Pomeranian

Appearance

Pomeranian
Pomeranian Quick Summary
Also Known AsPom
OriginGermany
SizeSmall
Height (at withers)7-12in (18-30.5cm)
Weight3-7lbs (1-3kg)
Hair Colour(s)Varies
Lifespan12-16 years
Energy LevelMedium
Litter size1-3
SheddingMedium
GroomingMedium
Barking TendencyHigh
Exercise requirementsLow
Ease of trainingHigh
Suitability for kidsMedium
Animal compatabilityLow
Aggression levelsMedium
Distress if leftHigh

The Pomeranian is a small, dainty and fragile looking dog. The body is short but surprisingly well-muscled, with straight legs and a tail that curls over the back. The wedge-shaped head has a fox-like face with small, high-set ears and oval eyes. The harsh coat is long and straight with a thick and fluffy undercoat. The colouring can vary but tends to include cream, sable, blue, red, orange, and brindle.

Temperament

Pomeranians are spirited and alert dogs that are small in size but huge in personality. Being natural showdogs, they enjoy parading and displaying their talents and can be quite entertaining. Outgoing and energetic, they enjoy being pampered just as much as they love to play. These loving and affectionate dogs thrive on companionship and affection, and make great companions and family pets. They are intelligent and quick to learn, which should make training easier, but they can also be confident and bossy and prone to excessive barking. However, they are still well suited to novice dog owners, as well as the more experienced. Pomeranians are only suited to older, more considerate children simply because of their small and fragile nature. Despite this, they will need proper introductions to other pets as they and may attack considerably larger dogs and may chase other larger animals. However, with proper socialisation they should enjoy playing with other pets. Their reaction to strangers will vary depending upon their individual personalities. Some will be friendly and welcoming, while others may be aloof and standoffish. Although too small to be guard dogs, they do make effective watch dogs and will bark to raise the alarm when required.

History & Skills

Pomeranians originate from Germany, and are named after the province of Pomerania. With a history stretching back to the 1700s, these tiny dogs were always bred as companion and show dogs. Introduced in Britain in the 1800s, they were once much larger before being reduced in size through selective breeding. These days they are mostly used as companions, family pets and show dogs.

Breed Specific Ailments

Pomeranians tend to live between 12-16 years, and some of the health concerns noted in this breed include cataracts, PRA, low blood sugar, entropion, luxating patella, PDA, collapsing trachea, and allergies. These dogs tend to have difficult births, as some females may require surgery save the puppies. Their teeth may require frequent cleaning to prevent tooth loss.

Grooming

Pomeranians are medium shedders and shed more heavily on a seasonal basis too, and so are not terribly suitable for allergy sufferers. Their grooming requirements are not high though, and the coat will need brushing around twice a week, and more frequently during heavier shedding periods. The coat may need occasional trimming too and bathing only when required. The teeth will require frequent cleaning to prevent tooth loss.

Exercise & Environment

Pomeranians tend to live indoors, require minimal exercise and are suitable for small homes such as apartments. They will be active while indoors, and although they can even do without a yard or garden, will prefer to have a good daily walk. If an outside area is provided it should be secure, because these dogs have inquisitive streaks and may tend to escape.