Pomeranian

ATTRIBUTES: Inquisitive, Lively, Bold

GROUP: Toy Group

ACIVITY LEVEL: Regular Exercise

BARKING LEVEL: Likes To Be Vocal

COAT TYPE: Double

COAT LENGTH: Long

SHADDING: Seasonal

SIZE: XSmall

TRAINABILITY: Agreeable

CHARACTERISTIC: Smallest Dog Breeds

Breed Overview

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Ancestry

Norwegian elkhound, German Spitz, Samoyed, America

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Origin

German

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Registration

1888

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Size

6 - 7 Inches

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Weight

3 - 7 Pounds

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Expected Life

12 - 16 Years

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY +
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
LOVE WITH CHILDREN +
Unwise
Good With Children
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS +
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
+
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
+
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
+
COAT TYPE
+
COAT LENGTH
+
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
+
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
+
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
+
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
+
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
+
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
+
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
+
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Loaf
Needs an Activity
+
COLORS
+
PATTERNS
+
CARING WITH FAMILY
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is likely to exhibit towards family members and familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner while other breeds tend to treat everyone they know as their closest friends.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN
Unwise
Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior along with its overall family-friendly nature is an important consideration. It is crucial to always supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS
Unwise
Good With Other Dogs
The level of general friendliness a breed displays towards other dogs can vary. While it is essential to always supervise interactions and introductions between dogs certain breeds have a higher likelihood of getting along well with other dogs both within their home environment and in public settings.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair a breed typically sheds is an important factor to consider. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing to manage the excess hair effectively. It's worth noting that these breeds are more likely to trigger allergies in individual’s sensitive to pet dander.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS
Monthly
Daily
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other forms of coat maintenance can vary between breeds. It's important to consider your available time, patience and budget when evaluating the grooming requirements of a particular breed. Regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds. Some breeds may require frequent bathing, while others can go for longer periods without needing a bath. Factors such as the dog's lifestyle, coat type and activity level can influence the recommended bathing schedule. Regular brushing is usually necessary to prevent mats, tangles and excessive shedding. Long-haired breeds typically require more frequent brushing to maintain their coat's health and appearance.
DROOLING INTENSITY
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
Considering how drool-prone a breed tends to be is important, particularly if you prioritize cleanliness. If you're someone who prefers a tidy environment and dislikes having ropes of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes breeds that are known to drool excessively may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Long
FRIENDLINESS
Reserved
Everyone Is My Best Friend
Considering how welcoming a breed tends to be towards strangers is an important factor when choosing a dog. It's important to note that different breeds have varying temperaments and behaviors when it comes to interacting with unfamiliar people. Certain breeds may be more reserved or cautious around strangers regardless of the location or situation. They may exhibit a natural instinct to be wary or protective, which can sometimes be mistaken as unfriendliness. These breeds may take some time to warm up and feel comfortable with new individuals.
LIVELINESS
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop
Considering a breed's inclination for playfulness, even beyond the age of puppyhood, is an important aspect when choosing a dog. Different breeds have varying levels of enthusiasm for play and interaction. Certain breeds tend to maintain their playful nature well into adulthood. They may continue to enjoy engaging in activities like tug-of-war, fetch or other interactive games for years. These breeds have a high energy level and typically require mental and physical stimulation through play to remain content.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY
What's Mine Is Yours
Vigilant
Considering a breed's tendency to alert you when strangers are nearby is an important aspect to consider when selecting a dog. Some breeds are naturally more vigilant and reactive to potential threats, whether it's the mailman or even a squirrel outside the window. These breeds have a strong instinct to alert their owners when they detect any perceived danger or unfamiliar presence. These alert breeds are likely to exhibit behaviors such as barking, growling or becoming more attentive when they sense strangers in their vicinity. Their keen awareness and protective instincts make them excel at being watchdogs.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY
Lives For Routine
Highly Adaptable
Considering a breed's adaptability to change is an important aspect to consider when choosing a dog. Some breeds are naturally more flexible and adaptable to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life, while others may be more sensitive or resistant to change. Breeds that are known for their adaptability tend to be more resilient and able to adjust to different environments making them more suitable for individuals or families who anticipate frequent changes. These breeds can handle new living conditions such as moving to a new home with relative ease. They are also often more tolerant of changes in noise levels or disruptions in their routine.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
Considering a breed's trainability and willingness to learn new things is crucial when choosing a dog. Different breeds exhibit varying levels of ease when it comes to training and their inclination to follow commands. Certain breeds are known for their high trainability and eagerness to please their owners. They are often quick to grasp new concepts and enjoy the training process. These breeds are motivated by making their owners proud and are usually more responsive to training techniques making the training experience smooth and rewarding for both the dog and owner.
STAMINA LEVEL
Couch Potato
High Energy
Considering the amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires is essential when choosing a dog. Different breeds have varying levels of energy, and understanding their needs can help ensure a harmonious match with your lifestyle and preferences. High-energy breeds are typically ready for action and eagerly seek their next adventure. They thrive on activities that engage their physical and mental abilities, such as running, jumping, and playing. These breeds benefit from regular exercise and mental stimulation to expend their energy and prevent boredom-related behaviors. Keeping them active throughout the day is crucial to their well-being and overall satisfaction.
VOCALIZATION
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
Likes To Be Vocal
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
Providing appropriate mental stimulation for these breeds is essential in order to maintain their mental health and prevent boredom-related issues. This can be achieved through various means, including puzzle toys, interactive games, obedience training, scent work or engaging in specific tasks suited to their breed's abilities and instincts.
COLORS

Description

Registration Code

Blue Merle

050

Blue Brindle

056

Chocolate Merle

496

Blue Sable

481

Black

007

Black & Tan

018

Blue

037

Blue & Tan

044

Chocolate

071

Chocolate & Tan

072

Cream

076

Cream Sable

348

Orange

133

Orange Sable

137

Red

140

Red Sable

155

Beaver

349

Brindle

057

Chocolate Sable

350

White

199

Wolf Sable

230

Beaver Sable

519

Tri-Colored

380

Black & Brindle

008

PATTERNS

Description

Registration Code

Parti-Color

038

Mask

128

White Markings

014

Tan Markings

012

Brindle

051

Irish Marked

115

Tri Color Markings

024

Sable

026

Merle Markings

035

About The Breed

The Pomeranian a tiny breed adored by both royals and commoners throughout history, is often hailed as the perfect companion. With its magnificent coat, cheerful and foxlike face and lively personality, the Pomeranian has earned its place as one of the most popular toy breeds worldwide. Despite its small size, typically weighing no more than seven pounds, the Pomeranian carries itself with a confident and commanding demeanor resembling that of a much larger dog. Its abundant double coat, which extends over the chest and shoulders in a beautiful frill, can be found in nearly twenty different colors, along with various patterns and markings, although orange or red are the most prevalent.

Highly alert and intelligent, Pomeranians are easily trainable and excel as vigilant watchdogs. They also make lively and affectionate companions for families with older children who can distinguish between a toy dog and a toy. While they are active by nature, Pomeranians can adapt to indoor play and short walks for their exercise needs, making them content in both urban and suburban environments. They quickly learn tricks and enjoy engaging in games although their true delight lies in providing laughter and companionship to their devoted human companions. 

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A POMERANIAN 

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Pomeranian: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

Health

+

Pomeranians are known to be healthy small dogs, and reputable breeders take measures to screen their breeding stock for various health conditions. These include luxating patellas (dislocated kneecaps) hypothyroidism, collapsing tracheas, congestive heart failure, seizures and alopecia X (commonly known as black skin disease). Responsible breeders often participate in health screening programs and may provide documentation of these tests. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) maintains a public database where health-screening information can be found. It is recommended to request copies of OFA results for the parents of the litter when considering a Pomeranian puppy from a breeder. By reviewing health screening results prospective owners can gain valuable information about the genetic health of the puppy's parents. This helps ensure that responsible breeding practices are followed increasing the likelihood of obtaining a healthy and well-cared-for puppy.

Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

  • Patella Evaluation

  • Cardiac Exam

  • Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Health

Grooming

+
The Pomeranian's abundant double coat is a notable characteristic that requires regular attention to maintain its beauty. To prevent matting it is necessary to brush the dog's coat thoroughly down to the skin at least once a week, utilizing both a pin brush and a slicker brush. This ensures that the hair remains tangle-free and well-groomed. Considering Pomeranians' active nature it is crucial to keep their nails trimmed to a suitable length. It is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional groomer for a complete grooming session every four to six weeks. This involves bathing, brushing attending to the ears trimming the nails and expressing the anal glands. If you are not confident in performing these tasks at home relying on a groomer's expertise is highly advised.
Health

Exercise

+
Despite their love for being lapdogs and family companions Pomeranians can greatly benefit from regular exercise and enjoy opportunities to run, play and go for walks. However, it is crucial to closely supervise your Pom when they are outdoors. Pomeranians have a tendency to squeeze through small gaps or crevices in fencing, and they may even attempt to climb over low fences. Ensuring their safety requires vigilant observation and appropriate containment measures. Due to their small size Pomeranians can sometimes be mistaken for prey such as rabbits or squirrels by larger predatory birds like hawks and owls. To prevent any unfortunate incidents it is essential to keep your Pom under cover or closely monitor them when outside.
Health

Training

+
Early training for leash walking and recall commands is essential for Pomeranians, ensuring that they can be controlled and guided effectively. Housebreaking may require consistent effort and patience, but with dedication, it can be achieved successfully. It is crucial to prevent Pomeranians from jumping on and off furniture such as couches or beds as this behavior can lead to joint injuries or even fractures. Care should be taken to provide alternative and safe areas for them to rest. Pomeranians are known for their alertness and high intelligence, which makes them capable of excelling in various canine activities. They can thrive and enjoy participating in agility, rally obedience competitions or even working as therapy dogs. Engaging them in these activities not only stimulates their intellect but also nurtures their natural abilities. By investing time and effort into consistent training, preventing jumping behavior and providing mental and physical stimulation, you can help your Pomeranian develop into a well-trained and fulfilled companion.
Health

Nutrition

+
To ensure the Pomeranian's well-being and nutrition, it is recommended to provide a high-quality dog food that can be commercially manufactured or home-prepared under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. The chosen diet should be suitable for the dog's specific life stage, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. As some Pomeranians have a tendency to gain weight, it is important to monitor their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight level. Treats can be useful for training purposes, but it's crucial to avoid excessive indulgence to prevent obesity. Familiarize yourself with safe human foods for dogs and be aware of foods that can be harmful. If there are any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet consulting with a veterinarian is recommended. Clean and fresh water should always be available for your Pomeranian to ensure proper hydration. Water should be accessible at all times to meet your dog's needs. It's worth noting that Pointers can be prone to weight gain, so it is important to monitor their calorie intake and weight level. It is advisable to be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overfeeding to maintain a healthy body condition. Treats can be valuable for training purposes, but it's crucial not to overindulge as excessive treat consumption can lead to obesity. Familiarize yourself with which human foods are safe for dogs and those that should be avoided to prevent any potential health risks.

Historiography

The Pomeranian a smaller version of the robust spitz-type sled dogs found in the Arctic has its origins connected to Pomerania, an area in northeastern Europe now encompassing parts of Poland and western Germany. Many years ago, the Pomeranian's ancestors were selectively bred down in size from their larger and more substantial relatives in that region. Recognized as the Zwergspitz in some countries the Pomeranian holds the distinction of being the smallest among the spitz breeds. Their graceful appearance and dignified posture have often earned them the reputation of being "fit for a queen," and this perception holds true. The breed owes much of its popularity to Queen Victoria, who developed an affection for Pomeranians during her visit to Florence, Italy. When Queen Victoria returned to Britain, she brought Pomeranians with her, solidifying the breed's reputation.

Queen Victoria became a dedicated breeder and exhibitor of Pomeranians, showcasing six of her own breeding at the prestigious Crufts dog show in 1891. One of her beloved Poms Windsor Marco, claimed the top spot in the breed category. Victoria's influence is credited with reducing the Pomeranian's size from approximately 30 pounds to their current toy stature. In 1901, as the elderly queen lay on her deathbed, her cherished Pom named Turi remained faithfully at the foot of her bed, providing companionship and comfort. Other historical figures known for their refined taste in Pomeranians include Marie Antoinette, Emile Zola, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. These individuals, recognized for their refined sensibilities also found delight in the company of these captivating dogs.

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