Pomeranian Dog Breed

About the Pomeranian

The Pomeranian, affectionately known as the “Pom” by its legion of admirers, is a spitz-type breed that presents the picture of a dog of very high style in a very small package. This diminutive canine is every bit as commanding as its larger Nordic cousins, with a vivacious and spirited nature that has endeared it to both royals and commoners for centuries. Renowned for its compact yet sturdy frame and fox-like expression, the colorful and cocky Pomeranian remains a popular choice as a companion for people who appreciate a dog that’s as spirited as it is splendid.

AKC Group

Toy

Height

6 – 7 inches

Weight

3 – 7 pounds

Lifespan

12 – 16 years

History of the Pomeranian

The Pomeranian, a spitz-type dog with a rich and storied history, has evolved significantly over the past two and a half centuries. The breed’s development began in Northern Europe’s Pomerania region, an area that now spans modern-day Poland and Germany. The dogs were originally sturdy working dogs used for herding sheep and protecting homes. Those early dogs were significantly larger than the contemporary Pom, sometimes weighing as much as 30 pounds.

The transformation of the Pomeranian into the diminutive and ornamental companion recognized today is a fascinating journey that parallels the interests of one of Europe’s royal monarchs. It was Queen Victoria of England who played a pivotal role in the breed’s development. During her reign, she fell in love with a smaller-sized Pomeranian named “Marco” while visiting Italy. Marco, weighing only 12 pounds, was significantly smaller than the Pomeranians of that era. Queen Victoria’s fondness for this dog, and her decision to bring him back to England, sparked a trend for smaller Pomeranians among British nobility, and subsequently, around the world.

This royal influence led to a focused breeding effort to reduce the size of the Pomeranian while enhancing its distinctive features, such as the breed’s luxurious coat and spirited personality. By the late 19th century, the Pom had become a favorite in both the show ring and as a companion dog.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Pomeranian in 1888, a testament to the breed’s growing popularity in the United States. Similarly, The Royal Kennel Club (UK) and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) have long recognized the breed, further solidifying its status as a dog of distinction in the canine world.

Throughout the 20th century, the Pomeranian continued to evolve and gain popularity. The breed has been owned and adored by historical figures and celebrities, adding to its allure and status. Notably, two Poms were among the few animal survivors of the Titanic, highlighting the breed’s presence in significant historical events.

The breed’s purpose has also shifted over time. From a robust working dog to a smaller-sized companion, the Pomeranian has adapted to changing societal tastes and needs. Today, these little and lively dogs are cherished for their commanding character, impressive intelligence, and affectionate nature, making them popular pets worldwide.

The Pomeranian’s history is a testament to the breed’s adaptability and enduring appeal. From working as a farmhand to achieving stardom as a royal lapdog (to stealing the hearts of millions), the Pomeranian has secured its place as a beloved breed in the pantheon of prototypical purebreds.

General Appearance

Height & Weight

A male Pomeranian usually stands about 7 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder, while an adult female typically measures slightly shorter.

The weight of a healthy adult Pomeranian ranges from 3 to 7 pounds, with the male generally being on the upper limits of this scale.

Proportion & Substance

The Pomeranian is a square breed with a short back, exhibiting a length-to-height body ratio of 1 to 1. This proportion gives the Pom a balanced and compact appearance, emphasizing the breed’s sturdy and robust build. The breed’s substance is attributed by medium bone and good muscle tone that contribute to its overall display of vim and vigor. Despite the breed’s small stature, a Pomeranian carries itself with great dignity and pride.

Coat Texture, Colors & Markings

Texture: The Pomeranian boasts a distinctive double coat that is one of its most recognizable features. The outer coat is long, straight, and harsh in texture, providing a beautiful, profuse appearance. The abundant outer coat forms a ruff around the neck, framing the head, extending over the shoulders and chest. The coat on the head and legs is shorter in length , thought he forelegs are well-feathered, and the thighs and hind legs for a skirt. The outer coat is complemented by a soft, dense undercoat, which adds significantly to the breed’s plush look. The combination of these two layers not only contributes to the breed’s striking silhouette, it also serves as protection in inclement weather. Trimming of the coat is often done for neatness, though too much can compromise the coat’s protective qualities.

Head

• Skull: The skull of the Pomeranian is slightly rounded, but not overly domed, and narrows slightly towards the muzzle, maintaining a delicate balance in proportion to the body.
• Expression: Alert and intelligent, the expression is one of the Pom’s most endearing traits. It is fox-like and reflects the breed’s lively and inquisitive nature.
• Eyes: The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark in color, adding to the breed’s keen and vivacious expression. They are set well apart and convey a bright and alert demeanor.
• Ears: Small and set high on the head, the ears are erect, contributing to its attentive and perky appearance.
• Muzzle: The muzzle is short, straight, and fine, but not so delicate as to appear weak or snipey. The ratio of muzzle length to length of skull is 1/3 to 2/3.
• Nose: The nose is typically black, but may be self-colored in beaver, blue, and chocolate dogs. It is small in size and rounded.
• Bite: The Pomeranian has a scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors and are set square within the jaws.

Tail

The tail of the Pomeranian is one of the breed’s most distinctive and defining features, significantly contributing to the breed’s silhouette and overall appearance. Set high and carried proudly, the tail lies flat and straight against the back. It is adorned with long, harsh, straight hair, giving it a profuse look that is an unmistakable breed characteristic.

Among Pomeranian breeders, the way the dog’s tail is carried is of paramount importance. It not only enhances the breed’s typical outline but also serves as an indicator of the dog’s spirited and vivacious nature.

The Pomeranian – What to Consider?

The Pomeranian, with its vibrant personality and luxurious coat, is a delightful breed that has captured the hearts of countless dog lovers. While the breed’s appeal is undeniable, owning a Pom comes with specific responsibilities and considerations. Prospective owners need to be aware of the breed’s unique needs to determine if a nurturing environment can be provided for the dog.

Pomeranian Health

Pomeranians are generally a hardy breed, but like all breeds and mixed breeds, they have certain health considerations that should not be overlooked. Prospective caretakers must understand these potential health issues and work closely with a reputable breeder and veterinarian to safeguard the Pom’s overall good health.

A Pomeranian typically enjoys a lifespan ranging from 12 to 16 years. With attentive care, regular health check-ups, and a well-balanced diet, many Poms live full and healthy lives, often reaching the upper end of this range.

Potential Health Risks

Despite the breed’s overall resilience, Pomeranians are susceptible to certain health conditions, including:

• Dental Issues: Due to the breed’s small jaws, Pomeranians are prone to dental overcrowding and other related issues. Regular dental care and check-ups are vital.
• Luxating Patella: This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap and is common in small breeds. It can vary in severity and may require surgical intervention in more serious cases.
• Tracheal Collapse: A not uncommon issue in small breeds, this is a condition where the tracheal rings collapse, leading to breathing difficulties. It can be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments.
• Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, affecting metabolism. It is treatable with medication.
• Alopecia X (Black Skin Disease): This condition leads to hair loss and skin darkening. While it’s primarily cosmetic, caretakers should be aware of it and ask breeders if it has been seen in their dogs.
• Heart Issues: Like many small breeds, Pomeranians may be prone to heart conditions, making regular cardiovascular check-ups important.

It is crucial to have regular veterinary check-ups to detect these and other potential health issues early. Wellness exams, including specific tests for knee stability, thyroid function, and heart health, play a critical role in maintaining the well-being of a Pomeranian.

Pomeranian Personality

Understanding the Pomeranian’s personality is key to fostering a harmonious relationship with this breed. Poms are known for their lively and playful nature, packed into a small but confident package. Their intelligence and alertness make them excellent companions, but these same traits mean they require proper socialization and training to help them develop into well-rounded adults.

Pomeranians are generally suitable for novice owners, as they are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. However, their intelligence and sometimes stubborn streak mean they benefit from consistent, patient training from an early age. Despite their small size, these dogs have big personalities and can develop “small dog syndrome” if not properly guided.

The Pom’s sensitivity level is relatively high, making these dogs very attuned to their environment and their human companions’ emotions. This sensitivity requires mindfulness in every interaction, since these small spitz can be easily affected by harsh words or actions.

Regarding being alone, Pomeranians can be prone to separation anxiety if left on their own for extended periods. They thrive on companionship and interaction, so they’re best-suited to homes where they won’t be alone for hours on end. Poms enjoy being the center of attention and can become vocal or destructive if they feel neglected.

In terms of getting along with other dogs and young children, Pomeranians can do well if socialized from an early age. However, due to their small size, interactions with larger dogs and very young children should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury. Poms generally have a friendly disposition, but they can be reserved or shy around strangers. This can be mitigated with proper socialization throughout the puppy’s first year.

Pomeranian Feeding & Nutrition

Feeding and nutrition are crucial aspects of caring for a Pomeranian. The breed’s small size, high energy levels, and dietary needs must be considered to maintain good health and vitality. It’s always important to tailor a dog’s diet to its life stage, size, and activity level.

For Pomeranian puppies, it’s essential to provide a diet that supports rapid growth and development. Puppies should be fed high-quality, small-breed puppy food, one that is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing small dogs. This food is usually higher in protein and essential nutrients to support their development.

Pom puppies typically eat more frequently than adults, usually three to four times a day. As they transition to adulthood, they should be switched to a diet that supports their growing energy levels. Adults typically do w