The Pomeranian is a small, fluffy dog breed that originated in Germany and was originally bred to be a working dog, specifically a sled dog. They were later bred as a companion dog.
They typically weigh between 3-7 pounds and stand about 6-11 inches tall at the shoulder. Pomeranians have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
These tiny dogs are known for their big eyes and cute faces, but they're also intelligent and active, requiring regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They're a great choice for city dwellers or families with small children, as they're adaptable and easy-going.
Physical Characteristics
Pomeranians are small dogs, typically weighing between 3.0-7.0 pounds and standing 8-14 inches tall at the withers.
Their compact but sturdy build is complemented by an abundant textured coat, which includes a highly plumed tail set high and flat. The top coat forms a distinctive ruff of fur on the neck, and they also have a fringe of feathery hair on the hindquarters.
Pomeranians come in a wide variety of colors, including white, black, brown, red, orange, cream, blue, sable, black and tan, brown and tan, spotted, brindle, parti, and blue Merle, plus combinations of those colors.
Here are some of the most common colors of Pomeranians:
- Cream-colored Pomeranian
- Orange sable Pomeranian
- Tri-colored Pomeranian
- Red Sable Pomeranian
- Black Pomeranian
- White Pomeranian
- Black and tan Pomeranian
- Chocolate Pomeranian
Appearance
Pomeranians are small dogs that weigh between 3.0-7.0 pounds and stand 8-14 inches high at the withers.
Their compact but sturdy build is complemented by 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, and they also have a fringe of feathery hair on the hindquarters.
Pomeranians come in a wide variety of colors, including white, black, brown, red, orange, cream, blue, sable, black and tan, brown and tan, spotted, brindle, parti, and blue Merle, plus combinations of those colors. The most common colors are orange, black, and cream/white.
Additional reading: Colours of Pomeranian Dog
Here are some of the most common colors of Pomeranians:
- Cream-colored Pomeranian
- Orange sable Pomeranian
- Tri-colored Pomeranian
- Red Sable Pomeranian
- Black Pomeranian
- White Pomeranian
- Black and tan Pomeranian
- Chocolate Pomeranian
Pomeranians have dark, almond-shaped eyes and alert ears set high on their fox-like head. Their expressive and feathery tail spreads over the back of their double coat.
Their ears are small, erect, and sit high on the head.
Size
Pomeranians are 7 to 12 inches tall and weigh 3 to 7 pounds.
Their size can vary, with some litters having puppies that grow to be 12 to 14 pounds or more.
These larger puppies can be a great choice for families with children.
Their compact size makes them a perfect companion for apartment dwellers and those who live in small spaces.
Behaviour
Pomeranians are naturally alert and aware of their surroundings, which can sometimes lead to excessive barking at new stimuli.
A UK study found that Pomeranians have a life expectancy of 12.2 years on average.
They can be somewhat defensive of their territory, leading to barking at outside noises, so it's essential to socialize them well.
Intriguing read: Pomeranian Dog Barking
Pomeranians are one of the breeds with the smallest average litter size, with between 1.9 and 2.7 puppies per litter.
Teaching them to stop barking on command is crucial, as they can go on barking all day long if not trained properly.
Pomeranians are generally compatible with other animals, including cats and other dogs, but they can sometimes think they're bigger than they are.
Their small size can make them a target for bigger dogs, so it's essential to teach them to respect their boundaries.
Early socialization is key to ensuring your Pomeranian grows up to be a well-rounded dog, and enrolling them in puppy kindergarten is a great place to start.
Inviting visitors over regularly and taking them to busy parks and stores can also help them develop their social skills.
Health
Pomeranians are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues.
One of the most common health problems in Pomeranians is patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and limping.
Additional reading: Pomeranian Dog Health Issues
Some Pomeranians may experience collapsing trachea, which can lead to coughing, difficulty breathing, and exercise intolerance.
Hypothyroidism is another common issue, causing weight gain, lethargy, and a thin coat.
Pomeranians are also at risk for hypoglycemia, a condition where their blood sugar levels drop too low, causing weakness, sleepiness, and trembling.
Hip issues, such as Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and hip dysplasia, can also affect Pomeranians, leading to arthritis and mobility problems.
Eye problems, including cataracts and entropion, can occur in Pomeranians, and may require surgical treatment.
Merle-colored Pomeranians may be more prone to deafness, blindness, and other health issues.
Cryptorchidism, a condition where one or both testicles fail to descend, is common in male Pomeranians and can be treated with surgery.
Obesity is a significant issue in Pomeranians, with 54.6% of those attending veterinary clinics in China being overweight.
To keep your Pomeranian healthy, it's essential to feed them a nutritionally balanced diet, and to monitor their weight closely.
Here are some common health issues in Pomeranians:
- Patellar luxation
- Collapsing trachea
- Hypothyroidism
- Hypoglycemia
- Hip issues (Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and hip dysplasia)
- Eye problems (cataracts and entropion)
- Cryptorchidism
- Obesity
To prevent hypoglycemia, it's recommended to feed your Pomeranian at least three times a day, and to ensure they always have access to fresh water.
Care and Maintenance
Pomeranians need consistent training and regular exercise to be happy, healthy dogs. Their thick coat also requires a fair amount of upkeep. Plus, owners must be cautious about Pomeranians in hot weather, as well as with predators and any rough encounters with people or other pets.
Pomeranians are remarkably hearty and enjoy longer walks, but always keep in mind that they are small and sensitive to heat. They love to play and can get bored easily, so be sure to give them lots of toys and rotate them frequently so there's always something new.
Pomeranians have a short attention span, so keep training sessions brief and fun. Reward your Pom with praise, treats, or play whenever he correctly performs a command or does something else you like.
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Care and Maintenance
Pomeranians need consistent training and regular exercise to be happy, healthy dogs.
Their thick coat requires a fair amount of upkeep, including weekly brushing to remove loose fur and prevent tangles and mats.
A bath with a thorough brushing is required roughly every four to six weeks, and you should also clean their ears and express their anal glands at this time.
You'll need to check their eyes daily and use canine eye wash to cleanse the area due to their tendency to tear excessively.
Trimming their nails roughly every four to six weeks is essential, especially if you hear them clicking on hard surfaces.
Daily tooth brushing is ideal, but brushing their teeth a few times a week is also recommended to prevent dental issues.
A complete Pomeranian grooming package, which should be done every four to six weeks, includes bathing, brushing, a haircut (as needed), cleaning the teeth, ears, and anal glands, as well as clipping the nails.
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Care
Pomeranians need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, so aim for at least one hour of physical activity per day, including walks and playtime.
Their thick coat requires a fair amount of upkeep, so be prepared to brush them regularly.
Pomeranians are active indoors, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers, and they enjoy several short daily walks or playtimes.
They have a moderate activity level, but can get bored easily, so give them plenty of toys and rotate them frequently.
Pomeranians love to learn new things and enjoy being the center of attention, so teaching them tricks is a great way to bond with them.
Keep training sessions brief and fun, and reward your Pom with praise, treats, or play whenever they correctly perform a command.
Pomeranians have a short attention span, so don't expect them to sit still for long periods of time.
They're super smart and can learn to navigate puzzle toys, providing mental stimulation.
Pomeranians have really short legs, but they still need regular exercise to stay healthy.
In hot weather, keep outside activity to short sessions to prevent overheating.
Protect your Pom from predators, including large birds, when outside.
A nice 20-minute walk a couple of times a day should be enough exercise for your Pomeranian.
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Feeding
Feeding your Pomeranian requires attention to their individual needs, as they can vary greatly depending on size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.
A highly active Pomeranian will need more food than a less active one.
The recommended daily amount is 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food, divided into two meals.
The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference, with better food going further in nourishing your dog and reducing the amount needed.
For example, a highly active Pomeranian will require more food than a couch potato dog.
History and Origins
The Pomeranian is a breed with a rich history that dates back to the spitz-type sled dogs from Iceland and Lapland. These dogs made their way to Pomerania, located in what is now Poland and Germany.
The breed's popularity rose when members of the British royal family took a liking to the small dogs. Queen Victoria became a breeder and won a dog show with a particularly small Pomeranian, which led to the breed being bred even smaller.
The Pomeranian is related to other breeds such as the Samoyed, Norwegian elkhound, and keeshond. They are also known for their pointy ears, thick coats, and big tails that curve along the back.
The first recorded reference to the Pomeranian breed was in 1764, in a diary entry by James Boswell. The breed was named after the region of Pomerania in northern Poland and Germany.
Queen Charlotte, Queen-consort of King George III of Great Britain, brought two Pomeranians to England in 1767. These dogs were depicted in paintings by Sir Thomas Gainsborough, showing a dog larger than the modern breed.
The size of the Pomeranian breed decreased significantly during Queen Victoria's lifetime, with some reports suggesting a 50% reduction. She worked to improve and promote the breed by importing smaller Pomeranians from various European countries.
The first breed club was set up in England in 1891, and the first breed standard was written shortly afterwards. The Pomeranian was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888.
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Ownership and Adoption
Pomeranians can be quite pricey, with prices ranging from $1,000 to over $5,000, depending on factors like age and bloodline.
If you're looking to bring a Pomeranian into your life, consider visiting your local animal shelter or checking out breed-specific rescue groups. These organizations often have dogs in need of a loving home.
You can also reach out to reputable breeders through organizations like the American Pomeranian Club or Pom Squad Rescue.
Adopt or Buy a Pet
If you're considering bringing a Pomeranian into your life, you'll want to know the costs involved. Expect to pay around $1,000 or more for a puppy, though this price can vary widely for older dogs and adoptable dogs.
Dogs from champion bloodlines can cost upwards of $3,000 to $5,000, so it's essential to factor that into your budget.
If you're not set on buying a Pomeranian from a breeder, you can also consider adopting from a local animal shelter or breed-specific rescue group. Be prepared to devote time and energy to training and caring for a dog that can sometimes be stubborn and vocal.
For help locating a reputable breeder or rescue, check out the following organizations:
- American Pomeranian Club
- Pomeranian Rescue
- Pom Squad Rescue
Children and Pets
Always supervise interactions between dogs and young children to prevent biting or ear or tail pulling.
Pomeranians can get along great with cats and other animals, especially if they're raised with them, but protect them from bigger dogs.
No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child.
Teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and never approach a dog while he's eating or try to take the dog's food away.
The Pomeranian is a small dog that can be easily injured if accidentally dropped or stepped on by a child.
Training
Pomeranians are moderately trainable dogs, so consistency and patience are essential when training a Pom. They can be stubborn, but with early training and socialization, they'll learn quickly.
Begin training and socialization early in puppyhood, so your dog doesn't develop bad habits that are hard to break. Work on housetraining right away to prevent accidents.
Pomeranians can coexist with other household pets when given proper training and socialization. However, they won't back down from a fight, even with a larger dog, so it's crucial to socialize them well.
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Sign your Pomeranian puppy up for obedience training to teach them basic commands like sit, stay, and speak. A small-dog leash and halter are also essential for safe walks.
Housebreaking is another important part of Pomeranian training, but accidents can happen, especially with tiny pups. Training pads are a good solution for inside accidents, and the Pet Parents washable dog pee pads are a great option.
Preventing jumping is crucial to avoid injured joints or broken bones. Teach your Pomeranian the "off" or "down" command to prevent them from jumping onto chairs, couches, and beds.
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Popularity and Pros/Cons
The popularity of Pomeranians has been a topic of interest in recent years. In the United States, they have consistently ranked in the top 20 of registered American Kennel Club dog breeds since 1998, with a high of #10 that year.
However, their popularity has seen a decline in some countries. In Australia, their registration numbers have decreased since 1986, with a peak of 1,128 Pomeranians registered in 1987. In the UK, they were not even listed in the top 20 breeds in either 2007 or 2008.
Despite their potential downsides, Pomeranians do have some great qualities. They can adapt well to small homes, making them a great choice for city dwellers. They're also good guard dogs, loyal, and lively, which are all wonderful traits for any dog owner.
Popularity
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 at least 1998.
In 1998, it was ranked #10, and in 2011, it dropped to #17. The breed remained in the top twenty in 2012 and 2013, ranking at #19.
However, in 2015, the Pomeranian's popularity declined, falling to #21. By 2016 and 2017, it had dropped further to #22.
Interestingly, the Pomeranian's popularity in the UK is not as high, failing to make the top 20 breeds in 2007 and 2008.
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Pros of
If you're considering bringing a Pomeranian into your family, you'll be happy to know that they make great companions. Pomeranians are known for being good guard dogs, which is a surprising trait considering their small size.
Their adaptability to small homes is also a major advantage. They can thrive in even the tiniest of spaces, making them perfect for city dwellers or those with limited square footage.
Pomeranians are lively and loyal, which means they'll always be up for an adventure and will stick by your side through thick and thin.
Here are some key pros of owning a Pomeranian:
- Good guard dog
- Can adapt well to small homes
- Lively and loyal
Cons
Pomeranians may not be the best fit for every family, especially those with small children. They can be quite fragile and may not tolerate rough handling.
One of the biggest cons of Pomeranians is their sensitivity to heat. They can easily overheat in warm temperatures, so it's essential to keep them cool and comfortable.
Not only are Pomeranians sensitive to heat, but they're also not the best breed for small children. Their delicate nature and small size make them prone to injury.
Pomeranians can be quite stubborn at times, which can make training a bit challenging. They also tend to be loud, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Here are some key cons of Pomeranians to consider:
- Sensitive to heat
- Not the best for small children
- Can be stubborn and loud
Quick Facts and Overview
The Pomeranian is a small dog breed that originated in the Pomerania Region, which spans across Poland and Germany. They typically weigh between 3-7 pounds and stand 7-12 inches tall.
Their thick double coat comes in a variety of colors, including orange, black or brown markings, solid white, and black and tan. The White Pomeranian is the most commonly recognized color type, while the Black Pomeranian is considered rare.
Pomeranians are known for being intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs. They're also playful, which makes them a great companion for families.
In terms of exercise needs, Pomeranians require low to moderate physical activity. This means they don't need a lot of space to run around, but they still need regular walks and playtime.
Training is relatively easy for Pomeranians, especially when using positive reinforcement methods. They're known to be responsive to commands and can learn quickly.
Here's a quick rundown of some key health considerations for Pomeranians:
- Luxating patellas (kneecap problems)
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Pomeranian hypothyroidism
Pomeranians have an average lifespan of 12-16 years, making them a long-term companion. They're also a popular breed, ranking #18 in popularity in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the life expectancy of a Pomeranian dog?
A Pomeranian's life expectancy is typically 12 to 16 years with proper care, influenced by factors like genetics, diet, and environment. With the right conditions, your Pomeranian can live a long and healthy life.
Is Pomeranian a good dog?
Pomeranians make great family pets, especially for families with children, due to their affectionate and playful nature. However, they do require gentle handling and play to thrive.
What are Pomeranians known for?
Pomeranians are known for their bold and friendly personalities, often acting bigger than their small size. They require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Sources
- "FCI-Standard N° 97: German Spitz, Including Keeshond And Pomeranian" (archive.today)
- "Merle Gene" (genmarkag.com)
- "Pomeranian History" (premierpoms.com)
- related to (britannica.com)
- American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- a few common health conditions (ampomclub.org)
- Pom Squad Rescue (pomsquadrescue.com)
- Pomeranian Rescue (rescueme.org)
- American Pomeranian Club (ampomclub.org)
- Pomeranian Puppies For Sale (akc.org)
- Peace Love and Poms Rescue (rescuegroups.org)
- The American Pomeranian Club (ampomclub.org)
- Hypoglycemia (petmd.com)
- Hypothyroidism (petmd.com)
- "Merle Gene" (genmarkag.com)
- "Pomeranian History" (premierpoms.com)
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