Pomeranian Adult Dog: Complete Breed Guide

The Pomeranian is a small but mighty breed, typically weighing between 3-7 pounds and standing 6-11 inches tall. They're known for their fluffy double coat, which sheds heavily and requires regular grooming.

Their compact size makes them a great fit for apartment living, but don't let their size fool you - they're still a lively and active breed that requires daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Pomeranians are small dogs weighing 1.36–3.17 kilograms (3.0–7.0 lb) and standing 8–14 inches (20–36 cm) high at the withers. They have an abundant textured coat with a highly plumed tail set high and flat.

The top coat forms a ruff of fur on the neck, which Poms are well known for. Their faces are often what draw people in - with bright eyes, a big smile and alert expression.

Pomeranians have a double coat, with short, thick fur below and an abundant coarse outer coat. Their ears are small, erect, and sit high on the head.

Here are some of the most common colors of Pomeranians:

Pomeranians have dark, almond-shaped eyes and a black nose, but can also have a "self-colored" nose in blue-gray, chocolate, and beaver breeds.

Pomeranians are small dogs, weighing between 3.0-7.0 pounds and standing 8-14 inches high at the withers.

Their compact but sturdy bodies are covered in an abundant textured coat, with a highly plumed tail set high and flat. A distinctive ruff of fur on the neck is a characteristic feature of the breed.

Pomeranians have a double coat, with short, thick fur below and an abundant coarse outer coat. Their fluffy fur can make them look like tiny lions.

Their most common colors are the red-oranges of a sunset, with orange, black, and cream/white being the most common colors in modern times. Orange and red-toned coats are the most common.

Here are some of the most common colors of Pomeranians:

Pomeranians have small, erect ears that sit high on the head, and dark, bright eyes that are medium-sized and almond-shaped. Their expressive and feathery tail spreads over the back of their double coat.

Pomeranians are tiny dogs with a big personality, and their bold and lively temperament is one of their most notable characteristics. They're quite vocal, which can be an issue for apartment or condo dwellers.

Their faces are often what draw people in - with bright eyes, a big smile and alert expression, these funny little fluff-balls are next-level cute. Pomeranians have a super thick double coat, which requires regular grooming.

They're highly social and affectionate with family, and may bond tightly with one person. Pomeranians are generally happy and social, making them an affectionate companion dog.

Their exercise needs are moderate, and they require regular playtime to keep them happy and healthy. Here are some key characteristics of Pomeranians at a glance:

Pomeranians are incredibly clever and alert dogs, boasting high levels of intelligence and being extremely loyal and protective.

Their natural extroversion makes them lively and playful, with a curiosity that makes them endlessly entertaining and joyful to be around.

They thrive off of play, exercise, and stimulation, and are very adaptable, able to live in various housing environments and with various owners.

Poms can be good with children, but it's essential to choose your pup carefully and ensure your kids are calm and gentle with them.

Small-dog syndrome can sneak in, leading to a sense of self-importance, stubbornness, and on a more extreme scale, extreme barking and a tendency for aggression.

Pomeranians are generally docile, but their friendly and inquisitive nature makes them live for social interactions and to make their pet parents laugh out loud.

They're not known to be biters, but any dog may snap if provoked, so it's crucial to teach children to handle dogs with care.

Poms are compatible with their extended family, including other dogs, cats, or children, and are known to be rather compatible with their owners.

With their competency and intelligence, Poms are adept at picking up fun new tricks and are likely to get good grades in obedience classes.

Their proud gait and bouncy personality can sometimes be described as cocky, but their generally positive temperament makes them worthy of top-dog status in many types of families.

Barking at new stimuli can develop into a habit of barking excessively in any situation, so it's essential to address this behavior early on.

Their life expectancy is around 12-14 years, which is lower than the average of 15.3 years for cross-breed dogs below 10kgs.

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The Pomeranian breed has a rich history that spans centuries. The breed is thought to have originated from the German Spitz, and its name is associated with the region of Pomerania, located in northern Poland and Germany along the Baltic Sea.

Pomeranians were initially larger in size, weighing up to 30-50 pounds, but were selectively bred to be smaller. This change in size was largely influenced by Queen Victoria, who was an enthusiast of the breed and established a large breeding kennel.

The first recorded reference to the Pomeranian breed dates back to 1764, in a diary entry by James Boswell. Two Pomeranians, named Phoebe and Mercury, were brought to England by Queen Charlotte in 1767 and were depicted in paintings by Sir Thomas Gainsborough.

Queen Victoria's favorite Pomeranian, named Marco, was a small red sable Pomeranian that weighed only 12 pounds. She exhibited Marco in 1891, which led to the popularity of the smaller-type Pomeranian.

Here's a brief timeline of the breed's history:

The Pomeranian's popularity rose when members of the British royal family took a liking to the small dogs. The breed was still larger than today's version, weighing around 30 pounds, but Queen Victoria's influence led to the breed being bred even smaller.

Pomeranians are generally healthy canines, but like any breed, they have some health problems related to their tiny bodies. Poms are prone to hypoglycemia, a sudden drop in blood sugar that can cause weakness and shaking, even leading to seizures. If your dog displays signs of hypoglycemia, you must seek medical assistance immediately.

Pomeranians can also be prone to eye issues, such as dry eye and tear duct issues, cataracts, and distichiasis, an unpleasant condition where the eyelashes grow inwards towards the eye. Regular eye check-ups with a veterinarian can help catch these issues early.

A healthy Pomeranian diet is crucial to prevent obesity and other health problems. Feeding your Pomeranian high-quality commercial dog food is best, and avoid table scraps, which can lead to unhealthy behaviors and negatively affect the dog's health. Monitor your dog's daily caloric intake, as they tend to gain weight easily, and adjust their food portions accordingly.

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Here are some common health issues in Pomeranians:

Pomeranians are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hypoglycemia is a common problem in small dogs, including Poms, and can cause weakness, shaking, and seizures.

Small dogs like Poms are also prone to eye issues, such as dry eye, tear duct problems, cataracts, and distichiasis. This is why it's essential to keep a close eye on your Pom's peepers to catch and treat these issues early.

Dental issues are another common problem in small dogs, including Poms. A small mouth can mean more teeth-overcrowding and displacement, which can lead to food and tartar buildup, causing longer-term issues.

Pomeranians can also be prone to collapsing trachea, a chronic condition that causes the trachea to narrow or collapse, leading to coughing, difficulty breathing, and exercise intolerance. If your Pom develops a "good honk" sounding cough, it's essential to seek medical attention.

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Hip dysplasia is another issue that can affect Poms, particularly if left untreated. This can lead to pain, arthritis, and other complications. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help manage this condition.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Poms, including:

It's essential to keep an eye out for these health issues and seek medical attention if you notice any symptoms. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Pomeranians are prone to weight gain, so it's crucial to monitor their daily caloric intake and adjust their food portions accordingly.

Feeding your Pomeranian high-quality commercial dog food is the best option, as it contains all the essential nutrients they need.

Table scraps are not a good idea, as they can lead to unhealthy behaviors and negatively affect your dog's health.

Puppies require a diet specifically designed for their age, which is typically higher in calories to support their growth and development.

Pomeranians should eat frequently, around 3-5 times a day, but this number should be gradually reduced after six months.

Adult dogs are typically fed twice a day, but it's essential to monitor their weight and adjust their diet accordingly.

A small amount of food is all your Pomeranian needs, compared to larger breeds, so be mindful of their portion sizes.

Consistently monitoring your pet's weight is crucial, as even a weight fluctuation of 1 pound is significant for these little dogs.

Fresh water should always be available for your Pomeranian, especially in hot weather and during exercise.

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Pomeranians require extensive care and grooming to stay clean and comfortable. Their long and dense coats can mat and trap dirt and bacteria if not regularly brushed.

Daily brushing is a must to prevent tangles and keep your Pom's coat looking its best. You can also schedule regular grooms with a professional to ensure a thorough level of care.

Poms are prone to dry skin, so it's essential to keep an eye on this issue to avoid itching and discomfort. Regular grooming and veterinary check-ups can help prevent this problem.

Long-haired breeds like Poms can develop eye-tearing and staining, which can be uncomfortable for your dog and lead to infection if not properly cared for. Keeping the hair around your dog's eyes well-trimmed and cleaning their eyes daily can help prevent this issue.

Pomeranians need consistent training and regular exercise to be happy and healthy dogs. Their thick coat also requires a fair amount of upkeep.

Poms can be sensitive to hot weather and may require extra care in this environment. They also need to be protected from predators and rough encounters with people or other pets.

Pomeranians are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new skills, making training a fun and rewarding experience. They're also active little dogs that can get their exercise in even in a small home.

Regular grooming is crucial for Pomeranians, with a weekly brushing required to remove loose fur and prevent tangles and mats. They may also require a sanitary shave around their genitals to prevent waste from sticking to their fur.

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Poms need a bath with a thorough brushing every four to six weeks, as well as regular cleaning of their ears and anal glands. You should also trim their nails every four to six weeks and brush their teeth daily to prevent dental issues.

A good Pomeranian haircut requires regular bathing and brushing, with a wire pin brush being ideal for their thick coat. A complete grooming package every four to six weeks, which includes bathing, brushing, and a haircut, is highly recommended.

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Pomeranians are perfect for individuals looking to add joy and energy to their lives. They make excellent companions for those who need a little extra motivation to get outside and stay active.

These dogs are always lively and full of personality, with a perpetual smile on their fox-like faces. They are constantly eager to play, run, and jump.

However, it's essential to understand that Pomeranians need regular walks and plenty of exercise. If you're more of a homebody or find it difficult to be physically active, this breed may not be the best choice.

Pomeranians are ideal for those who want a small dog not just for carrying around, but for training and playing with. They are well-suited to apartment living and adapt to various climates, from warm to cold.

Here are some key pros of owning a Pomeranian:

The Pomeranian has been a popular breed in the United States, consistently ranking in the top 20 of registered American Kennel Club dog breeds since 1998.

In 1998, the breed was ranked #10, and in 2011, it dropped to #17. The following year, it remained in the top twenty, ranking at #19 in 2012 and 2013.

The breed's popularity in the US has seen some fluctuations, with a ranking of #21 in 2015, followed by a drop to #22 in both 2016 and 2017.

In contrast, the Pomeranian's popularity in the UK has been relatively lower, with it not being listed in the top 20 breeds in 2007 or 2008.

The breed's popularity in Australia has also declined since 1986, with a peak of 1,128 registrations in 1987, but only 577 registrations in 2008, despite an increase from 2004 when only 491 dogs were registered.

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Pomeranians are perfect for individuals looking to add joy and energy to their lives. They make excellent companions for those who need a little extra motivation to get outside and stay active.

Pomeranians need regular walks and plenty of exercise. If you're more of a homebody or find it difficult to be physically active, this breed may not be the best choice.

A Pomeranian thrives in an environment where they can be on the move. They are constantly eager to play, run, and jump.

Pomeranians are well-suited to apartment living and adapt to various climates, from warm to cold. They are ideal for those who want a small dog not just for carrying around, but for training and playing with.

However, their beautiful coat requires regular grooming. This breed will bring charm and warmth to any home, especially in colder regions where many other small dogs might struggle.

Here are some key factors to consider when determining if a Pomeranian is the right fit for you: