Pomeranian Male Dog: A Comprehensive Guide to Ownership

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Posted Oct 12, 2024

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A Black and Tan Pomeranian Lying on a Cloth
Credit: pexels.com, A Black and Tan Pomeranian Lying on a Cloth

Owning a Pomeranian male dog can be a delightful experience, but it's essential to understand their unique characteristics and needs.

Pomeranians are a toy breed, weighing between 3-7 pounds and standing 6-11 inches tall. They have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming.

Pomeranians are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. They are also highly intelligent and can be trained with positive reinforcement.

With proper care and attention, a Pomeranian male dog can live up to 12-16 years, providing a loyal and loving companion for many years.

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Physical Characteristics

A 6-month-old Pomeranian puppy will be close to its full adult size, typically between 6 and 7 inches tall.

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

Their compact but sturdy build is accompanied by an abundant textured coat with a highly plumed tail set high and flat.

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Credit: youtube.com, All About the POMERANIAN - Characteristics and Care

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.

Their most common colors are orange, black, and cream/white.

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.

Behavior and Temperament

Pomeranian males are known for their happy-go-lucky nature, making them a great addition to many families.

They live for social interactions and love to make their owners laugh, which means they're perfect for families with kids. However, it's essential to teach children how to handle dogs gently, as Pomeranians can get accidentally dropped or held too tightly.

Pomeranians are generally not aggressive and aren't known to be biters, but they will snap if provoked.

Their intelligence is one of their best qualities, making them adept at picking up new tricks and excelling in obedience classes. They're also known to be rather compatible with other pets and children.

Credit: youtube.com, Male vs Female Pomeranians- 10 Differences Between Them

Their bouncy personality and proud gait may sometimes be described as cocky, but it's just a part of their charming nature.

Here are some key characteristics of Pomeranian behavior and temperament:

  • Alert and aware of changes in their environment
  • May bark excessively in any situation
  • Defensive of their territory and may bark at outside noises

Pros of

Pomeranians are known for their loyal nature, making them a great companion for many families. One of the standout traits of Pomeranians is that they can be quite effective as guard dogs, despite their small size.

Here are some of the key pros of Pomeranians' behavior and temperament:

  • Good guard dog
  • Can adapt well to small homes
  • Lively and loyal

Their adaptability to small homes is one of the reasons why Pomeranians make great pets for city dwellers. They require minimal space to roam around and can thrive in apartments or condos.

Behaviour

Pomeranians are alert and aware of changes in their environment, and barking at new stimuli can develop into a habit of barking excessively in any situation.

They're somewhat defensive of their territory and thus may bark when they hear outside noises. This is completely normal, but it's worth noting that Poms are generally not aggressive and won't bite unless provoked.

A fresh viewpoint: Pomeranian Dog Barking

Brown Pomeranian Puppy on White Pillow
Credit: pexels.com, Brown Pomeranian Puppy on White Pillow

A UK study found a life expectancy of 12.2 years for the Pomeranian, while a Japanese study of pet cemetery data found a life expectancy of 14 years. This is slightly lower than the average of 15.3 years for cross-breed dogs below 10kgs.

Pomeranians are one of the breeds with the smallest average litter size, with various sources giving numbers of between 1.9 and 2.7 puppies per litter.

Health and Care

Pomeranians are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most common health problems in Pomeranians is patellar luxation, which causes the kneecap to slip out of place, leading to pain and limping.

Regular veterinary appointments are crucial to catch any potential health issues early on. An experienced veterinarian can screen your Pomeranian puppy for any signs of disease and give you specific health and wellness recommendations.

Pomeranians are also prone to collapsing trachea, which can cause respiratory distress. Symptoms can range from a mild cough to severe breathing difficulties, and treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.

Credit: youtube.com, Ultimate Guide: 7 Health Tips for Pomeranian Parents!

To keep your Pomeranian healthy, it's essential to keep them fed on a regular schedule to prevent hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar. This can cause symptoms such as weakness, sleepiness, and trembling.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Pomeranians:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Collapsing trachea
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Hip issues (Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and hip dysplasia)
  • Eye problems (cataracts and entropion)
  • Hair loss (Severe Hair Loss Syndrome or Pomeranian alopecia)

Weight Chart

Pomeranians are one of the few dog breeds with no noticeable size difference between males and females.

To predict your puppy's full size, use the chart below, which shows the average weight of Pomeranians at different ages.

Average Weight at Different Ages:

Remember, all puppies grow at their own rate, so don't worry if your Pom is slightly behind or ahead of the estimates.

Dog Care

Pomeranians need consistent training and regular exercise to be happy, healthy dogs. This means setting aside time each day for play and physical activity.

A 20-minute walk a couple of times a day should do the trick, but be sure to watch your Pom like a hawk, as they can slip through holes in a fence or thick hedges.

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Credit: youtube.com, Insights into Dog health and wellness | Postpartum care of dogs

Regular exercise is the goal for your Pomeranian, and it's not unheard of for this breed to slip through holes in a fence or thick hedges or to scramble over short barriers.

In addition to physical activity, mental stimulation is also important for Poms. Puzzle toys can help provide the mental stimulation they need.

Pomeranians have a medium energy level that shouldn't be underestimated just because they're small. They should get at least one hour per day of physical activity, including walks and playing with toys.

To keep your Pom safe, always be aware of your surroundings, especially in fields or other large open areas. A leashed pet is safest, rather than one who roams free.

Here are some exercise tips for your Pomeranian:

Remember to also provide your Pom with plenty of rest and relaxation time, as they can get overwhelmed if over-exercised.

Grooming is also an essential part of Pomeranian care. Their thick coat requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles and mats.

Plan to brush your Pom's coat at least weekly, and more often during seasonal sheds. You'll also need to bathe your dog every one to four weeks, and brush their teeth a few times a week (if not daily).

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Credit: youtube.com, 7 TIPS to CARE for Your DOG'S HEALTH 🐶💚

A complete Pomeranian grooming package, which is highly recommended every four to six weeks, will include bathing, brushing, a haircut (as needed), cleaning the teeth, ears, and anal glands, as well as clipping the nails.

Don't forget to check your Pom's eyes daily and use canine eye wash to cleanse the area, as they can tear excessively. You'll also need to trim their nails roughly every four to six weeks.

History and Origins

The Pomeranian male dog has a rich history that's fascinating to learn about. The breed originated from spitz-type sled dogs from Iceland and Lapland, Finland, and made their way to Pomerania, a region in what is now Poland and Germany.

These early Pom predecessors were bred to be smaller in size, and over time, the breed evolved to become the smallest spitz-type dog breed we know today. The Pomeranian's popularity rose when members of the British royal family, including Queen Victoria, took a liking to the small dogs.

Credit: youtube.com, POMERANIAN HISTORY DEEPDIVE

Queen Victoria was instrumental in popularizing the breed, and her love for Poms led to the development of the tiny size we associate with Poms today. The breed was once a midsize dog weighing around 30 pounds, but Queen Victoria's influence changed that.

The Pomeranian gained recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1888, and the breed has been a popular companion dog ever since. Today, Pomeranians are known for their fluffy fur, pointy ears, and big tails that curve along their back.

Adopt/Buy Pets

If you're thinking of bringing a Pomeranian male dog into your life, you'll want to consider 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.

Pomeranians can be quite stubborn and vocal, so be sure you have the time and energy to devote to training and caring for one.

There are several options for acquiring a Pomeranian, including checking your local animal shelter and breed-specific rescue groups for dogs in need of homes.

If you're looking for a reputable breeder or rescue, consider reaching out to organizations such as the American Pomeranian Club, Pomeranian Rescue, or Pom Squad Rescue.

Here are some organizations that can help you locate a reputable breeder or rescue:

  • American Pomeranian Club
  • Pomeranian Rescue
  • Pom Squad Rescue

Training and Diet

Credit: youtube.com, How to Train Your Pomeranian | Best Pomeranian Puppy Training Tips

Consistency and patience are key when training a Pomeranian male dog. Pomeranians are moderately trainable dogs and can be stubborn at times, so it's essential to start training early in puppyhood.

Pomeranians can be injured during rough play, so make sure all household pets and people, especially young children, are well-mannered and gentle. They can also hurt themselves when jumping on and off furniture, so training them to use a ramp or teaching them to stay off furniture is crucial.

Pomeranians require a small amount of food compared to larger breeds and should be fed a nutritionally balanced quality dog food twice daily. However, they can do well eating at least three times a day to help prevent hypoglycemia.

Diet and Nutrition

Feeding your Pomeranian the right amount of food is crucial, as they require a small amount compared to larger breeds, and eating at least three times a day can help prevent hypoglycemia.

A Curious Pomeranian Puppy Looking Up
Credit: pexels.com, A Curious Pomeranian Puppy Looking Up

Make sure to discuss your dog's dietary needs with your veterinarian and consistently monitor their weight, as even a 1-pound fluctuation is significant for these little dogs.

Fresh water is essential, especially in hot weather and during exercise, so always ensure your Pomeranian has access to it.

Choose a complete and balanced chow, whether commercially prepared or homemade, and consider your Pom's age when selecting the right kibble, meaning puppy food for young dogs, adult food for adults, and senior diet for elderly Pomeranians.

Treats are a great way to reward good behavior, but be mindful of portion sizes to avoid an overweight Pom.

Some human foods are safe to share on occasion, but it's essential to learn which ones are safe and which ones to avoid.

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Training

Training a Pomeranian requires patience and consistency, as they can be stubborn at times. Consistency and patience are essential when training a Pom.

Start training and socialization early in puppyhood to help curb their tendency to bark at strangers. Begin with housetraining right away to prevent bad habits from forming.

Black and Brown Pomeranian Puppy
Credit: pexels.com, Black and Brown Pomeranian Puppy

Socialization with different people and environments is crucial to help your Pomeranian feel comfortable around others. Poms can coexist with other household pets when given proper training and socialization.

However, Pomeranians generally won't back down from a fight, even with a larger dog, so it's essential to make sure all household pets are well-mannered and gentle. This can help prevent injuries during rough play.

Jumping on and off furniture can also cause injuries, so it's essential to either train your Pomeranian to use a ramp or teach them to stay off furniture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a Pomeranian male dog?

A Pomeranian's lifespan typically ranges from 12 to 16 years. With proper care, many Pomeranians live well into their teens.

How big do male Pomeranians get?

Male Pomeranians typically weigh between 3-7 pounds and stand 8-11 inches tall. This compact size makes them a perfect companion for city living or small homes.

Íris Nobre

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Íris Nobre is a detail-driven professional with a passion for language and storytelling. With a keen eye for grammar and syntax, she has honed her skills as a Copy Editor through extensive experience in publishing and media. Iris brings a unique blend of creativity and precision to every project she undertakes, ensuring that written content is not only error-free but also engaging and effective.