Pomeranian Dog Health Problems: A Comprehensive Guide to Health Issues

Pomeranian dogs are prone to a range of health problems due to their small size and genetic predisposition.

One of the most common health issues affecting Pomeranians is Patellar Luxation, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be caused by a shallow patellar groove or a genetic defect.

Pomeranians are also susceptible to dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, due to their small jaw size and crowded teeth.

Regular dental care is essential to prevent these issues, and owners should brush their Pomeranian's teeth daily to prevent tartar buildup.

A unique perspective: Dog Dental Health Month

Pomeranians are prone to certain health issues, and it's essential to be aware of them to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Some common health problems in Pomeranians include tracheal collapse, patella luxation, and severe hair loss syndrome.

A Pomeranian's health can be affected by a range of factors, including genetics, diet, and environment. For instance, a poor diet can lead to tartar build-up, bad breath, and red gums, as well as hair loss and dull coat.

Consider reading: Pomeranian Dog Diet

Some signs that your Pomeranian may need veterinary help include changes in appetite or water consumption, itchy skin, lethargy, and fearfulness. These symptoms can be indicative of serious diseases, so it's crucial to monitor your dog's behavior and seek professional advice if you notice any abnormalities.

Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

Pomeranians are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, just like all dogs.

These infections can be serious, so it's essential to be aware of the risks. Parvo, rabies, and distemper are just a few examples of the infections Pomeranians can get.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination. We'll recommend a vaccination schedule based on your dog's age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors.

For your interest: Dog Ate Just One Bite Rat Poison

Pomeranians are prone to certain genetic health issues that can affect their overall well-being. These issues are often identified through health testing.

Eye Examination by an Ophthalmologist is a crucial test to identify eye problems in Pomeranians. This test can help detect potential eye issues early on.

For more insights, see: Canine Diabetes Test

Patellar Luxation is a common health issue in Pomeranians, where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be painful for your dog and may require surgery.

Hypothyroidism is another genetic health issue that can affect Pomeranians. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones.

Here are some common genetic health issues in Pomeranians:

Treatment is a crucial aspect of maintaining your Pomeranian's health. Your vet will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your dog's specific needs.

If your Pomeranian is diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, your vet will likely prescribe thyroxin. This condition can't be cured, but treatment can help manage low thyroid function.

To help your dog, your vet may recommend a combination of FDA-approved drugs, including THYRO-TABS CANINE and TyroKare. These medications can help regulate your dog's thyroid levels.

A well-balanced diet is also essential for managing hypothyroidism. Your vet may suggest feeding your Pomeranian rice-based food and premium lamb, and supplementing with a multivitamin/mineral Pet-Tabs Plus supplement.

In addition to diet and medication, your vet may recommend other supplements to help manage your Pomeranian's condition. These may include ginger concentrate extract, green supplements like Phyto-Derm or spirulina, and Ultra Omega-Linic soft gels.

Regular exercise and exposure to natural light are also crucial for maintaining your Pomeranian's health. Your vet may recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise and 12 hours of natural light exposure per day.

Here are some specific supplements your vet may recommend:

It's essential to work closely with your vet to develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your Pomeranian's specific needs. By following their recommendations and making lifestyle changes, you can help your dog live a happy and healthy life.

If your Pomeranian's quality of life isn't what it should be, extra diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the extent of their condition. These tests can help identify liver shunts, hydrocephalus, and other serious health issues.

An MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, portography, or exploratory surgery are the only definitive methods to diagnose a liver shunt. However, these tests should only be done if your pet's symptoms are severe or their quality of life is deteriorating.

If your pet is experiencing symptoms in their central nervous system or isn't thriving normally, these diagnostic tests will need to be done. Surgery is often the ideal choice for liver shunts, but intra-hepatic shunts have a poorer prognosis than extra-hepatic shunts.

Here are some diagnostic tests that may be performed to confirm hydrocephalus:

These tests can help determine the best course of action for your pet's treatment.

Diagnosis is a crucial step in determining the health of your Pomeranian. A vet will need to do blood tests and a complete examination before diagnosing hyperthyroidism, as other canine diseases can cause similar symptoms.

Blood tests can help diagnose a liver shunt in puppies, which is a condition that affects blood flow to the liver. A low blood-urea-nitrogen (BUN) level, low albumin, and elevated liver enzymes like AST and ALT can all be indicators of a liver shunt. A liver function test called bile acids is the best blood test to diagnose this condition.

For your interest: Yorkshire Terrier Pooping Blood

If your puppy has an open fontanel and exhibits symptoms like lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping, take him to the vet. Various scans like an ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, and EEG can also be performed to confirm hydrocephalus.

Here are some signs that may indicate your Pomeranian needs veterinary help:

As a Pomeranian owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your furry friend. One of the most critical things you can do is to monitor your Pomeranian's behavior and physical condition closely.

Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The key is to know when to seek veterinary help and how urgently.

Changes in appetite or water consumption can be a sign that something is wrong. If your Pomeranian is eating more or less than usual, or drinking more water than usual, it could be a sign of an underlying issue.

Curious to learn more? Check out: My Female Dog Licking Her Privates More than Usual

Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth are all signs of dental problems that need to be addressed. Regular dental care is crucial to prevent these issues from becoming more serious.

Itchy skin, hair loss, scratching, chewing, or licking can be caused by allergies or skin infections. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to take your Pomeranian to the vet.

Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping can be a sign of an underlying medical issue. If your Pomeranian is acting lethargic or seems to be in a daze, it's time to seek veterinary help.

Here are some common signs that your Pomeranian needs veterinary attention:

By being aware of these potential health issues and knowing when to seek veterinary help, you can ensure your Pomeranian stays happy and healthy.

Eye problems can have a significant impact on your Pomeranian's quality of life. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Poms, and can be caused by the lenses of their eyes becoming more opaque.

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This can be extremely irritating and painful, and can ultimately lead to blindness if left untreated.

Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and Pomeranians are more likely to develop it than other breeds.

Here are some common symptoms of cataracts in Pomeranians:

If you suspect your Pomeranian has cataracts, it's essential to take him to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Eye problems can have a significant impact on your Pomeranian's quality of life. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Poms, and we'll watch for the lenses of their eyes to become more opaque, or cloudy, during examinations.

Entropion is a painful condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea, the surface of the eyeball. This can happen in any dog breed, but Poms are especially at risk for this heritable disorder.

Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and Poms are more likely to develop this painful condition.

Cataracts can be removed through surgery, and many dogs adjust well to losing their vision. However, if left untreated, these conditions can cause chronic eye pain and even blindness.

Here are some common symptoms of cataracts in Pomeranians:

Reverse sneezing in Pomeranians can be a concerning issue, but it's often not a cause for alarm.

Pomeranians may experience reverse sneezing due to an irritated larynx or palate area, which can cause muscular spasms in the pharynx.

It's essential to recognize the signs of reverse sneezing, such as snorting, hacking, or honking noises, and understand that it's usually a result of excitement or physical activity.

Pomeranians may also reverse sneeze after eating, drinking water, or engaging in strenuous activities like running or pulling hard on the leash.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Can a Bug Bite Cause a Lump on a Dog

If your Pomeranian is experiencing frequent reverse sneezing episodes, it's crucial to consult with your vet, as they may prescribe antihistamines or antibiotics to help manage the issue.

In most cases, reverse sneezing is not a sign of a severe underlying condition, but it's always better to err on the side of caution and consult with a veterinarian if you're unsure.

Pomeranians are prone to various bone and joint issues, and it's essential to be aware of these potential problems to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy.

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition in Poms, caused by a jelly-like cushion between vertebrae slipping or rupturing, which can lead to severe pain and even paralysis. If your dog suddenly can't jump or go up stairs, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Patellar luxation is another common issue, where the kneecap slips out of place, causing your dog to pick up a back leg or skip and hop for a few strides before kicking it back into place. Mild cases may only require arthritis medication, but severe cases may need surgery to realign the kneecap.

A different take: How Common Is Pyometra in Dogs

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease is a condition that affects small dogs, including Pomeranians, between 4 to 12 months of age, causing loss of blood supply to the joint, resulting in lameness and wasting of the affected leg. Early signs include pain when extending the hip joint, a severe limp, and refusal to use or put weight on the affected leg.

To prevent or alleviate these issues, it's crucial to maintain a healthy weight, provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on, and avoid stressing their back by jumping on and off furniture. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can also help prevent or manage these conditions.

Here are some common signs of bone and joint issues in Pomeranians:

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Respiratory Issues are a concern for Pomeranian owners. Tracheal Collapse is a common issue, where the cartilage rings in the trachea are weak or incorrectly formed, causing it to collapse and become too narrow, leading to coughing or difficulty breathing.

Symptoms of tracheal collapse include a wheezing sound while breathing, and Pomeranians may make honking or cough-like sounds, similar to a cat regurgitating a hairball. Medication can reduce the symptoms, but severe cases may require surgical treatment.

Pomeranian Reverse Sneezing, also known as Pharyngeal Gag Reflex, is another respiratory issue that can occur when a dog has an irritating larynx or palate area, causing muscular spasms in the pharynx. This can be triggered by excitement, eating, drinking, or pulling on the leash, and can be stopped by softly massaging the throat or gently shutting the nostrils until the dog swallows.

The causes of Pomeranian Reverse Sneeze include nasal irritation, allergic reactions, and air irritants like perfume, smoke, and pollen. If the attacks happen frequently, your vet may prescribe antihistamines or antibiotics. It's essential to consult your vet if your Pomeranian experiences this problem, as it can be confused with more severe issues like collapsed trachea or heart disease.

Here are some common respiratory issues in Pomeranians:

It's crucial to address any respiratory issues promptly to prevent them from becoming severe. Always use a harness when walking your Pomeranian instead of a collar to reduce the risk of tracheal collapse.

Tracheal collapse is a common respiratory issue in Pomeranians. The trachea, or windpipe, is made up of rings of cartilage that can sometimes be weak or incorrectly formed in Poms.

These weak cartilage rings can cause the trachea to collapse and become too narrow, leading to coughing or difficulty breathing. This can be a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary treatment.

Pomeranians with tracheal collapse may make honking or cough-like sounds, similar to a cat regurgitating a hairball. An X-ray can diagnose the issue.

Symptoms of tracheal collapse include a wheezing sound while breathing. This can be a sign that the trachea is collapsing and needs medical attention.

Medication can help reduce the symptoms of tracheal collapse, but severe cases may require surgical treatment. The surgical procedure involves dividing the sternohyoideus muscles.

Pomeranian trachea problems can be deadly, so it's essential to seek immediate veterinary treatment if you suspect your Pom has tracheal collapse.

Suggestion: Hypoallergenic Dogs Pomeranian

Wheezing can be a concerning symptom in Pomeranians, and it's essential to investigate its cause. Pomeranian wheezing can indicate worms, heart disease, or hairballs.

Pomeranian puppies are especially prone to ingesting fur while nursing, which can lead to hairballs. This is a serious issue, as Pomeranian puppies have been known to die from hairballs.

If you notice your Pomeranian is wheezing, it's crucial to take action promptly. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop a plan to address it.

Intriguing read: Pomeranian Dog Puppies

Reverse sneezing in Pomeranians can be caused by an irritated larynx or palate area, leading to muscular spasms in the pharynx.

This irritation can cause your Pomeranian to make snorting, hacking, or honking noises as he inwardly gasps.

It's not uncommon for Pomeranians to experience reverse sneezing after eating food, lapping up water, while running, or if they're pulling hard on the leash.

Additionally, tooth root infections, nasal irritation, allergic reactions, and air irritants like perfume, smoke, and pollen can also trigger reverse sneezing.

Your Pomeranian may also experience reverse sneezing if they get too excited, which can lead to rapid, sudden, and forceful inhalation of air through their nose.

Here are some common triggers of reverse sneezing in Pomeranians:

If your Pomeranian experiences frequent or severe reverse sneezing episodes, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Pomeranians are prone to a variety of skin problems, including sebaceous adenitis, which causes dry, scaly skin with patches of hair loss along the top of the head, back of the neck, and back.

This condition typically develops when your dog is between one and five years of age. The response to treatment is highly variable, but you'll almost always need to give fatty acid supplements and use special shampoos to remove dead skin and hair.

Early detection is key, as the earlier the skin is checked out, the better the results.

On a similar theme: Shih Tzu Back Problems

Some Pomeranians may also experience alopecia X, or adrenal sex-hormone imbalance, which causes patchy hair loss and a fuzzy or woolly coat appearance on the sides of the body.

Neutering often resolves this condition, or it can sometimes be treated with the same medications used for Cushing's disease.

Responsible Pom breeders recommend not using affected individuals for breeding, as alopecia X is more of a cosmetic problem than a serious medical issue.

Here are some common skin and coat issues in Pomeranians:

These conditions can be treated with a combination of fatty acid supplements, special shampoos, and in some cases, medications.

Parasites can invade your Pom Pom's body, inside and out.

Fleas and ticks can infest her skin, while ear mites can infest her ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in various ways.

Drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito can all lead to parasite infestations.

Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone.

For your canine friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death.

It's essential to test for parasites on a regular basis to prevent health issues. We'll recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy.

Pomeranians are prone to a variety of skin problems, including sebaceous adenitis. This condition causes dry, scaly skin with patches of hair loss along the top of the head, back of the neck, and back.

Sebaceous adenitis typically develops when your dog is between one and five years of age. Treatment is generally long term and may involve a combination of approaches to determine what is most effective.

You'll almost always need to give fatty acid supplements and use special shampoos to remove dead skin and hair. The earlier the skin is checked out, the better the results.

Readers also liked: Pomeranian Dog Hair

Alopecia X, or adrenal sex-hormone imbalance, is another condition that causes patchy hair loss. It can also cause a fuzzy or woolly coat appearance on the sides of your dog's body.

Neutering often resolves this condition, or it can sometimes be treated with the same medications used for Cushing's disease. Alopecia X is more of a cosmetic problem than a serious medical issue.

Here's a list of the common skin conditions that affect Pomeranians:

Hypothyroidism is a common condition in Pomeranians where the body doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone.

Poms are prone to hypothyroidism, which can cause dry skin and coat, hair loss, and weight gain.

Signs of hypothyroidism can also include fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes.

Treatment for hypothyroidism is usually simple and involves replacement hormones given in the form of a pill.

We'll conduct a blood test annually to screen for this disease.

Hypothyroidism is a widespread disease among dogs, including Pomeranians, and can be caused by severe stress or trauma, insufficient iodine in the diet, autoimmune thyroiditis, nutritional deficiencies, insufficient light, or idiopathic atrophy.

A different take: Lyme Disease Vaccination for Dogs Side Effects

A vitamin E and kelp supplement can usually fix the issue of insufficient iodine in the diet.

Your vet might also recommend a hypoallergenic diet, thyroid medication, or a multivitamin & mineral supplement to help manage hypothyroidism.

Some medications used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism may cause the problem to occur.

Here are some FDA-approved drugs for treating hypothyroidism in Pomeranians:

A suitable diet, exercise, and daylight exposure can also help manage hypothyroidism in Pomeranians.

To help manage hypothyroidism, you can feed your Pomeranian rice-based food and premium lamb, and give them a multivitamin/mineral supplement, ginger concentrate extract, and a "green" supplement like Phyto-Derm or spirulina.

Exercise and daylight exposure are also crucial for managing hypothyroidism in Pomeranians.

At least 30 minutes of exercise every day and 12 hours of light exposure every day can help manage hypothyroidism in Pomeranians.

Cushing's Disease is a common health issue in Pomeranians, characterized by excessively high levels of cortisol, a hormone that helps your dog deal with stress and balance the immune system. This can lead to a weakened immune system, making your Pomeranian more susceptible to infections and diseases.

Prolonged high levels of cortisol can be caused by a tumor in your Pomeranian's pituitary gland, which is located at the bottom of the brain. Around 85% of dogs diagnosed with Cushing's have this type of tumor.

Symptoms of Cushing's Disease in Pomeranians include extreme thirst, panting, increased appetite, and a big "potbelly". Your Pomeranian may also experience lethargy, loss of hair, thinning skin, fragile skin that bruises easily, skin infections, infertility, reduction in muscle mass, obesity, and excessive fat around his shoulders and neck.

A blood test, specifically the LDDST (low-dose dexamethasone suppression test), can diagnose Cushing's Disease in your Pomeranian. This test checks cortisol levels and can provide information about your dog's overall health.

The good news is that tumors causing Cushing's Disease in Pomeranians are rare and usually benign, meaning they're not cancerous. However, it's essential to have your Pomeranian checked by a vet if you notice any unusual symptoms.

You might like: Dog Skin Odor