time to care for them. This energy level can be a great match for those who can devote their time to taking care of a dog.
Suggestion: Pomeranian Dog Care
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a breed that's known for being loyal and intelligent, and it's a great companion for active families. It has a high level of energy and loves to play outside.
This breed is also relatively easy to train, thanks to its Retriever ancestry. It will enjoy playing fetch and running around with you.
One thing to keep in mind is that Golden Retrievers shed a lot, so be prepared to vacuum regularly.
Explore further: Golden Breeds of Dogs
Much Larger in the Past
Pomeranians used to be much larger. They used to weigh as much as 30 pounds.
Queen Victoria was instrumental in breeding them down in size. She wanted a smaller companion dog.
The Poms we know today are typically between 7 and 12 inches tall. They're a far cry from their larger ancestors.
Their smaller size has made them a popular choice as pets.
Dog Care and Health
Pomeranians are generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain health conditions. Hypoglycemia is a sudden drop in blood sugar that's common in small breed dogs and puppies under 3 months, requiring prompt treatment.
Pomeranians may also develop eye conditions like keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS, also known as dry eye), tear duct issues, and cataracts. Additionally, they may be at risk of orthopedic conditions such as patellar luxation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.
To support your Pomeranian's health, focus on high-quality dog food with real meat as the main ingredient, addressing their smaller size and energy requirements. Consider options with omega-3 fatty acids for coat health and overall well-being.
Here's a list of potential health issues to be aware of:
- Hypoglycemia
- Eye conditions
- Dental diseases
- Orthopedic conditions
- Tracheal collapse
Grooming
Grooming is a crucial aspect of Pomeranian care, and it's not just about making them look cute. Their thick and dense coat requires regular attention to stay healthy and shiny.
You'll need to brush your Pomeranian's coat at least once a week, and more often during shedding seasons, to prevent matting and tangling. Daily brushing is a must during these times to keep their coat looking its best.
Pomeranians often experience excessive tearing, so you'll need to clean their eyes daily with a clean cotton ball and eye wash solution. This will help prevent any irritation or infection.
Regular trips to a professional groomer are also essential to keep your Pomeranian's coat in top condition. They'll perform a "sanitary shave" to remove hair around the genital region, preventing the accumulation of bodily wastes in the fur.
Health and Conditions
Pomeranians are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health conditions.
Hypoglycemia, or a sudden drop in blood sugar, is a common issue in small breed dogs and puppies under 3 months.
Low glucose levels can be extremely dangerous in dogs and require prompt treatment, so it's essential to keep an eye on your Pomeranian's blood sugar levels.
Pomeranians may develop eye conditions like keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), also known as dry eye, which can cause discomfort and vision problems.
Tear duct issues, such as excessive tearing, are another potential eye condition that Pomeranians may experience.
Cataracts can also affect Pomeranians, leading to vision loss and blindness.
Tracheal collapse is a potentially serious condition that can cause a persistent, dry cough.
This condition is often described as a "goose hunt" cough and can be managed with medical treatment.
Pomeranians may also be at risk of orthopedic conditions like patellar luxation, where the kneecap shifts abnormally.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is another hereditary condition that can cause hip pain and lameness in Pomeranians.
This condition can be quite painful and may require surgery to remove the femoral head.
Here are some common health issues that can affect Pomeranians:
- Eye conditions: keratoconjunctivitis sicca, tear duct issues, and cataracts
- Dental diseases
- Hypoglycemia
- Orthopedic conditions: patellar luxation and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Tracheal collapse
It's essential to monitor your Pomeranian's health and seek veterinary care if you notice any unusual symptoms or behaviors.
Best Supplements
Dental health is a top priority for Pomeranian mixes, as they're prone to dental issues due to their small size. Focus on supplements that support dental health, such as those with ingredients like biotin for coat health and joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine.
Cosequin is a top choice for joint health support, recommended by veterinarians and manufactured in the US with globally sourced ingredients. It's also backed by science, with veterinarian-formulated supplements from Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for skin and coat health, and can be found in supplements like those from Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences. These fatty acids also support heart and immune system health.
Consider adding a natural fish oil additive supplement to your dog's diet, which can promote soft skin, a shiny coat, and good overall health. This supplement is rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids from EPA and DHA.
Some supplements, like PetAlive, use a therapeutic blend of organic ingredients to promote healthy skin and hair. These ingredients include horsetail, dandelion, spirulina, and bladderwrack.
Here are some top-rated supplements for your dog's health:
- Cosequin: joint health support
- Natural fish oil additive supplement: promotes skin, coat, and overall health
- PetAlive: promotes healthy skin and hair
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of dog looks like a Pom Pom?
The German Spitz Mittel is a dog breed that closely resembles the Pomeranian, with a similar lifespan but a taller and heavier build. If you're looking for a dog that looks like a Pom Pom, the German Spitz Mittel is a great place to start your search.
What is the closest relative to the Pomeranian?
The Pomeranian's closest relatives are breeds like the American Eskimo Dog, Alaskan Malamute, and Samoyed. These breeds share a common ancestry with the Pomeranian, which originated from large sled dogs.
Sources
- 43 Best Small Dog Breeds, Including Hypoallergenic Pups (goodhousekeeping.com)
- AKC Weekly Winners (akcwinners.com)
- Watch Dog Shows (akc.tv)
- 45+ Pomeranian Mix Breeds (alphapaw.com)
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/pomeranian (petmd.com)
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